Removal of Nose Tip Cartilage After Rhinoplasty

Yes, the cartilage can be removed. However, I would advise you give this a lot of time. It is incredible how much swelling the nose can have in the early postoperative period, which can persist for over a year or two before it settles. The longer you wait, the softer the scar tissue becomes, making it generally easier to re-operate later as opposed to sooner.

You are correct in stating that it is too early to judge the final results of your rhinoplasty.  From your description, it sounds like your surgeon placed a tip graft. If it was not sutured in (usually in closed rhinoplasty it isn't), the tip graft can be removed fairly easily.

In the event that full healing has taken place on the nose and indeed the patient does not like their new tip rhinoplasty because it appears longer, old cartilage grafts can be removed from the tip of a nose to restore the tip back to its normal preoperative state.

In all rhinoplasty surgeries, there is a period of healing that must pass before the result can be judged. If grafts were used to build up the tip, then waiting is even more critical. All grafts take time to settle and incorporate back into the body. Usually they are a little stiff for the first few months, which can make them seem both more effective and also less natural. However, over time they soften and the effects of the grafts do decrease. If you wait a little while, I am sure your... more

Hi YJB, Yes, after about a year if you are still displeased with the size of your tip, the cartilage may be refined, removed, or relocated. It would involve a revision surgery. Let your surgeon know about your concerns, and be patient. Often things settle down over time, and hopefully you won't need further surgery. Good luck and be well. Dr. P