





<<Two-week post-op review of implant-free rhinoplasty>>
Although this was my first rhinoplasty,
I have a very detail-oriented personality,
so I visited many clinics and gathered
a lot of information beforehand.
I had a very clear understanding
of what I wanted for my nose.
My nose wasn’t particularly small,
but my septum was quite small,
and it was noticeably deviated—
to the point where people often asked
if I had injured it as a child.
So I wanted to address both
aesthetic and functional issues
at the same time.
My original nose had some bridge height,
but it was short,
with large nostrils
and a slightly wide, bulbous appearance.
(My skin is relatively thin and elastic
for a male nose.)
After many consultations,
I became more focused on identifying flaws
rather than advantages,
and I chose my clinic very carefully.
From my first consultation
with Dr. Hyunjoo Kim at RU Plastic Surgery,
I felt confident that I wouldn’t regret
having surgery here.
I ended up paying in full on the same day
and canceled all my other consultations.
My surgical plan included
implant-free rhinoplasty
using autologous rib cartilage,
alar reduction,
and two types of functional surgery
for rhinitis.
On the day of surgery,
while recovering in the recovery room,
Dr. Kim personally came to check on me
and told me the procedure went well,
which I really appreciated.
Unlike other clinics,
the post-operative care is very thorough,
and the doctor personally handles
all follow-ups,
which gives me a lot of reassurance.
The first day was difficult
due to rib pain and nasal packing,
but the rib discomfort gradually improved
after about 3–4 days.
Interestingly, I had almost no swelling
or bruising—
my face looked nearly identical
to before surgery,
so I didn’t even need ice packs
or take walks for recovery.
After one week,
when the splint was removed,
there wasn’t much swelling,
and I could already see
a clean, straight nasal line
that I really liked.
I was especially worried
about visible scars from alar reduction,
but the external incision is so well hidden
along the natural contour
that it’s barely noticeable.
Since it’s still early,
I do have a lot of nasal discharge,
but my family and friends
say the results look great.
Most importantly,
the 45-degree and side profile—
which used to bother me
due to nostril show and a short nose—
has improved significantly,
and I’m very satisfied with that change.