Do I Need a Cartilage Graft for My Nose Job?
Posted March 17, 2021 in Rhinoplasty
3 Minute Read:
Many patients are concerned when they learn they may need a cartilage graft to get the nose of their dreams. Some worry that the grafts may become visible, affecting their aesthetic results, while others feel the process of cartilage grafting is too invasive.
There, however, should be no cause for alarm as cartilage grafts are used frequently in rhinoplasty and even more so in revision rhinoplasty procedures to strengthen the nose, improve its functionality, and restore definition.
Commonly, grafts are sourced from other cartilage in the nose (septal cartilage), conchal cartilage (ears), or the rib cartilage. If performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, like board-certified plastic surgeon and nose specialist Dr. Paul D. Durand, you can count on achieving your unique goals with cartilage grafts.
When Is a Cartilage Graft Necessary for My Rhinoplasty or Revision Rhinoplasty?
The use of grafts is primarily dependent on the issues being addressed during your rhinoplasty procedure. While cartilage grafts can be applied in initial rhinoplasty, it is much more commonly performed with revision procedures when the structure has already been augmented and weakened.
This technique allows Dr. Durand to safely restore nasal strength and structure.
Some of the most common reasons to use a cartilage graft include:
To Support the Nose Tip
Grafts are frequently used to support the structure of the nose, especially for patients with weak, drooping cartilage at the tip of the nose.
By grafting, Dr. Durand can strengthen and reshape the structure of the nasal tip for a more defined and balanced nasal appearance.
To Improve the Airway
Grafts are needed when straightening out or widening the airway to prevent breathing issues due to nasal valve collapse. Sometimes, the cartilage that is supposed to be supporting the nose side walls is not in the correct location and will need to be repositioned.
To Restore Nasal Dorsal Height
The use of grafts is necessary when strengthening the structural integrity of the nose after a dorsal hump removal. This helps to retain proper nasal function as well as an ideal aesthetic result.
The placement of grafts in patients with narrowed middle vault or collapsed upper lateral cartilage also helps to improve an individual’s cosmetic appearance.
Revision or Secondary Rhinoplasty
If a patient is undergoing revision surgery, grafting is often necessary to strengthen and rebuild the nose to obtain a more natural and aesthetically pleasing contour. For instance, correction of alar retraction requires cartilage grating to provide additional support to the nostril margins.
Cartilage grafting is also used to correct Polly beak deformity(excessive removal of the bridge of the nose), crooked nose, pinched nostrils, and revision of saddle deformity (inadequate support of the middle vault).
Although cartilage grafting may sound invasive or intense, it uses very small incisions where scarring is easily concealed, such as inside the nose (septal cartilage), behind the ear (ear cartilage), or in the creases below the breast (rib cartilage).
Interested in Learning More About Rhinoplasty in Miami?
The best way to determine if you will need a graft for your surgery is to discuss your needs and concerns with your rhinoplasty plastic surgeon. During your consultation, Dr. Durand will assess your needs and develop a plan to correct and reconstruct your nose to enhance its appearance and function.Contact us today at 305-960-7511 or fill our online form to schedule a consultation.