Rhinoplasty (Preservation / Closed Approach)

My Approach

The nose sits at the centre of the face, both literally and emotionally. Rhinoplasty, when done with respect for anatomy and structure, should enhance facial harmony rather than create distraction.

My approach follows the principles of preservation rhinoplasty, using autologous tissue and gentle contour refinement to deliver natural, long-lasting results.

Other procedures that may enhance facial balance include chin augmentation and, in selected cases, jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery, not offered by Dr Ng but for which a referral can be facilitated).

Planning & Technique

I believe that most noses do not require radical reconstruction. Instead, beautiful rhinoplasty begins with preservation:

I prioritise minimal disruption to soft tissues, preserving native ligaments and blood supply
I favour closed (endonasal) techniques when appropriate, to reduce scars, swelling, and recovery time
Interventions are always based on proportion, not fashion. I reshape, refine and restore balance.

This philosophy is similar to how I treat hand fractures: if alignment can be restored without unnecessary exposure, that is the safer and smarter approach.

Tissue, Grafts & Cartilage Strategy

Autologous tissue only - no implants, no synthetic grafts.

Septal cartilage: In many Asian noses, the septum offers limited cartilage and is critical for long-term support. I adopt a septal-sparing graft philosophy, avoiding overharvest to preserve structural integrity.
Ear (conchal) cartilage: For mild to moderate refinements, harvested ear cartilage is often sufficient as it is soft, adaptable, and low morbidity.
Rib cartilage: Reserved only for major reconstructive needs (severe collapse, trauma, major revision). It is never routinely used.

This strategy keeps the natural support intact while providing safe, stable refinement.

Dorsal & Radix Refinement - Fine Cartilage & 3D-Printed Splint Support

For patients seeking subtle bridge or radix enhancement without implants, I may offer a technique using finely prepared cartilage. This achieves natural dorsal contouring with minimal grafting, avoiding harsh edges or foreign materials.

To optimise healing and contour stability, I support this with a custom 3D-printed nasal splint, designed to gently conform to your anatomy and guide soft-tissue settling in the early postoperative period.

Together, these allow for refinement that feels natural, integrates with your own tissues, and supports long-term structural health

Skin & Soft Tissue Management

Thick, sebaceous nasal skin is common, especially in Asian patients. This can blur nasal definition and reduce tip clarity. Instead of aggressive surgical thinning (which risks devascularisation, fibrosis, and unpredictable healing), I advocate for safe, evidence-based skin optimisation:

medically guided retinoids for gradual skin remodeling
selective laser therapy for sebaceous hyperplasia or oily skin
careful skincare and postoperative skin maintenance

This combined tissue + skin approach helps preserve vascularity while improving final definition for results that age gracefully.

Recovery & Expectations

Most patients can return home the same day; nasal breathing is typically maintained post-op
Surgical swelling generally subsides within 1 to 2 weeks
A custom 3D-printed splint may be used to support healing and contour stability when indicated
Light bruising around the eyes (especially if osteotomies were performed) can be covered with makeup once the splint is removed.
Gentle return to work around 5 to 7 days, depending on swelling; avoid strenuous activity for 3 to 4 weeks
Final subtle refinement continues over 6 to 12 months (sometimes up to 18 months), as the soft tissue settles over the refined, underlying framework
In around 10% of cases, minor irregularities may occur due to natural cartilage and bone remodelling. These are easily refined with a small amount of filler, often producing a permanent smoothing effect

Post-operative care extends beyond routine reviews - it is an integral part of Dr Ng’s surgical philosophy. Through Doctor Stitch, an aftercare service founded to ensure seamless continuity and comfort, every patient is followed up personally by Dr Ng. Whether at home or in clinic, he provides attentive, discreet, and consistent care throughout the recovery journey.

Rhinoplasty (Preservation / Closed Approach)

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