Rhinoplasty With Rib Cartilage

Why Use Rib Cartilage For Rhinoplasty?

During a primary (first-time) rhinoplasty, cartilage is typically taken from the septum to make grafts that help change the shape of the nose to improve both appearance and breathing.  When a revision rhinoplasty is needed with additional grafts, the cartilage has to be harvested from somewhere else. 

Your own rib is the most reliable source of cartilage for complex revision rhinoplasty.  There is no substitute for your own rib cartilage in terms of length, strength, straightness, and quantity.  Rib cartilage can be easily harvested through a 1 inch (2.5 – 3 cm) incision over your rib cage. 

What Are The Risks Of Using Rib Cartilage For Rhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, there is always the chance of bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding structures such as nerves.  However, these risks are very uncommon with rib cartilage harvest.  Rib cartilage harvest is very safe and extremely effective for revision rhinoplasty surgery.