Before surgery, my biggest concern was that my columella was recessed inward and my alar base was widely spread. Overall, my nose looked low and blunt, so I wanted to improve the bridge and tip naturally. I also had difficulty breathing through my nose because of a deviated septum, so I decided on functional rhinoplasty to improve both the aesthetic and functional aspects.
I first learned about ALYOU Plastic Surgery while watching a YouTuber’s rhinoplasty video. The change looked natural and the result looked good, which sparked my interest, so I researched the clinic in detail. After reviewing many surgical cases, I came to trust the natural results and stable surgical approach and wanted an in-person consultation.
At first I was worried about rhinoplasty and unsure whether to proceed, but after visiting and consulting with Dr. Kim Hyun-joo, my trust grew. The doctor explained a method suited to my nasal condition in detail, reducing my vague anxiety, and I ultimately decided to have surgery.
During my consultation, the doctor explained the structural issues of my existing nose and the direction of improvement. The focus was on lowering the inwardly recessed columella naturally, improving the spread-looking alae and low tip, and creating an overall balanced shape. Rather than an excessively high or artificial shape, I wanted a straight, masculine nasal line that would blend naturally with my face.
The most memorable part of the consultation was the explanation of the surgical materials. The doctor explained that aggressively using septal cartilage in Korean patients can cause problems with structural stability. Since my septal cartilage itself was relatively small, we decided to preserve it as much as possible. Therefore, the septum was only trimmed and corrected where necessary, while autologous costal cartilage was used to shape the height and form of the nose. In addition, custom 3D InnoFit silicone was used to shape the bridge according to my nasal structure and desired design.
I trusted the doctor because the plan considered stability and a natural shape while preserving my existing nasal structure as much as possible, rather than focusing only on making the nose higher.
It has now been about two weeks since surgery. Immediately afterward I was uncomfortable because of swelling and congestion, but I am gradually recovering. As the swelling subsides, I can especially feel the overall nasal line settling naturally.
The most satisfying improvement is functional. Before surgery, a deviated septum made it difficult to breathe through my nose, but afterward breathing became much more comfortable, and I can feel a positive change in daily life.
I am also highly satisfied aesthetically. The previously recessed columella has come down naturally, and as the bridge and tip gained height, my nose became much more defined and three-dimensional overall. I like that it did not simply become higher, but changed naturally while harmonizing with my existing face. The blunt, spread-out appearance also seems much improved.
There is still a silicone pad inside my nose and the swelling has not completely subsided, so this is not the final result. However, it is becoming more natural day by day as the swelling goes down. I expect an even more natural line after the silicone pad is removed and recovery progresses further.
I had many worries before surgery, but so far I am satisfied with both the functional improvement and the aesthetic change. I especially appreciate that the surgery was performed conservatively after considering my nasal structure and condition, and I look forward to seeing the final result as recovery continues.