Nose Implant Removal

Infection
Infections of implants placed into the nose are actually higher than other types of implants such as breast implants. If infected, a trial of antibiotics may be started, but the nose implant will likely have to be removed.

Extrusion
Under rare circumstances, the nose implant may extrude or come out of a wound at the nose. Such problems are most common in smokers or patients at high risk for wound healing problems. Another population of rhinoplasty patients which has a higher risk of implant extrusions includes those who use cocaine. The compromised vascularity of the nose in cocaine users leads to progressive thinning of nasal tissues with eventual collapse and extrusion of the nasal implants. Once a nose implant begins to extrude to come out of the nose, it has to be removed in order to minimize the risk for infection. Another means of nasal support or augmentation will have to be performed once the infection has resolved.

Change in shape
Nose implants can either shift in position or in shape long after the implant was placed inside the nose. Whether due to trauma or unknown causes, if the change in shape or position of the implant is significant enough, the nose implant has to be removed and repositioned into its correct location. Certain types of nasal implants such as L-struts may actually break leading to change in nasal support and shape. In such cases, the nose implant will again have to be exchanged for either another synthetic implant or one made of the patient’s cartilage.

Asymmetry
Close examination of anyone’s nose typically reveals subtle asymmetry or unevenness from one side to another. Nasal implants may at times highlight the asymmetry of the nose. If such problems are moderately severe, the nasal implant can be removed and / or replaced. Please take the time to contact out office to discuss your particular problem and interests such that we can provide you will all the guidance you require to make an informed decision.

Personal dissatisfaction
On occasion, the results of a nasal implant may fall short of your expectations. If you are extremely dissatisfied with the results, the nose implant can be removed. An important factor to consider is the rationale for insertion of the nose implant to begin with. If you had a complicated nose with no support which required a nasal implant for shape and definition, the implant can not be simply removed without compromising the shape of your nose. A detailed examination by a plastic and reconstructive surgeon as well as lengthy discussions with the surgeon are necessary to detail and plan the nose implant removal. Replacement of the implant with another synthetic or one made of the patient’s bone / cartilage may be necessary. You are encouraged to contact our office for a complimentary consultation to discuss your particular case.