How to address a low nose bridge? Using nose clips? Applying nose-enhancing oils? These methods seem unscientific and offer no guaranteed results. Today, a more scientifically sound and effective approach exists for those seeking a higher nasal bridge: undergoing rhinoplasty with implants at a plastic surgery clinic.Years of clinical cases demonstrate that implant rhinoplasty offers both safety and proven results. However, many individuals remain unclear about the 7 key techniques and 5 essential post-operative care points for this procedure. Let's explore them below. 7 Key Techniques for Implant Rhinoplasty 1. Sculpting the implant is crucial for surgical success.After selecting the implant model, it must be meticulously sculpted to match the patient's nasal structure. Crucially, it should align with the patient's nasal bone shape. When placed externally, the implant should not slide down. Its length and tip must not exceed the golden point, and the implant's columellar length should not exceed the patient's natural columella length by more than 3mm.
2. Regarding incision placement for implant rhinoplasty, unilateral nostril margin incisions are generally avoided. This approach hinders adequate dissection of the nasal cavity and increases the risk of deviated incisions.Butterfly incisions at the nasal tip are also discouraged due to visible scarring. The latest incision design involves making incisions along the inner edges of both nostrils while dissecting the columella both upward and downward. This creates a sufficiently large and relatively straight cavity, minimizing the risk of implant deviation post-surgery.The pocket should be approximately 1–2 mm longer than the implant. An overly wide pocket may cause the implant to tilt, while an overly narrow pocket prevents the implant from freely expanding within the pocket, also leading to potential misalignment. 4. Implant insertion. Grasp the front end of the prepared implant with straight, small-toothed forceps and slowly insert it through the incision (avoid force to prevent skin rupture).If insertion is difficult, the pocket may be obstructed; re-dissect the implant pocket. After placement, use thumb and index finger to align the implant properly. 5. Stabilization. Internal or external fixation is generally unnecessary post-surgery. If deviation is noticed after 3–4 days when swelling subsides, manually manipulate the implant with fingers to correct its position.If deviation persists beyond 7–8 days, reshaping becomes difficult. By this stage, the implant cavity has become firmly established, making morphological alteration challenging.Traditionally, willow-leaf implants were used when only the nasal root needed elevation, without considering tip augmentation. However, some willow-leaf implants may migrate downward after several months or a year, yielding unsatisfactory results. Therefore, even for patients seeking solely nasal root elevation, L-shaped implants are now preferred to avoid the drawbacks associated with willow-leaf implants.
7. A technique for sculpting the implant: When significant augmentation is needed but the implant model is thick and rigid, cut it into squid-roll shapes using a blade. This involves making horizontal and vertical incisions along the inner surface without severing the implant. This allows the implant to conform freely to the nasal bone and reduces the risk of slippage.
5 Key Postoperative Care Guidelines for Implant Rhinoplasty
1.After rhinoplasty with implants, lie flat as much as possible with your head and back elevated to reduce swelling and pain. Local ice packs effectively alleviate discomfort. After 5 days, switch to warm compresses to aid recovery.
2. Apply antibiotic ointment to the incision site. If minor bleeding occurs, gently dab with sterile cotton swabs. Avoid touching the wound with unclean items to prevent infection.
3. If blood crusts form on the wound, gently wash them off with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Rinse with saline solution, apply a small amount of ointment, or sprinkle with anti-inflammatory powder to keep the wound dry and allow it to heal naturally.
4. Minimize activity after implant rhinoplasty, especially facial movements. Rest lying flat and avoid frequent actions like removing and putting on glasses.
5. Abstain from smoking and alcohol post-surgery. Avoid spicy or irritating foods. Consume high-protein foods and fresh vegetables. Contact your doctor immediately if any adverse reactions occur to address potential risks.