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[ARTICLES] Even Decades-Old Contouring Pins Can Be Safely Removed

Pins inserted during facial contouring surgery to fix the bones in place do not always need to be removed. However, many patients consider removal due to discomfort, concerns about inflammation, or personal reasons. In particular, those who had surgery more than 10–20 years ago often worry, “Has it been too long to remove them safely?” Specialists advise that the more important factor is not how much time has passed, but whether the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon. Even if the pins have fused with the bone, safe removal is possible when supported by precise analysis through 3D CT scans and a surgeon with extensive experience. The original surgeon is not required—any skilled professional can perform the procedure without issue. The pins used in contouring surgery serve to stabilize the repositioned facial bones so that they heal securely. They can typically be removed after six months, and removal within two years is often recommended. Still, this does not mean remo...
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[ARTICLE] Should You Remove Old Pins from Facial Contouring or Two-Jaw Surgery? Precision Diagnosis Is Key

An increasing number of people who have undergone facial contouring or two-jaw (orthognathic) surgery in the past are now considering whether to have their surgical pins removed. Pins are typically used in procedures like zygoma reduction, mandibular angle reduction, and chin reduction to fix repositioned facial bones in place and ensure proper bone healing. Pin removal is generally possible at least six months after surgery. However, many patients delay the procedure, and in some cases, several years may pass. Dr. Soonbeom Kwon, Chief Director of ARC Plastic Surgery Clinic, advises, “If more than 10 years have passed since surgery, the pins are likely to have adhered to the bone or surrounding tissues. Therefore, a detailed evaluation using 3D CT scans is essential to precisely determine the pin’s location and the bone condition before proceeding carefully.” It’s important to note that pin removal is not always necessary. However, it may be considered in the following cases: if the patient wishes to hide evidence of prior surgery, if metallic materials show up during health screenings and cause discomfort, if there is ongoing pain or a foreign body sensation around the pin, or if trauma or impact poses a potential risk. Dr. Kwon explained, “Even if a long time has passed since the initial surgery, pin removal can be performed safely with accurate analysis and skilled surgical technique. However, if the pin is heavily adhered to surrounding tissues, the procedure may become more complex—making the judgment of an experienced surgeon especially important.” After pin removal surgery, patients may experience temporary pain or swelling. It is recommended to avoid hard or chewy foods and to get sufficient rest. Dr. Kwon added, “During recovery, it’s best to refrain from strenuous activities and to keep the surgical site clean, which helps promote proper healing.” – Medical Today, Reporter Seongwoo Cho (ostin0284@mdtoday.co.kr)
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