Q: I am Asian and I had L-shaped silicone in my nose now and I actually likes the shape of my nose now except for the hard tip that make people notice I had work done. But then I heard some people say that L-shaped silicone will continue thinning the tip and sooner or later always needs revision surgery. I want to ask, is it true? Will it happen to everyone? So does it mean that I better do my revision surgery as soon as possible?
A: L-shaped silicone implants are a quick and easy way to get a more projected (taller), more refined nose. The problem that you are starting to encounter is a common one for many patients that have rhinoplasty with an L-shaped implant. Unfortunately there is a risk of extrusion and infection of the implant. When the skin overlying the implant thins to the point of extrusion, it must be removed asap. In your situation, there’s no need to panic since that has not happened, but the best option is to replace the silicone implant with your own tissue. You will be able to achieve the shape you want, without people noticing you had work done.
