Upturned Nose Correction in Korea
Upturned Nose Correction in Korea: Techniques, Limits, and Realistic Outcomes
An upturned nose—often called a short nose or over-rotated nose—can make the nostrils overly visible and the nose appear short or pig-like from the front. In Korea, upturned nose correction is a specialized form of rhinoplasty that focuses on lengthening, de-rotation, and strong structural support, not just cosmetic refinement.
This guide explains why noses become upturned, how Korean surgeons correct them, and what results are realistically achievable.
What Is an Upturned Nose?
An upturned nose typically shows:
- Excessive nostril show from the front
- A short nasal length
- Over-rotated tip angle
- Weak tip support
It may be congenital or acquired after previous surgery.
Common Causes of an Upturned Nose
1. Congenital (Natural Anatomy)
- Short nasal septum
- Weak lower lateral cartilage
- Tight skin–soft tissue envelope
2. Failed or Over-Aggressive Rhinoplasty
- Excessive cartilage removal
- Over-rotation of the tip
- Implant contracture pulling the nose upward
- Poor scar tissue control
Upturned noses after surgery are among the most challenging revision cases.
Korean Surgical Approach to Upturned Nose Correction
Korean surgeons are well known for short-nose lengthening and reconstruction, especially in revision cases.
1. Structural Lengthening (Key Step)
Correction requires physically lengthening the nose, not just pushing the tip down.
This is achieved with:
- Septal extension grafts
- Rib cartilage (most reliable in severe cases)
- Strong fixation to resist scar contraction
Without lengthening, results are unstable.
2. Tip De-Rotation and Support
Surgeons carefully:
- Lower the tip angle
- Reposition and reinforce tip cartilage
- Restore natural nasal proportions
The goal is controlled de-rotation, not a droopy tip.
3. Cartilage-Based Reconstruction (Essential)
Upturned nose correction in Korea relies heavily on:
- Rib cartilage for strength and length
- Ear cartilage for contour and coverage
- Septal cartilage when available
Implants alone are not sufficient and often worsen contracture.
4. Scar Tissue Release (Revision Cases)
In post-surgical upturned noses:
- Tight scar tissue must be released
- Capsular contracture (from implants) is addressed
- Blood supply is carefully preserved
This step determines long-term success.
What Upturned Nose Correction Can and Cannot Do
✅ What It Can Do
- Reduce nostril show
- Lengthen the nose
- Normalize tip angle
- Improve facial balance
- Restore a natural side profile
❌ What It Cannot Do
- Create a long, dramatic nose instantly
- Ignore skin limitations
- Defy severe scarring without compromise
Results must respect skin elasticity and biology.
Recovery Timeline
Healing is longer than standard rhinoplasty, especially in revisions.
Typical timeline:
- 1–2 weeks: splint and major swelling
- 1–3 months: gradual shape improvement
- 6–12 months: continued length settling
- Up to 18 months: final stabilization
Swelling may temporarily exaggerate tip rotation early on—this is normal.
Common Mistakes in Upturned Nose Correction
❌ Trying to fix with fillers or threads
❌ Using implants to push length
❌ Over-tightening tip support
❌ Promising dramatic length without discussing limits
❌ Rushing revision surgery
These often lead to relapse or new deformities.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Upturned nose correction in Korea is suitable if you:
- Have visible nostril show or short nose
- Have had previous failed rhinoplasty
- Are open to cartilage (including rib) use
- Understand results are conservative but structural
- Value long-term stability over quick fixes
Why Korea Is Known for Short-Nose Correction
Korean surgeons have extensive experience with:
- Implant contracture correction
- Rib cartilage reconstruction
- Thick and thin skin management
- Complex revision rhinoplasty
This makes Korea a common destination for difficult upturned-nose revisions.
Final Thoughts
Upturned nose correction is not a simple cosmetic adjustment—it is a reconstructive procedure that requires lengthening, support, and scar control. In Korea, the most successful outcomes come from cartilage-based, structure-first techniques with conservative expectations.
When done properly, upturned nose correction restores:
- Natural proportions
- Reduced nostril show
- Stable, long-term results
Choosing a surgeon experienced specifically in
short-nose and revision rhinoplasty is the most important factor in achieving a safe, lasting improvement.




