Plastic Surgery Archives - Page 2 of 6 - ソウルガイドメディカル
Category

Plastic Surgery

Dec 07
4

Square Jaw Reduction: Procedure Steps, Recovery Time, Costs, and Much More

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Have you ever thought about getting square jaw reduction surgery? South Korea is the number one country in the world for this procedure. Seoul Guide Medical, the leading expert in the field of square jaw reduction, created this article to let you know everything you need to know about this procedure and whether it is right for you.

What Is Jaw Reduction Surgery?

Square jaw reduction surgery (part of V-line surgery), also known as mandibuloplasty or mandible reduction, is a procedure where a plastic surgeon permanently changes the shape of the lower jaw. This surgery is usually done to create a smaller jaw shape, a more curved jaw, and a smoother jawline. Because this surgery is done on the lower portion of the face, there are a lot of nerve endings and blood vessels in that area. Only an expert surgeon with vast experience should perform this procedure. The clinic that hosts this procedure must also have advanced medical and safety equipment that is not common in all clinics.

What the mandible jaw reduction entails differs from person to person and is predicated on their needs and wants. Some people want only their jaw to be done, whereas others could also be looking for chin reduction.

The goal of “V-line surgery” or “V-lining” is to make a face slimmer and create a balanced V-line. The amount of reduction you can get is determined by your wants and what is safely possible. It can be determined with a CT scan and computer analysis at the clinic. A V-shaped or smoother jawline can make a person look slimmer, younger, more symmetrical, and provide a softer look. 

There are two types of cuts that can be done when undergoing mandible jaw reduction. The first is called the shortcut, which goes from the back of the jaw bone to the middle of the jaw bone. The surgeon makes an incision from the inside of the mouth, designs on the bone, and then creates a diagonal cut and removes the measured amount needed with a handheld cutting tool. The jaw can then be smoothed out and shaped if needed.  No pins or plates are required. The doctor then sutures the area.

The other kind of cut is called the Long Cut. This goes from the back of the jaw bone to the front of the chin. It allows for the chin to be reduced on the sides and shaped.  Patients who get this kind of cut usually have an unbalanced, broad look to their chin that does not match the rest of their face and will not match the new look they are going for. Sutures will close the incision area once the excess bone material is removed and smoothed. No plates or screws are needed. 

At Seoul Guide Medical, we can provide you with the best plastic surgeons who have the utmost care for their patients. We have access to information that cannot be found online and know the systems of each of our partner clinics and how they work. We only choose the best surgeons and ensure you get the best chance of achieving your dream.

With both kinds of cuts, the skin and muscle must be pulled up and reattached to a better position. Because you will have less bone structure, there will be excess sagging if this is not done. 

Your Surgery Day Explained

Now that we explained the procedure in general, let’s move on to what you can expect during your visit to the clinic. Keep in mind that this is a description of the process in general, but it can vary from patient to patient. 

On Your Surgery Day

  1. The plastic surgeon will or would have already personally look(ed) at your bone structure and nerve endings using x-rays, CT-scan, and digital imaging scans. Their analysis will determine the maximum amount of bone that can be removed. You can then adjust that amount to your needs and wants. 
  2. You will go through detailed paperwork explaining your procedure(s) and sign a series of documents that explain everything about the process.
  3. Once you are ready and have gone to the washroom one last time before surgery, you will be taken to the surgical floor and prepared for surgery.
  4. This procedure requires general anesthesia, and thus you will have an anesthesiologist administering your anesthesia and monitoring you the entire time. You will fall asleep, and the surgery will begin. Because you are asleep, you will feel no pain during the procedure. 
  5. You will be woken up from the anesthesia and moved to a recovery room. You will usually stay there overnight, being monitored by nurses. This procedure is typically an inpatient one. We highly recommend staying overnight in the clinic for one night after the procedure.
  6. The next morning, the surgeon will come and check your condition and sign the papers for your discharge. You can then leave the clinic with the help of the SGM staff and go to your accommodations.
  7. You will need to come back to the clinic for regular checkups. We recommend staying in Seoul for a minimum of 14 days after this procedure and, if possible, 21 days. Please note: You may have a drain placed, which helps to gather excess blood. This is usually attached for 2-4 days, depending on your case.

Most patients do not get mandible jaw reduction alone. Most patients combining it with other V-line procedures to maximize their own symmetry. Common procedures done with square jaw reduction are buccal fat from the cheeks, zygoma reduction surgery, rhinoplasty, facial fat grafting, double chin liposuction, and thread lifting.

Recovery Time and Aftercare

As seen above, jaw reduction surgery is considered major surgery and there will be some side effects, such as:

  • Pain when you open your jaw or eat after surgery
  • Bruising, swelling, and inflammation after surgery
  • Headache (due to the anesthesia)
  • Nausea (due to anesthesia)

It’s essential to be aware of the risks and side effects. Still, you should also keep in mind that tens of thousands of these surgeries are performed in Korea each year, and there is no safer country in the world to do this surgery in.  Seoul Guide Medical is here to ensure you get the best treatment and care so you can focus on your recovery. 

You can usually turn to your daily activities after 2 – 3 weeks. Many patients in Korea go back to work after just a few days. After 1 – 2 weeks, you need to return for the stitches to be removed. The exact aftercare schedule changes from patient to patient. Still, it will involve antibiotic injections, medication, in-clinic cleanings and dressings, in-clinic laser light rejuvenation therapy, and more. 

After about 15 days, a large percentage of the swelling disappears, and you will look normal to others, but you will still think you are very swollen. After 3-4 works, 50-60 percent of the swelling has usually vanished. After three months, 85-95% of healing has occurred. By the six-month mark, you will be almost 100%, but internal healing can take up to 1 year to happen. 

Before and After Photos

Here are some before and after photos for you to have a clear view of what square jaw reduction surgery looks like on actual patients.

Is This For Me?

You are a great candidate for mandible jaw reduction (v-line) if:

  • You don’t like your square jaw
  • Your lower jaw is wide and round
  • Your jaw is longer or out of proportion to the rest of the face
  • You’d like a smoother look 
  • You’d like a smaller face

If you’ve read the options above, and you’ve said, “Yes, this is me,” then contact us at Seoul Guide Medical and let us help you get the look you are after.

Pre-Surgery Information

  • No drinking and no eating 8-12 hours before the surgery time. This could differ depending on the doctor’s recommendations
  • No vitamins, supplements, anti-inflammatory medicine for two weeks before surgery if possible
  • No smoking if possible, no drinking alcohol for at least three days before surgery
  • Try to eat healthy foods for as long as you can before surgery

On the day of the surgery, it is best to wear loose-fitting clothes, no jewelry, no makeup, no nail polish or fake nails, and no contact lenses.

The ultimate advice is to be as healthy as possible before the surgery. So, eating vegetables and fruits will improve your healing process as well. However, it’s best to discuss your food intake or diet with the doctor or the SGM staff since everyone is different. 

Costs

Determining a price for plastic surgery can be difficult since it depends on a few factors, such as the level of clinic, the doctor’s experience, the complexity of a specific case, whether it is a revision case or not, and the length of time of the surgery. 

With that being said, the price range for a square jaw reduction in Korea ranges from  5000 – 20000 USD. As you can see, this is a very big price range, and in most cases, you won’t be paying 20.000 USD. However, 20,000 USD may be a great price, it all depends on your case. In plastic surgery, you get what you pay for but we can make sure you are getting the best quality for your money.

Why choose SGM to help you? We have been doing this for over 10 years, already have all the information, have all the connections, are experts, have government licenses and approvals, and have a dedicated staff to make this daunting task easier on you. We are more than just translators, we are experts and can guide you from start to finish.

What About Additional Surgeries?

This procedure could be combined with other surgeries such as zygoma reduction, masseter muscle reduction, or genioplasty (chin reduction). It could be an option to gain the best and optimal results and better facial balance and symmetry. 

We want to discuss what works the best for you, together with you! Our staff works together with different plastic surgeons, and we will develop several treatment plans, so you can choose the best one that works for you.

Contact Information

If you have more questions, doubts, or want to get in touch with us, please do so at: 

Phone: +82-10-5920-5546

Email: [email protected]

Website at https://sgmnewcopy1.wpengine.com/contact

http://instagram.com/seoulguidemedical

http://facebook.com/seoulguidemedical

You are never alone with SGM.  

FAQ

Is Jaw Reduction Surgery Safe?

Every surgery comes with a few risks but through careful planning, exceptional plastic surgeons, and our staff we can limit the risks to a minimum. All of our plastic surgeons are government-licensed and create a safe operating environment through using CCTV. They are highly skilled and perform a lot of jaw reduction surgeries. 

Is Jaw Reduction Surgery Painful?

This procedure is done under general anesthesia so during the surgery you won’t feel any pain. Afterward, you can experience some pain, bruising, swelling, and inflammation but this is all normal since it’s major surgery. This will usually subside at 2-3 weeks, but it is all dependable on the complexity and severity of your case. 

Can You Eat After Jaw Surgery?

After any surgery, it’s important to eat and drink enough since this will help your healing process. Because you’ve had surgery on your jaw it’s important to only have a liquid or pureed diet until your jaw has healed or when your doctor says it’s okay to eat something hard again.

How Can I Heal The Fastest From Surgery?

At all times, it’s crucial you follow the rules and regulations of your doctor. They want you to have a speedy recovery and know everything there is to know about healing the fastest you can. However, there are a few ground rules such as:

  • Take enough rest. Sleeping is important so that your body can have all the rest it needs to recover. You might even feel more tired after your surgery, which is a sign to go to sleep and take some rest.
  • Eat vegetables, fruits and drink enough. Eating and drinking are important as it provides you with enough nutrition and gives you everything you need for a fast recovery.
  • Go for small and light walks. Although taking enough rest is a good thing, taking too much rest isn’t good either. Try to go on small walks since this will also help in your healing process. Do take in mind that you can’t exercise, so the walks should be short, about 5 minutes

Anything else that is suggested or given as advice by the doctor should be followed.

After Cutting The Jaw Bone, Won’t It Grow Back Again?

After cutting the jaw bone, it will not grow back again. Sometimes, after surgery it can look like the bone has grown back. This is however not true. What you may experience is that the muscles in the jaw have grown, due to other factors. If you want this to be reduced, you could be looking for masseter muscle reduction.

What Is V-Line Surgery?

It’s a type of jaw reduction surgery, often used to slim and contour the lower jaw. This surgery involves the angle of the jaw, the mandible bones, and the chin. 

Dec 06
4

Your Guide to Getting Zygoma Reduction in Korea

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Have you ever thought about reducing your cheekbones? There are many people just like you who have thought about reducing their cheekbones and have undergone plastic surgery to get the look they want. This article, created by the experts at Seoul Guide Medical, will explain in detail an overview of what cheekbone reduction entails.

What is the Zygomatic Bone?

The cheekbone, also known as the Zygomatic or Zygoma bone, determines a large part of the face. It shapes the face and therefore also determines the facial width. This bone can be reduced and shaped to create a smaller protrusion resulting in a more well-balanced look. South Korean plastic surgeons are the pioneers in this field and the experts in zygoma reduction.

Here are a few things you need to think of before packing your bags and coming to South Korea for zygoma reduction through Seoul Guide Medical.

What You Need to Know:

As mentioned above, the cheekbone is also known as the zygoma bone. This bone goes from the upper part of the cheek, below the eye, near the nose. Then it continues from the upper part of the cheek, below the eye to near the sideburn area.

The Surgery

With this surgery, there are a few steps the plastic surgeon will follow. However, each plastic surgeon has their own “handwriting” so it may differ slightly. Generally, the surgery will take about 1 hour to complete. Here is what you can expect by going through Seoul Guide Medical on your surgery day:

  1) Our expert SGM in clinic consultant will take you through a final consultation and the paperwork needed to get your surgery.

  2) You will enter the surgery area and undergo anesthesia. This means you will be asleep during the procedure and not feel pain. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia which requires fasting beforehand for 6-8 hours normally but this can change depending on the doctor’s methods. 

  3) The surgeon will make one incision inside the mouth and a second incision on skin, near the sideburn to provide access to the zygomatic bone (cheekbone). If the bone is simply cut vertically, only a small reduction is possible in facial width. To maximize your own body’s potential, expert surgeons can make two distinctive cuts. The first cut, near the nose area, can have High-L Osteotomy. This methods calculates the maximal malar projection (MMP), and then the most protruded part of the cheekbone can be reduced. This ensures a 30-9 degree wide area reduction of the cheekbone. By contrast, the Low-L Osteotomy method makes the cut or fracture on the bottom side of the zygoma allow thus only allowing a 45-90 degree lateral area reduction. The result of this method is a non-optimal reduction in the cheekbone.

The next cut the surgeon makes is near the ear and sideburn. If the cut is done in a diagonal manner, the most amount of protrusion reduction can occur. If the cut is done in a perpendicular manner, the reduction in facial width will be less. After each cut, the excess zygomatic bone will be removed and the remaining bone pushed inwards. 

  4) The cheekbone is reattached in desired place and fixated with screws to make it secured and so it can heal on its own. Drains are usually placed as to prevent excess fluid build-up. These will be removed the day after surgery. These screws won’t set off any metal detection alarms, such as those at the airport.

 

  5) The incisions are then closed with stitches and the healing process can begin.

 

This description can always change due to the patient’s needs. For this surgery, the bone needs to be double fixed and thus requires small screws with possible attaching plates. 

Screws and plates might sound scary but it’s for your own benefit. These processes help the cheekbone to heal correctly without causing permanent damage. Dissolving screws and plates can also be used in cases like this but there isn’t a lot of research done on it yet. Possible issues could be infection due to low degradation. If an infection occurs and it is too severe, the plates need to be removed or if there is no plate, internal damage could occur. Therefore, we recommend the standard titanium screws, because we know that they work. It has proven itself over time.

Low-L Osteotomy and High-L Osteotomy

As described in the previous steps, there are two main methods to reduce cheekbone projection from the front part near the nose. This area has the greatest impact on the reduction of facial width so we will explain it in a bit more detail here. 

There are 2 different kinds of cuts when it comes to this surgery. One is Low-L osteotomy, also known as Low-L, which is a cut at between 45-90 degrees. This is done by creating a cut towards the backside of the cheekbone’s highest point. However, an issue with this cut can be that there is not enough reduction and the change would be too small for the patient’s satisfaction. 

The method that is mostly preferred is the High-L Osteotomy, also known just as High-L, which is a cut at between 30-90 degrees. This is done by creating a cut towards the front of the cheekbone. This cut provides more volume to be reduced which can satisfy the patient the best. 

To put it simply: A Low-L cut will give you a small reduction and a High-L cut will give a bigger reduction.

After Surgery

Since cheekbone reduction is considered to be major surgery, there will be some side effects. You could experience the following things:

–      Bleeding

–      Infection

–      Anaesthesia risks

–      Hematoma and skin discoloration

–      Scarring

–      Pain

 

This is why choosing only the top team to perform your surgery is important and why Seoul Guide Medical exists. We are here to make sure you get the best doctors, the best team, and the best experience. Our recommended plastic surgeon will of course explain everything to you and have the utmost care for you as their patient. 

After the surgery, it is recommended not to exercise too strenuously for 1-2 months and only go on short walks. Walking is important for your recovery as it speeds it up. Staying in bed all day actually slows it down. Here is an outline of the recovery schedule that you can expect but it will differ a bit from person to person:

First, there is the day of the surgery. We will assist and be at your complete service to make this day as comfortable as possible. When you wake up after the surgery we will be there as well to help you with anything you might need.

Aftercare Visits

The day of the surgery and is now over and we’ll transfer to the aftercare visits. The first visit is already after 3 days. On this day they’ll disinfect the wound, check the process, and as an additional treatment will provide you with shampoo service. 

The next visit is a week after surgery where we will take you to the clinic again and APL or infrared management that helps cleanse and remove dead skin cells, regenerate skin and relieve swelling. 

The third visit is two weeks after the surgery. On this day the sutures will be removed, and the plastic surgeon will use RF radio frequency or ultrasonic treatment for healing and reducing the swelling.

After this, the visits get a lot less frequent. There should be periodic progress checks in the next 1 to 6 months, where the surgeon will perform a CT scan or X-ray to check on the internal healing process. 

The healing process is as followed. After 1-3 months 80% of the wounds have been healed. In this time period, you can return to your daily things. However, you should still be careful with the restrictions the doctor gave you beforehand, like no smoking, no swimming and if you practice boxing, don’t receive hits to the face or don’t box for the time being. 

After 6 months 95% of the wounds have been healed. However, things could still be sore and you should treat the area with care. You’re now halfway through the healing face and although 95% of the wounds have been healed, it still isn’t 100%. 

After 12 months 99% of the wounds have recovered. At this stage, internal healing will go at a much slower rate and it can take up to 1-2 years for full internal healing in some cases. Most cases will have recovered fully internally at this point. 

As for the swelling, after 1 month you will look normal to others but you’ll see some swelling. This swelling will be 80% gone by 3 months. From this time on, improvements in swelling will go slower. After 6 months all swelling should be gone and only internal healing is left. 

Before and After Photos

To get a better visual idea of what the surgery will do and how it’ll make your face look, here are some photos for you to visualize it better.

Is it for me?

First, it’s very important to know if this is something for you. If you’re not satisfied with your facial width because of the broadness of the cheekbones, then this procedure could be for you. Do note that the best individuals for this procedure are:

–      Individuals who have broad cheeks due to wide cheekbones

–      Individuals who have good overall health 

–      Individuals who are not satisfied with their facial width due to their “chubby” cheeks

–      Individuals that have realistic expectations of the results of the surgery 

The last point about having realistic expectations of the results of the surgery is very important. Often it is found that when people want to undergo surgery, they have an image in their mind of the end result. This however might not be realistic. When undergoing zygomatic reduction surgery, the plastic surgeon will cut into bone. In the face are a lot of nerves and blood vessels and other structures thus are limited to what the final result can be. The result has to be in balance with your other features and is limited by your own structures. You will be able to improve as much as you can improve so having realistic expectations is key.

What can I do before the surgery?

First, it’s important to remember that cheekbone reduction surgery or zygoma reduction is considered to be major surgery. This means that patients have to follow strict preparation instructions before they undergo surgery. This entails:

– No drinking or eating at least 6 hours before the start of the operation but some doctors prefer fasting to happen for longer periods

– No aspirin, anti-inflammatory, and herbal medication approximately 2 weeks before the scheduled operation

– No smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure if possible

– No alcoholic beverages 2 days before surgery

–          Stop taking vitamins for 1-2 weeks before the surgery according to the doctor’s recommendations

Seoul Guide Medical staff is here to assist

At Seoul Guide Medical we want you to have the best experience in plastic surgery done in Korea. Our excellent staff is here to help you with all your questions and with the journey you’re going to take.

We provide online consultation with our staff. They know everything there is to know about plastic surgery and can answer all of your questions. After this conversation, Seoul Guide Medical develops a treatment plan in collaboration with many specialists and gives you different options depending on your needs. You tell us what you want, and we’ll arrange everything. There’s no need for searching online and looking at dozens of skin clinics, we will do that for you! We have collaborations with only the best plastic surgeons and they are all government licensed, which means you’re in safe hands!

After you’ve chosen the best treatment plan for you, it’s time to come to Korea and we will be supporting and helping you in any way possible all the way up until the surgery day. So in short, we go with you to the clinic, help you with the paperwork and make sure you have the best and most comfortable trip to Korea. 

As mentioned earlier, we only choose the top professionals in their field, all of the doctors are government verified, and the clinics all use CCTV which makes it a safe area to perform. 

In summary, our Seoul Guide Medical staff will take care of you before you come, while you’re in Korea and always be here for you in the future. 

How much will it cost?

The price range is difficult to determine since there are a lot of factors that all play a role. These are things like the level of clinic, the difficulty of the case and the length, time of the surgery, and the level of doctor within the clinic. For example: is the doctor a specialist? How much experience does he have? How often do they perform the procedure? We at Seoul Guide Medical check all of this and all of the doctors are SGM-verified.

With this being said, and mentioning again that all of these factors play a role in the price range, the price range for Zygomatic reduction surgery is around 4000 USD  to 9000 USD. Paying the most expensive price is not always necessary but it depends on your case.  Similarly, expert doctors will not want to do surgeries at the lowest pricing points since they are in demand and their schedules are full. The exact pricing point is best determined by going through a Seoul Guide Medical full consultation and getting a customized treatment plan. 

What’s next?

If you’re ready to come to Korea and create a smaller face by using our services, contact us at Seoul Guide Medical.

Our experts are waiting to help you out and give you the best experience in plastic surgery in Korea!

If you would like to come to Korea for plastic surgery, skin care, laser eye surgery, hair transplantation, dentistry, or other medical procedures, contact us for a free consultation at:

Or by calling/texting us on:

Phone (WhatsApp/Kakao/Line): +82-10-5920-5546 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-7pm, Sat 10am-2pm Seoul time.

FAQ

Will the metal screws and plate in the Zygomatic bone be seen when going to security at the airport?

How long does it take for a cheekbone to heal?

Even with the screws (and plates) in place it still takes about 6 weeks to heal completely. During this period it’s important to be careful to avoid an injury to this area of your face as it may cause the cheekbone to move out of position.

Does it hurt to have cheekbone reduction surgery?

According to plastic surgeons, cheekbone reduction surgery can be experienced with a minimal amount of pain. At Seoul Guide Medical we’re happy to help if you have any concerns.

If I get cheekbone reduction surgery, will I get sagging cheeks?

For those people who experience sagging skin easily, such as who has less elasticity in their skin, the doctor can perform a skin tightening technique where an anchoring system is placed on the inside, towards the nose, of the screws and plate. This will make sure the skin keeps its tightness.

What can I eat after cheekbone surgery?

The incisions will also be on the inside of your mouth, therefore it could be best to avoid hard and sharp foods, like chips or candy. Try to eat soft food such as rice porridge or soups.

How can I heal faster after plastic surgery?

To heal the fastest you should: Take all medication the doctor prescribed Walking is a great way to speed up your recovery Maintain a healthy diet. Include lots of fruit and vegetables. Although walking is great, taking enough rest is important as well Follow-up appointment. If you follow these and maybe additional things you’re doctor has said, you’ll heal in the best and fastest way possible.

Who is not a good candidate for cheekbone reduction surgery?

What are additional surgeries that can go well with this surgery?

Nose Plastic Surgery in Korea

Plastic Surgery in Korea

Contact Us
May 18
1

Getting Rhinoplasty Surgery in Korea 2021

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Since the beginning of COVID19, many markets have struggled, and medical tourism is no exception. Though South Korea boasts one of the most successful markets for plastic surgery, mainly plastic surgery clinics in Seoul, it has also had a drastic decline in foreign patients due to the closing of borders and quarantine restrictions implemented to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Previously, some of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries and procedures included anti-aging, face contouring, breast surgery, and of course, rhinoplasty. Korean plastic surgery holds an international standard with competitive pricing, especially compared to the United States prices. This makes traveling to Korea for rhinoplasty an enticing idea for many. However, the global pandemic halted the plans of a large majority of people who had started taking steps towards realizing this goal. Thankfully, most recently, the Korean government has begun talking about lessening quarantine restrictions, which is a positive sign for potentially starting to open borders up again soon. Here are some guidelines for what to expect when getting rhinoplasty in South Korea if you are a preemptive planner.

The Basics

Rhinoplasty, which is also often referred to as a ‘nose job,’ is altering the nose structure and shape. The main goal of any nose job is to balance all individual parts of the nose and the face. In the past years, this procedure has shifted its focus more so on augmenting parts of the nose that lacked to achieve said balance, as opposed to changing the natural anatomy of the nose and risk potential side effects later on. This surgical procedure has two different approaches: ‘open’ or ‘closed surgery.

Open (external)

-As stated, the main goal of this procedure has shifted to cartilage preservation and small changes to the structure of the nose. Plastic surgeons will create a small cut on the column between both nostrils, referred to as the columella. Though the scar is created exteriorly, most of the scars left behind are quite discrete if not entirely inconspicuous. This gives plastic surgeons the clearest view of your nose structure, therefore generally allowing for the most favorable results to be achieved. This method is most always used for any secondary or more nose jobs. Some steps you might expect during a successful open rhinoplasty include:

  1. Opening the nose
  2. Septoplasty
  3. Dorsal hump reduction
  4. Spreader grafts or flaps
  5. Nasal base stabilization
  6. Nasal tip contouring
  7. Dorsal augmentation
  8. Alar rim grafts
  9. Alar base reduction
  10. Osteotomies
  11. Closure
  12. Taping and casting

Closed (internal)

-Plastic surgeons will create the cut inside the nose, which means all scars will be hidden. This method is mostly only available as an option to people getting their primary rhinoplasty, meaning their first. As mentioned, the focus is on the retention of as much of the original structure as possible. Some steps you may expect in this procedure include:

  1. Creating the cut inside the nose
  2. Hump removal
  3. Osteotomies
  4. Tip modification
  5. Septoplasty
  6. Turbinate reduction
  7. Closing
  8. Taping and Casting

Revision Rhinoplasty

This is for anyone who has already had a primary rhinoplasty as is receiving a second or more. This sort of rhinoplasty is significantly more tedious than an initial rhinoplasty. There is always some uncertainty about what the previous surgeon did and the next steps that will need to be taken to correct them. This is also why open (external) rhinoplasty is virtually mandatory for patients with more than one surgery. This allows the surgeon to see what the previous surgeon did and what they can do to correct it. 

Secondary rhinoplasty is generally only done to correct previous mistakes the plastic surgeons made structurally or aesthetically or to correct breathing problems. Typically a second nose job will focus on augmenting; therefore, grafts from the ribs or ear will probably need to be taken and used to create that structure.

Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty

This is often referred to as a liquid nose job, as it only involves fillers. The standard fillers used are Hyaluronic acid (HA) or calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHa). These are used for subtle changes in the nose without any surgery or in combination with a procedure (post-surgery is best). These have the advantage of being cost-efficient, offering minimal downtime, and being dissolvable if you do not like the results. However, there are some things to consider, such as the fact that they are not permanent, so they will require continued injections and some dangerous side effects if not performed by an experienced surgeon, such as blindness or tissue death at the injection site. If you are looking for significant reconstruction of the nose, surgery is still the best method, as too much filler to try to imitate the results of surgery can put you at a higher risk for these problems. 

If you are looking for clinics or medical facilities to begin your journey with, it is highly recommended to reach out to clinics through their online consultations. These should be free and a great way to accumulate any information you might need before making any final decisions. If it is not free, that is a big red flag to stay away. It’s never too soon to start planning for a decision that may make a world of difference to you and your daily life.

FAQ

Is Korea good for rhinoplasty?

Korea is commonly referred to as the plastic surgery capital of the world and has lived up to the reputation since stepping into the spotlight a few decades ago. It offers some of the most highly skilled plastic surgeons, who not only have perfected the skills necessary to perform the perfect rhinoplasty but who have even improved upon current methods. It has also created a medical tourism market that is easy to navigate, so it’s painless and minimum effort from you when you do come here.

Is Nose plastic surgery cheaper in Korea?

Yes! You can expect the range of prices to sit anywhere from $3,500-$4,500 for a simple, first-time operation, which may increase up to $10,000 for more complex surgeries. This is quite favorable, considering in the USA, the starting price for a simple, first-time operation tends to be about $5,000- $10,000.

May 04
0

Plastic Surgery in Korea 2021

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

The world has been on lockdown due to Coronavirus for over a year now, which means any travel plans had to be postponed. This was most unfortunate for people who were considering coming to Korea to have a medical procedure completed. Though Korea has been one of the countries that handled COVID-19 the most effectively and efficiently, it does not mean it has been able to eradicate the virus entirely. Additionally, to keep the virus under control, it has had to create many restrictive regulations such as:

 

  1. Keeping gatherings under four people.
  2. Establishments such as bars and restaurants all closing by 10 PM (though delivery is still available afterward).
  3. Fines for anyone caught not wearing a mask.
  4. Social distancing of 2 meters (particularly in schools, restaurants, cafes, etc.).
  5. Whenever there is a rise in cases or a local one (such as in a school), a temporary online ‘lifestyle’ is required with self-quarantine and an immediate Corona test. 
  6. Pop-up testing centers around the country, particularly in the cities, to prevent infected people from coming in contact with others and overloading the hospitals.
  7. A mandatory 2-week quarantine for anyone coming back into Korea (regardless of nationality) at home or in a government facility if visiting (paid for by yourself).

 

These are some of the regulations that have been instated in the past year to control and limit infection rates. Therefore, these are regulations to keep in mind if you are still planning to make the trip this year, as most incur a heavy fine if they are broken. If you are planning to come to Korea this year, as of now, some things to expect include:

  1. Temperature screening and filling out a Health Questionnaire at the airport.
  2. 2-week mandatory quarantine in your Korean home (for nationals or foreign national residents) or a government facility for short-term visitors or if a national’s home is considered ‘unfit,’ that will have to be paid for by yourself.
    1. Generally, costs about KRW 1,680,000 per person (~$1,600).
    2. Housing will be random and cannot be changed nor chosen.
    3. You will be escorted from the airport to your 14-day housing. 
  3. Must have a negative result on the COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to coming to Korea. 
  4. Re-testing for Coronavirus within three days of your arrival, during quarantine, regardless of having been tested before arriving in Korea.
    1. Visitors will be tested automatically at their quarantine facility. 
    2. Residents must go by foot to the nearest public test center. 
    3. Usage of public transportation is not allowed.
  5. Downloading an app ‘Self Diagnosis’ and updating it twice daily with any symptoms and a daily call from the KCDC.

If, for some reason, you do test positive once you are in Korea, you will be responsible for some, if not the whole, cost of expenses related to Covid-19. 

  1. Some costs:
    1. If you are visiting short-term, The Government of the Republic of Korea will cover costs related to (a) test and (b) the use of isolation facility, whereas individuals will bear costs related to (a) treatment and (b) food, among others.
    2. Long-term visitors (Alien Registration Cardholders) will have similar payments as short-term. However, due to the mandatory health coverage that long-term residents must-have, the individual cost will be decreased to about 20% of what a short-term resident would pay individually.
  2. Full costs:
    1. If you contracted the virus due to breaking quarantine or the regulations stated previously, submitting a false PCR test, etc., you would be 100% responsible for all costs.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to come to Korea insured or to be insured here prior to arrival. If, when coming to Korea, you do not comply with the quarantine guidelines, you may face up to 1 year of imprisonment or a KRW 10 million fine for violating the Quarantine Act and Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. According to the Immigration Act, foreign nationals violating the regulations may face deportation or a ban on entry into Korea.

‘How can I be exempted from quarantine?’ may be a question you are asking yourself now. However, as of now, there are only a few options, being someone who holds an A1 (Diplomat) or an A2 (Government official) visa or a Quarantine Exemption Certificate that the Korean Embassy or Consulate-General issued prior to the entry. However, there is good news for long-term residents in Korea. Recently, the Korean government announced that if you are fully vaccinated in Korea, the quarantine regulations will be waived beginning May 5th, 2021. 

Overall, suppose you had or have been looking at Korea as an option for plastic surgery due to the quality offered here, as well as reasonable pricing. In that case, quarantine restrictions may be a factor to add to your expenses. If you can comfortably meet quarantine regulations, getting a procedure in Korea is generally painless. Companies offer packages to help combine all costs and translators, so your experience is as comfortable as possible. You will also be able to enjoy Korea as you spend a week or two in Korea for recovery purposes as most places are running as regular aside from 10 PM curfews. As Corona cases fluctuate, so do the regulations. Make sure to stay up to date on the current rules if you make the conscientious decision to visit to make your stay here as enjoyable as possible. 

Jan 18
2

Nose Job in Korea – Guide to Nose Plastic Surgery in Korea

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

The nose is a major part of our everyday life, both aesthetically and functionally. The nose makes up about 1/3 of the face and plays a significant role in how symmetric someone’s face appears overall. It also enables us to breathe comfortably and have things like a good night’s rest. It can become an area of fixation for someone who dislikes their nose and cause insecurity, as well as cause physical discomfort if it is not functioning properly. If you feel that your nose has been hindering you or holding you back, considering a nose job also known as Rhinoplasty may be an appealing solution for you.

What is a Nose Job?

This is considered an ‘umbrella name’ for a variety of operations that involve changing the nose shape, meaning it is not specific to one kind of surgery, but any that include operating on the nose. There are two main ways to categorize most nose jobs, being either cosmetic or functional. Cosmetic procedures are those that are done simply because you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your nose, and would like to change it, but the nose functions as usual. Functional procedures are those that are done because the nose does not work correctly, which can cause issues, particularly when breathing. 

Functional procedures can often be combined with cosmetic procedures. Often, when correcting a functional issue, a more preferred nose shape is also achieved. Once this distinction has been made, there are a variety of procedures that you can choose from for a nose job, which will be discussed further along. However, often when people are referring to nose jobs, they usually are referring to rhinoplasty, which will also be addressed. 

Surgery in Korea in Korea

A quick discussion about plastic surgery throughout history quickly shows how South Korea came to be recognized as the plastic surgery capital of the world. Beginning with the first World War, the field of plastic surgery came to be invented by a man named Harold Gillies. He created the field by helping to reconstruct the faces of soldiers who had suffered from the war. He was, however, limited since, at the time, Europe didn’t see the field as ‘necessary.’ Later, he took on an apprentice named Ralph Millard, who took over as a successor of the field by the second World War.

This all is relevant because later, Millard came to South Korea for the Korean War. Due to the limited restrictions, he was able to innovate many of the techniques practiced today on soldiers who had been disfigured at the time. Since then, plastic surgery exploded throughout South Korea, and often the country has been trendsetting in different methods used nowadays. 

Surgical vs. Non-surgical Nose Job

1) Surgical Nose plastic Surgery

a)  This method has two main approaches that used to be somewhat of a debate, but lately, there have been efforts in the scientific community to ‘simplify’ rhinoplasty. The general idea is to simplify the process to reduce the need for revision cases later, as there has been a noticeable trend in the rise of revision cases with the more options being introduced. Therefore, the two main incision site approaches are:

    1. Open (transcolumellar) 
      1. This has been the approach that most surgeons have begun leaning towards in efforts to simplify the procedure. This is because it allows full view and access to the structures inside the nose. This enables the surgeon to see all options and the best approach for each nose, particularly in more complicated cases or revision cases. However, the incision site is located on the bottom of the nose, on the column that separates the two airways. A scar may be left, though this is unlikely, and it would be virtually invisible once recovered, as seen below. 

how nose job done

 

      2. Closed (endonasal)

          1. This method is becoming less frequently used due to the difficulty the plastic surgeon has viewing the structures of the nose. Therefore, if this method is used, it is generally used for more uncomplicated cases. An advantage of this method is the fact that all incisions are made inside of the nose, so that no scars will be visible.

       

      b) The main issues that are addressed with surgical nose jobs are a dorsal hump, a wide tip, or a crooked nose.

2) Non-Surgical Nose Plastic Surgery

b) This method is something to consider if you are someone who does not want to have surgery, is worried about the expenses of operation, or is unsure about fully committing to a procedure. It involves no downtime, as no actual surgery is performed. It is important to mention that this method will not reduce the size of your nose. Still, it can address problems such as humps or adding volume, and often addressing these issues has the effect of seeming to reduce the size of the nose due to the increased symmetry. 

Liquid rhinoplasty is an option in which a filler is injected into the site that needs to be smoothed out or have volume added in. The main downside of this treatment is that it is not permanent; therefore, you will need maintenance treatments to keep your results.

Nose Plastic Surgery Procedure

This varies between surgical and non-surgical, but both will be addressed below.

1) Surgical

a) A benefit to the surgical method is the ability to use devices such as grafts, which help create a more defined nose. Examples of grafts include alloplasts, homografts, and autografts. Each come with their share of advantages and disadvantages, but it is found the least likely to cause complications are autografts.  

    1. Open
      1. This procedure generally takes longer since most operations involving this method are more complicated.
      2. The surgeon will cut along the columellar, as well as the inside of the nostrils, as shown below.
      3. Then skin and muscle will be pulled back to allow a full view of the structures.
      4. Depending on what procedure(s) you chose, the plastic surgeon will continue with the procedure at his discretion. 
      5. The nose will be wrapped in a splint to protect it until it is less likely to move from the chosen position.

            2. Closed

    1. This method is used for more straightforward procedures; therefore, it generally takes less time to perform. 
    2. The surgeon will create incisions inside of the nose on the columellar, as shown below.
    3. They will then proceed with the procedure(s) at their discretion.
    4. The nose will be wrapped in a splint to prevent it from moving.

closed nose job in Korea

1) Non-Surgical

a) Liquid rhinoplasty

    1. No anesthesia is required; however, local anesthesia is available at the patients’ request.
    2. The total time is 15-20 minutes.
    3. The area will be sterilized to avoid any infection, and then the surgeon will inject the filler of your choice until the desired shape and volume is achieved. 

Nose Job Recovery

1) Surgical

Immediately after surgery, expect the nose and parts of the face to experience swelling and bruising, particularly underneath the eyes. It is also not uncommon to experience uneven swelling in different parts of the face. It is essential to ice the area for the initial days after surgery, as well as sleeping with the head elevated to help with drainage and swelling. 

The swelling and bruising should have largely decreased by the end of the first month; however, there may be some residual swelling for a couple of months afterwards. Therefore, you should be attending all scheduled appointments to make sure the nose is healing correctly. You should also be cautious of touching or any rough movements such as blowing the nose or sneezing. Final results should become visible anywhere from 6 months to a year after the procedure. 

2) Non-surgical

There is virtually nothing that you need to do, and results should be mostly visible immediately after surgery, however the nose may set some more after the injections. Maintenance treatments should be done every 4-6 weeks. 

Nose Job Before and After

1) Surgical

With this procedure, any issues dealing with the nose can be addressed, particularly if it involves functionality issues, revision, complex first procedures, or any sort of minimizing of an area of the nose. 

 

2) Non-Surgical

This is a reminder that though results are commendable, this will not be able to decrease the size of the nose, only help smoothen it.

 

A nose job can be an excellent solution for you if you are dealing with both, or either, a cosmetic or functional issue. The best method between surgical and non-surgical can be chosen between you and your surgeon of choice. However, it is still crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with plenty of experience in this field. If you are feeling ready to change your nose for the better, feel free to schedule a free consultation with a plastic surgeon through companies like Seoul Guide Medical, who can put you in contact with the top surgeons in South Korea.

FAQ

What types of nose jobs are there?

This is discussed in the article more in-depth, but the two main ways to separate nose jobs are if they are aesthetic or functional. From there, factors such as surgical or non-surgical, open or closed surgery, and if grafts will be needed.

Where to get my nose job?

The main priority should always be finding a board-certified plastic surgeon with plenty of experience in procedures of the nose. Getting plastic surgery in Korea is something worth considering. Due to the high volume of plastic surgery procedures performed in South Korea, specifically of the nose, it is likely that your goals of a nose job will be successfully achieved here.

Nose Plastic Surgery in Korea

Plastic Surgery in Korea

Contact Us
Dec 03
1
Revision rhinoplasty

Revision Rhinoplasty: What You Need to Know About Getting a Revision Rhinoplasty

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Revision rhinoplasty is commonly done in a lot of people more than we know. Plastic surgery procedures like rhinoplasty can be done by preference, but there are times when we either pick the wrong hands to perform the procedure or experience unforeseen issues. Since the nose is at the center of the face and is easily visible, no one wants it to look misshapen and in disharmony with the other features of the face. For problems that arise after a primary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty is the best solution.

Revision rhinoplasty

What is a Revision Rhinoplasty?

According to an article in the Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology, 5-15% of individuals who underwent a rhinoplasty procedure also had a revision rhinoplasty. Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct the function and appearance of the nose due to healing complications, failure to fix the nasal structure properly, and mishandling after undergoing a primary rhinoplasty. This revision surgery is known to be the most challenging and complex among all facial plastic surgeries. This is because it is demanding both technically and artistically. It also requires excellent precision and proper techniques since the nose has already been altered previously with bones, cartilages, and tissues removed and replaced. This means that to be able to restore the nose to its proper function and recreate the original appearance, grafts, and rearranging of the nasal structure is inevitable.

Reasons for Revision Rhinoplasty

Unlike other plastic surgery procedures, a person cannot decide to have a revision rhinoplasty just because he or she wants to. Before the process, a thorough examination by the doctor is done to determine if the person needs a revision rhinoplasty or some other treatment. Individuals are only qualified for the procedure if the first rhinoplasty resulted in the following reasons:

  • An imbalance in the nasal structure
  • Disharmony of the nose with other facial features
  • Obstruction of the nasal airway
  • Cartilage or bone collapse
  • An overdone appearance of the nose
  • An asymmetrical nose
  • Over reduction or inadequate reduction
  • Excessive or inadequate projection of the nasal tip
  • A pinched tip
  • Thickened scar tissue inside the nose
  • Collapse of the external and internal nasal valve

Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure

Every revision rhinoplasty procedure is highly customized based on the patient’s functional and cosmetic goal, needs, and case. Since the operation is considered as an invasive one, general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation is used for pain management during the surgery. The revision can take around 3-4.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the patient’s case. The following are the steps done during a revision rhinoplasty:

  1. Depending on the revision needed, this procedure can be done through a closed or open rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty (incisions inside the nose) is much preferred for minor corrections. On the other hand, open rhinoplasty (incisions under the nasal tip along the columella) is best for more complicated cases wherein significant parts of the nasal structure needs to be altered.
  2. Once the incisions have been created, the surgeon then does the needed revision to restore proper function and appearance to the nose.
  3. If bone and cartilage have collapsed or have been removed previously, the surgeon will take cartilage from the ear or rib to restore the nasal structure.
  4. When revisions and adjustments have been made, they will redrape the skin on the nose (if open rhinoplasty) and close the incisions using sutures. A splint is then placed on the nose for support and protection.

Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery

Following a revision rhinoplasty, your nose will be swelling and bruising at the same time. You will also be wearing a nose splint that serves protection for your nose as well as a support for its new shape. During this time, you should avoid any strenuous activity and contact sport until you are permitted by the doctor. You should also make sure to elevate your head when resting and use an ice pack to aid with the swelling. The doctor will most probably give you medication for pain to ease discomfort and antibiotics to prevent infection from occurring. Most patients are recommended to take two to three weeks leave from work so that healing could progress quickly because of proper rest. The nose will continue to heal, and you will be able to see significant improvements at around six months. However, it may take a year for full recovery and results to complete.

Revision Rhinoplasty Before and After

When done by a well-experienced and knowledgeable plastic surgeon, a revision rhinoplasty can be life-changing. As seen in the before and after pictures below, the patients’ noses have significantly improved, and the results look promising. From an asymmetrical and flat-looking nose to a more harmonious and ideal nasal shape and appearance.

Correcting a failed rhinoplasty procedure is more common than you think. Through the surgical procedure, the nose’s function and appearance are restored to help the patient become more comfortable again with his or her nose. There are a lot of reasons why revision rhinoplasty is performed, and some of those are imbalance in the nasal structure, cartilage collapse, overdone appearance, and thickened scar tissue. The procedure may involve an open or close rhinoplasty, depending on the patient’s case, as well as the use of cartilage taken from the ear or the rib. The recovery is quite the same as the recovery for a primary rhinoplasty or may take even longer. There will also be swelling and bruising and the results will be visible within six months to a year.

Since a revision rhinoplasty is much more complicated than a primary one, the plastic surgeon’s skill, knowledge, and experience are a huge factor in ensuring the success of the procedure. If you need a revision rhinoplasty, the best option is to contact Seoul Guide Medical through their website. They will be the ones to determine which plastic surgeon and clinic in Korea are best for your case. This will not only save you time in looking for a trustworthy surgeon but will also prevent you from having more revisions in the future.

FAQ :

When should you get revision rhinoplasty after your first rhinoplasty?

Usually, it is recommended that a revision rhinoplasty be done until healing and softening of tissues has been completed, which is within 12 months. This is because it takes a year for the nose to heal after getting rhinoplasty, and while it is healing, it continually changes and improves. Something that may be bothersome about your new nose may fade within the 12 months. However, for severe cases of complications and failed rhinoplasty, the revision may be done within four to six months after primary surgery.

Are the results of a revision rhinoplasty permanent?

After undergoing revision rhinoplasty, expect that the results will be permanent and can last for a lifetime. If the patient is still unsatisfied with the revisions, or if complications arise, further revision surgeries may also be possible. This is why having a board-certified plastic surgeon who can guide the patient correctly and help manage expectations and goals is essential to make sure that a third revision will be prevented.

For whom is a revision rhinoplasty most recommended?

Revision rhinoplasty is most recommended for someone who has undergone a primary rhinoplasty, which resulted in dissatisfaction due to cosmetic or functional issues. Individuals who are qualified for the procedure are the following:

  • Those who are in excellent health
  • Those who have realistic expectations
  • Those who want to restore the function and appearance of their nose
  • Those who are unsatisfied with the results of their primary rhinoplasty
  • Those whose septum became crooked after the primary surgery
  • Those who experience external valve collapse
  • Those who had complications during the recovery period
  • Those whose goals were not met

Sep 14
2
Lower Blepharoplasty procedure

Lower Blepharoplasty: Things You Need to Know About Lower Eye Blepharoplasty

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Lower blepharoplasty can be the answer to a problem many people feel they suffer from, under-eye bags. This procedure has risen in popularity due to the anti-aging benefits it brings. Since the eye area is known to have the thinnest skin in our body, it usually exhibits the first signs of aging. Having sagged and puffy lower eyelids can convey the wrong emotions. It can also show inaccurate physical condition by making you look tired and fatigued even though you had enough rest. Through a lower blepharoplasty surgery, your under eyelids are not only restored in appearance but also in their functionality. 

Lower Blepharoplasty surgery

What is Lower Blepharoplasty?

A lower eyelid blepharoplasty, or otherwise called lower eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that is responsible for rejuvenating the lower eyelid. The procedure is responsible for improving the shape, function, and position through the means of skin, muscle, and fat removal. Anyone who is facing problems regarding their lower eyelids can undergo the procedure, especially if the cause is genetics. This treatment can be performed due to the following reasons: 

  • To restore youthfulness to the under-eye area 
  • To enhance the symmetry of asymmetrical lower eyelids 
  • To tighten the lower eyelid in conjunct with other lower eyelid procedures 
  • To protect the eyes from dryness and other nerve paralysis problems 

Benefits of Lower Blepharoplasty

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, blepharoplasty was among the top cosmetic procedures done in the US in 2018. This would not have been possible if not for the benefits that the procedure can offer. Some of the benefits include the following:

  • It restores the youthfulness of the eyes as well as the face as a whole
  • It lessens or eliminates the look of fatigue allowing you to look healthier 
  • Enhances the elasticity of the skin in the lower eyelid 
  • Removes wrinkles and excess lower eyelid skin
  • Increase in self-confidence
  • Gets rid of puffiness and dark circles in the under-eye

 

Lower Blepharoplasty procedure

Lower blepharoplasty procedures are performed in the duration of 45 minutes to an hour. Depending on the patient’s case, the procedure can be paired with another eyelid treatment. It is common for lower eyelid surgery to be paired with upper eyelid surgery since when both are done together, it maintains the symmetry of the eyes. Local anesthesia is used for this surgery, and the patient is required to stay in the clinic for about 1-1.5 hours after the procedure for additional after-treatment medications and observation. It takes 3-4 weeks for the surgery area to look normal, while the full set will take place within 6-9 months from the day of the surgery. Below are the steps of a lower blepharoplasty surgery:

Lower Blepharoplasty procedure
  1. Your doctor will first show you the possible results of the procedure, taking into consideration the degree of sagging and shape of the lower eyelid fat.
  2. They then create a line or grid on your lower eyelid, which will serve as a guide throughout the procedure.
  3. They then make an incision inside the lower eyelid to gain access to the underlying fats and muscles.
  4. Once they have created the incisions, the doctor will start removing the excess fats.  
  5. If there is excess skin, they remove this as well to make sure that the remaining skin has good elasticity and will not sag sooner than expected.
  6. When all excess fats and skins have been eliminated or repositioned, they will stitch the incisions making sure that the lower eyelid skin is tightened. This results in a more youthful looking under the eye.

Lower Blepharoplasty Recovery

Right after the procedure and for one to two weeks, you may experience swelling, bruising, soreness, and tightness in your lower eyelid. You may or may not have a bandage in your eyes because of the new techniques’ plastic surgeons use that eliminates the need for an eye bandage after you have the surgery. If you are experiencing pain, inform your doctor so that they can prescribe you with oral pain medication to ease the discomfort. Before you leave the clinic or hospital, they will also teach you the proper way of applying a cold compress to your eye area to ease swelling. You will also be given eye drops, which you will administer several times a day. Other instructions your doctor may give you which you should strictly follow are: 

  • Looking after yourself by eating a well-balanced diet and getting adequate rest while you are recovering 
  • Avoid strenuous activities while your lower eyelid is still healing 
  • Clean and protect your incisions based on your doctor’s instructions 
  • Sleep with your head elevated 
  • Protect your lower eyelids by using sunscreen and dark sunglasses when you know you are going to be exposed to the sun 
  • Avoid bending for four weeks after you had the surgery to prevent a sudden increase in blood supply to your face
  • Maintain a healthy and stable weight by eating right and getting enough exercise once your eyelids have completely healed

Lower Blepharoplasty Before and After

Undergoing a lower blepharoplasty can be life-changing because of the boost in self-esteem that it brings. Its results are guaranteed to make the under eyelids smoother, and more youthful. It can also restore elasticity to the eyelid skin, which can last long with proper care. From the pictures of the patients in the before and after pictures below, it is evident that a lower blepharoplasty has fixed their problems with their under-eye bags and dark circles. You could also see that this procedure is not only meant for individuals who are in their prime age but can also be performed on younger patients. 

  Lower blepharoplasty is an anti-aging cosmetic procedure that can rejuvenate the lower eyelids and the under-eye area. It is not only for people in their forties or older but also for those who are younger. The most noteworthy benefits you can get from this procedure is that it can improve your self-esteem and make you look youthful at the same time. The procedure may be a bit invasive, and the recovery can take a month, but the results are promising for someone who has been struggling with the appearance of their lower eyelids.  For a stress-free, successful, and safe lower blepharoplasty surgery, make sure that you have it performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who has had many experiences with blepharoplasty procedures. For the top clinics and doctors in South Korea, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical through our website and let us be a part of your journey to a better appearance. 

FAQ :

For whom is Lower Blepharoplasty most recommended?

A lower blepharoplasty procedure can be done on anyone who is having appearance and functionality issues with their lower eyelids. To be specific, the following are those who are mostly recommended to have the procedure: Those who look tired and fatigued because of the unappealing appearance of the under-eye Those who have puffy under eyes Those who think they look older because of puffiness under the eyes Those whose self-esteem is being dragged down because of their under-eye appearance Those who are healthy mentally and physically with no medical conditions that may hinder proper healing. Those who are non-smokers or are willing to quit smoking before and after the procedure Those individuals who have a positive outlook and realistic goals Those individuals who do not have severe eye conditions that may cause complications during and after treatment

How long does Lower Blepharoplasty last?

Lower eyelid surgery is one of those rewarding eye treatments that, when done by a certified plastic surgeon, and followed with proper care, can last for a long time. While the aging process continues, no matter what treatment you undergo, your under eyelids will naturally age as time goes by.

What should I expect after a lower blepharoplasty?

After undergoing a lower blepharoplasty, you should expect that your eye area may be swollen, sore, and sensitive. You may also feel tightness in your under-eye, which is normal. If you wear contact lenses, expect that you will not be allowed to wear them while you are still recovering from the procedure.

May 04
2
under eye correction surgery

Under Eye Correction Surgery – What You Need to Know for More Youthful Looking Under Eyes

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Under-eye correction surgery is one of the best ways to combat what many consider as the most unattractive features, eye bags, and dark circles. The current trend is to look young and attractive, even as you grow older. However, what do you do when at a young age, your appearance looks far beyond your years because of your eyes? The eyes have the thinnest skin and can easily be affected by improper care. Some people try home remedies with the hope that they will be effective or buy the latest skincare that promises to get rid of the bags and circles in just days, yet nothing changes. For stubborn eye bags and dark circles, the best choice would be to undergo under-eye correction surgery. 

What is Under Eye Correction Surgery?

Under-eye correction surgery is a cosmetic procedure that gives a solution to dark circles, puffiness and sagging in the lower eyelid. These issues in the under eyes are brought about by fats that have accumulated in the area because of factors like aging, genetics, allergies, pigmentation, too much sun exposure, smoking, and stress. When the aging of the eye bags is hindered, it decreases the elasticity of the skin and makes a person look older and more tired than they are. 

There are two techniques that surgeons currently use to bring back a smooth and youthful appearance to the under eyes, namely the fat repositioning and fat removal. Fat repositioning is done when the eye bags are visibly protruding or if there is a lack of volume in the tear trough. From the name itself, the fat is relocated upwards or in the hollow areas. On the other hand, fat removal is meant for excessive protrusion of under-eye bags to the point that it has begun showing dark circles as well. This procedure is done when there is too much fat that cannot be repositioned. 

Benefits of Under Eye Correction Surgery

The main goal of surgeries that correct the eye area is to improve the person’s appearance. In the case of under-eye correction surgery, it is most beneficial to a lot of people because of how it can alter the appearance positively. Some of the benefits of an under-eye correction surgery include: 

  • Increase in confidence 
  • Improvement of the facial appearance
  • Younger and livelier looking eye area
  • Elimination of puffiness under the eyes 
  • Significant reduction of under-eye bags 
  • Decrease of wrinkles and lines in the under eyes 
  • Elimination of under-eye dark circles

Under Eye Correction Surgery Procedure

Two options can be used during an under-eye correction procedure. According to Dr. Perry from the Cleveland Clinic, fat removal is an older surgical technique that corrects the under eyes. However, the technique only helps in getting rid of the eye bags and dark circles but does not fix the hallows and does not have a rejuvenating effect. For this, fat repositioning was created, which can treat eye bags, hallows, and dark circles in one procedure.  

The duration of an under-eye correction surgery is between 30 minutes to an hour. Usually, local anesthesia with sedation is used, but general anesthesia may also be an option if needed. The procedure for fat removal and fat repositioning are as follows: 

The duration of an under-eye correction surgery is between 30 minutes to an hour. Usually, local anesthesia with sedation is used, but general anesthesia may also be an option if needed. The procedure for fat removal and fat repositioning are as follows: 

 1. Fat repositioning 

  1. Fat repositioning 

    1. The surgeon first makes design as a guide and as a model to show the patient the possible outcome of the procedure.  
    2. A small incision inside the lower eyelid or the inner conjunctiva is created. 
    3. The fat is then repositioned upwards or into the hallows between the under eye and the cheeks. 
    4. The incisions are then sutured, and a bandage protects the under-eye. 

Under Eye Correction Surgery Recovery

Recovery after an under eye correction surgery is gradual and will take one to three weeks, with the outcome becoming visible after three to six months. As usual, swelling, bruising, sensitivity, tightness, and itching may be felt in the eye area for a week or more. During the first week, swelling and bruising may be severe. For this, your surgeon will recommend that you apply a cold compress to ease the swelling and elevate your head when you are lying down to prevent fluid buildup in the under eyes. These side effects gradually disappear within three weeks, and you will be allowed to work ten days to two weeks after the surgery. After three weeks, you may be allowed to wear your contact lenses and resume with vigorous activities. 

Under Eye Correction Surgery Before and After.

Most patients are satisfied with the results of under-eye correction surgery and have undergone the procedure successfully and without any complications. With the right care and maintenance, the effects of the procedure can last for a long time. As shown in the pictures below, you can see that there have been significant improvements in the patients ‘after’ photographs as compared to the ‘before’ ones. The puffiness, dark circles, and tired appearance have been replaced with a more youthful, glowing, and livelier under eyes.

Eye bags and dark circles are commonly a cause of several factors like aging, genetics, stress, and allergies, to name a few. With the use of the under-eye correction surgery, the said issues in the under eyes are eliminated through the removal or repositioning of fat. Fat removal is for excessive under eye protrusion and for fats that cannot be repositioned. Fat repositioning, on the other hand, is the relocation of the fat upward or into the hollows between the eyes and cheeks. The procedure takes around 30 minutes to one hour with the use of local anesthesia. The recovery lasts for three weeks and continues until three to six months when the results of the procedure reach the final setting. 

For unsightly and stubborn eye bags and dark circles, opt to see someone who specializes in giving solutions to this common issue like a board-certified plastic surgeon. In Korea, one of the most common plastic surgery treatments is those for the eyes. Because of this, you are assured that you are in excellent and well-experienced hands. For a consultation with the top plastic surgeons in the country, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical through their website and be ready to say goodbye to those pesky dark circles and bags. 

FAQ :

For whom is under-eye correction surgery most recommended?

An under-eye correction surgery is most recommended for individuals who do not like having a tired and older appearance because of their eye bags, dark circles, and under-eye hollows. Other individuals who are good candidates for under-eye correction surgery are: Those who look tired and fatigued even with enough sleep and rest Those who have problems with excess fats in the under eye Those who want to look younger and livelier Those who have eye bags that cannot be eliminated by skincare and medication Those who are aged 18 and above Those who are physically and psychologically healthy Those who do not have a serious illness that may cause complications Those who have realistic expectations of the outcome

Is under-eye correction surgery permanent?

The results of an under-eye correction surgery are not considered permanent, but only long-lasting, especially with proper skincare and habits. This is because as time goes by, the eye area will continue to age naturally and may alter the effects of the procedure.

What can you expect after an under eye correction surgery?

Just like with any surgical procedure, you should expect that your eyelids will be numb for a few hours, and will swell as well as bruise. Your eyes may also be sensitive, puffy, and watery because of what they have undergone during the procedure. For incisions that are not hidden inside the eyelid, the scars will be visible but will fade gradually through time.

Mar 04
6

Breast Augmentation Surgery – Everything You Need to Know

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

A timeless and classic example of a woman’s body part that has always been considered significant in regards to her beauty is the breasts. Though beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and can have many faces, breasts seem to be a factor that seems to weigh heavily on the scale of attractiveness regardless of the times or cultures. Unfortunately, they are not something that all women are gifted with, and even when they are they do not always look like the ideal pair. Fortunately, however, is that now we live in a time in which we have the option of undergoing breast augmentation to achieve the ideal breasts in our eyes. 

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, or as it is loosely referred, a ‘boob job’, simply means increasing the size of the breast. This can be done through two different methods, them being implants or a fat transfer. There can be a variety of reasons why women would feel they need this procedure, such as;

  • Mothers whose breasts have changed in appearance after breastfeeding; usually the breasts appear ‘deflated’. 
  • Women who have undergone the removal of breast cancer which has left one or both of the breasts significantly reduced in size. 
  • Asymmetric breasts
  • Tubular breasts
  • Women who feel their breasts are too small

Boob Job Procedure

There are a few critical steps that you must choose and take before undergoing the procedure. They are listed for you below. Regardless of what options you choose, general anesthesia will be administered, and the standard length of the procedure is 2 hours for a non-complex case. Preoperative marking will also be done. Make sure to ask your plastic surgeon the following questions.  

Location of Incision

There are three possible locations for your incision.

  • The first and preferred incision method is inframammary (IMF) due to a variety of reason such as;
  1. Less likely to cause complications.
  2. The implant is more easily manipulated by the surgeon, therefore it is placed much more exact than through the other incisions.
  3. If a second surgery is needed it is easier to do it through the previous incision site.
  4. If you know your body generally leaves thick scars this may not be the best option for you, though over time most people’s scarring will fade to a light, barely visible line. It will be hidden by the breasts natural crease as well.  
  • The second option is periareolar (the bottom of the nipple). 
  1. The scarring has the potential to blend into the nipple due to the difference present between the nipples’ color versus the skins’. 
  2. More likely to cause CC.
  1. This offers less noticeable scarring due to its location.
  2. This method is more difficult for the surgeon to manipulate the implant with, therefore exact results are more difficult to achieve. 

B. Location of Implant

There are two possible options for the location of the implant. The primary and preferred location most surgeons have is submuscular (below the muscle) due to a variety of factors such as;

  1. A more natural appearance
  2. Less likelihood of sagging  
  3. If more muscular, it may distort the shape of the implant or cause discomfort. 

The secondary location is subglandular. This location can have increased sagging in the later years of the implants course, and may show rippling as well as the nipple’s numbness increased. 

C. Texture

There are two options for texture, the preferred one being smooth. This is particularly important as one of the most common complications with breast implants is capsular contraction (CC). This is when the natural scar tissue pocket that the body forms around the implant (which is completely natural when you introduce a foreign item into your body and is what helps give the new breast its shape) hardens over time. This can cause the breasts to get that artificial appearance, as well as make them firm to the touch. More significantly, in extreme cases it can cause pain and discomfort if the pocket becomes too tight. Smooth implants are significantly less likely to cause CC. 

The second option are textured implants. The main benefit of these implants is that they claim that they do not ‘slip’ and therefore prevent sagging. However, it is important to keep in mind the increased likelihood of CC. They are also more likely to cause Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL), a type of cancer of the immune system.

D. Silicone or Saline?

This is the most common question that most people have when it comes to choosing the right implant. They both offer benefits that you should consider when choosing the correct implant for you, such as;

Silicone Saline
Most people claim the texture of this implant offers the most similar texture to real breasts when they are touched. If the implant ruptures, the body will simply reabsorb the saline, which is just salt water. The boob will immediately deflate, therefore it will be easy to know if an implant has ruptured.

 
It seems to offer the most natural results afterwards.

 

 They are usually cheaper than silicone implants.

 

Saying this, both also have possible downsides such as;

Silicone Saline
If the implant ruptures, it is much more difficult to tell. Though the body will not absorb the silicone, the leaking silicone might migrate to other parts of the body if not caught early enough and cause further complications. This is why it is recommended that you get an MRI 3 years after your initial surgery and every 2 years after to check for a possible rupture. This is an extra cost. Some people have said they can hear the water in the breast swirling when they move.

 

Alternative Option for Breast Augmentation Surgery

Fat Grafting

fat grafting alternative method of breast augmentation

This technique is relatively new to the world of cosmetic surgery, therefore it is less researched and the ideal technique has not been perfect. The main idea behind this is moving extra fat from one place in your body that tends to carry most of your fat, such as your thighs, stomach or buttocks. This is usually done through liposuction. Afterwards the fat is treated through a method in which the pure fat cells are separated from other substances and fluids that are suctioned out. Once the pure fat is all that is left, that fat is injected into the desired area (in this case, the breasts), until they are full. 

This procedure offers two benefits in one, due to the fact that liposuction and breast enhancement is done at once. It also is significantly safer due to the fact that the body will not reject its own fat cells, so no adverse reactions should occur. A significant study has also recently come forward saying that women who undergo this procedure during ovulation retain almost 50% of fat, while women outside of their ovulation window will only retain 29-35% on average. 

This procedure may seem perfect, however, results can never be fully guaranteed and therefore downsides exist. Due to the fact that the body can reabsorb the fat, exactly how much fat will survive can never be truly estimated. It also tends to carry a heavier price tag than breast implants. Most significantly, the breasts can only expand so much before they become constricted. Excessively constricted fat is less likely to survive, so your surgeon will overfill the breasts knowing a good portion of the fat will die, but they cannot bring you up multiple cup sizes. At most expect half to a full cup increase in size. If your goal is to go up in size more than this, it is recommended to go with breast implants instead. 

Boob Job Recovery

It may seem like the hard work is over after sorting through all the options of what you want and what your surgeon advised, as well as after having undergone the procedure, but this stage can be considered the most critical in what the final appearance of your breasts will be. Proper care of the new breasts is crucial. These will be the general steps of recovery, but can vary between each surgeon’s preference.

  1. Immediately after surgery, your new breasts will be wrapped in a surgical bra to keep them in place for the first few days. You will have the most swelling during this stage, though there shouldn’t be significant bruising. You will also be prescribed antibiotics which you must finish the full course through to prevent any infection of the incision site. Pain killers may also be prescribed to help with the initial pain. 
  2. At your follow up consultation three days later, your breasts will be checked for progress and bandaging will be changed.
  3. The next follow up will be about seven days after surgery. At this time, you will be switched from your surgical bra to a sort of holster bra. This will help support and guide your breasts into their new shape. An elastic band will also be applied around the top of the breasts that will be tightly wrapped to help push the breasts down. You will keep this on for the first month. About 80% of swelling should also disappear after the first month.  
  4. You will be able to shower about 10 days after your surgery. 
  5. Avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon will give you a more exact timeline. 
  6. After your holster bra is removed, you will be allowed to wear sports bras. Nothing with an underwire can be worn for 6 months after surgery. 
  7. You may begin massaging the breasts to help expand the pocket and prevent CC three months after surgery. 

Boob Job Before and After

As you can see there is a significant difference between the original size and shape of the breasts as compared to the final results after breast augmentation.

As you can see, a boob job offers a significant possibility in being able to change your breasts appearance. There are two options for how you want to achieve an increased breast size, the largest factor being how much you would like the sizing to change. For filling about a cup size, a fat transfer would be the most ideal. If you want to go up more than one cup size, it is recommended you get implants, or have repeat procedures of the fat transfer.

For best results, you can also combine both procedures. It is crucial not only to pick all the correct options to suit your idea of the perfect breasts, but to follow post-operative care instructions to achieve the best results. If you feel prepared to begin this process towards your new and improved breasts, feel free to contact Seoul Guide Medical who will put you in contact with some of the most renowned plastic surgeons in Korea. For some of the most natural results possible, get your breast augmentation in Korea. 

Feb 25
0

Facial Feminization in Korea – Everything You Need to Know!

By | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Facial feminization surgery is an excellent procedure for transgender women and females because it helps them feel a sense of belonging in society. In today’s time, your facial appearance matters so much when it comes to the social aspect of life. Everyone wants to belong in a way that they are comfortable with and in a way that shows their true identity. With the help of facial feminization surgery, women and transgender women who have problems with gender dysphoria can now reveal their true identity.

Facial Feminization in Korea

What is Facial Feminization, and to whom is it applicable?

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is a group of cosmetic procedures that reconstruct facial features that appear masculine and alter them to become more feminine. This procedure can alter both soft tissues as well as the facial bone to achieve more feminine-looking facial features. Some of the procedures included in facial feminization surgery are: 

These procedures make a face look softer and more feminine by creating a more pointed chin, a less angular nose tip, and changing the shape of the skull. 

A facial feminization surgery can even be considered as a solution to women who want to have their masculine features softened to look feminine. This is also to get rid of gender dysphoria, especially in transgender women. Gender dysphoria, which, according to Dr. Agostini and his coauthors, is a “discomfort and distress arising from a discrepancy between a person’s gender identity and sex assigned at birth.” In some instances, facial feminization surgery is considered more vital than sex reassignment surgeries. This is because it does more to help transgender women incorporate themselves into society as females. The foremost benefit of this procedure is the treatment of gender dysphoria in both women and transgender women. Some of the other benefits include an increase in confidence, having a sense of belongingness in society, and being comfortable in one’s own body. 

How is it done?

Not every person will need to undergo a full facial feminization as each person has his or her needs to gain the right results. Most, however, will undergo the procedures that involve bone reconstruction.

The duration of the surgery depends on the procedures that will be done on the patient. This involves non-invasive and invasive procedures for bone and soft tissue alterations anywhere from dermal fillers, fat grafting, implants, and bone reconstruction. As with every plastic surgery procedure, this should also be done by a licensed plastic surgeon. The steps during a facial feminization include the following: 

Anesthesia

Depending on the FFS procedure to be done, the surgeon can give either local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or local anesthesia paired with IV sedation. For non-invasive procedures or more straightforward procedures like dermal fillers, anesthesia may not be needed unless the patient requests it. 

Core FFS Procedures

  • Rhinoplasty

Bone and cartilage are altered to produce a more petite nose with a slight curve. 

  • Cheek augmentation

The cheeks are feminized by defining them through fat grafting or by placing implants on the cheekbone. 

  • Jaw and Chin Contouring

As compared to a male jaw and chin that are more angled and square, a female jaw and chin are more pointed and refined. This is done by either adjusting the bone and tissue or reducing a part of the bone in the jaw and chin area. 

  • Tracheal Shave 

This is also known as the Adam’s Apple, and it is reduced to eliminate a masculine appearance. 

  • Hairline Advancement

The hairline is moved forward, and the peaks are removed to create a more rounded hairline, which is typical for females. 

  • Soft Tissue procedures 

These procedures are only done in conjunction with the core FFS procedures to enhance the results and are not perceived to signify the gender of one’s facial features. 

    1. brow lifting 
    2. eyelid surgery
    3. face and neck lift

How long does it take to recover from FFS?

The duration of recovery from a facial feminization surgery depends on the procedure/s that was done. For core FFS procedures, swelling and bruising is expected right after the surgery and may be resolved after one to two weeks. Since this is major surgery, you are highly advised to slow down with your daily activities for two weeks.

You should avoid any strenuous activities and take time off work to rest and recover properly. Your doctor will prescribe you antibiotics and pain medication, which you have to take diligently. For swelling and bruising, a cold compress is a great way to help reduce it. When going outside, make sure to wear sunblock or protective clothing for nine months to avoid any damage that the sun can cause. 

Facial Feminization Before and After

The results of a facial feminization surgery take time to be visible. Usually, you can see 80% of the outcome by three months. At six months to a year, the results will have set fully, and you will be able to see your final appearance. Just like in the before and after pictures below, you can see that the patients’ appearance looks more feminine after undergoing facial feminization surgery. Their face shows much smoother and more petite features that make them look more feminine as compared to before.

Facial Feminization

Image Source

Image Source

To conclude, facial feminization surgery can offer an effective transformation from a masculine appearance to a softer and more feminine one. It involves a group of procedures divided into the core FFS procedures and soft tissue procedures. The core FFS procedures are more on altering the bones, while soft tissue procedures are only conjunct procedures that help enhance the appearance. One of the most significant benefits of an FFS is the treatment of gender dysphoria. With the issue gone, patients who undergo this procedure can feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies. 

Just like any plastic surgery, for this to have successful and effective results, it should be done by a well-experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon. If you are someone who wants to undergo this procedure safely, contact Seoul Guide Medical through our website. We have plastic surgeons who are well-known and are internationally acclaimed when it comes to various plastic surgery procedures. They never fail to produce results that are of high standards. 

FAQs:

Can Facial Feminization also be done on the female gender?

A facial feminization surgery is currently done mostly on transgender women or males that want to transition into females. However, this can also be done on females who wish to feminize some of their facial features that look masculine.

How long until can I see the results after facial feminization surgery?

How long until the results of a facial feminization surgery can become visible depends on the procedure/s that was done. Usually, it will take three months to a year for you to see stable and full results.

Is Facial Feminization surgery permanent?

The results after a facial feminization surgery can be temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent, depending on the procedure that was done. If the procedure altered the bones, then most likely, it will produce a lasting result. If the procedure used dermal fillers, fat grafting, or implants, it will either give a semi-permanent or temporary outcome.

Contact us here for a free consultation!

[contact-form-7 id="4"]