A contracted nose can appear short, upturned, or stiff after previous surgery. Here's what causes nasal contracture and how it is corrected.
A contracted nose is one of the more challenging problems addressed in revision rhinoplasty. It develops when the internal space of the nose shrinks after a previous operation, changing both the shape and, sometimes, the function of the nose.
What Causes Contracture?
Contracture occurs when scar tissue and inflammation after a previous nose surgery cause the internal structure to tighten and shorten. Contributing factors can include previous implant complications, infection, or repeated surgeries. The degree and cause vary between individuals, so precise diagnosis is essential.
Signs of a Contracted Nose
- The nose looks shortened or the tip appears upturned
- Nostrils become more visible from the front
- The nose feels stiff or hard
- The bridge and tip look pulled or deviated
How a Contracted Nose Is Corrected
Correction generally involves removing any existing implant, releasing the contracted tissue, and rebuilding the nasal framework so it can hold a natural shape again. Because the nose needs firm support, autologous tissue is usually preferred:
- Rib cartilage for strong structural support
- Septal cartilage for tip work when available
- Autologous dermis in selected cases
Which tissue is used depends on the nasal condition, the degree of contracture, and previous surgical history.
Timing and Assessment
As with other revisions, adequate healing time after the previous surgery matters. A 3D CT scan helps map the internal structure and plan the reconstruction. At EDITION Plastic Surgery, Dr. Han Dae-hee treats contracted-nose cases as a core focus, handling diagnosis, surgery, and follow-up personally.
A contracted nose needs its support structure rebuilt, not simply re-shaped — which is why autologous tissue is central to the correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Q. Can a severely contracted nose still be corrected?
Many contracted noses can be improved, though the approach depends on the degree of contracture and the tissue available. A consultation with imaging is needed to assess what is realistic.
Q. I've had several surgeries — is another revision possible?
Repeat revision may be possible depending on your condition and the health of the nose and body. The availability of usable autologous tissue is also considered.
Q. Will my breathing improve too?
Contracture can affect breathing, and reconstruction may address functional issues alongside appearance. This is evaluated case by case.