How much conchal cartilage is typically removed/needed for a nose tip graft?

The amount of cartilage that is removed from the ear is largely dependent upon what needs to be done during rhinoplasty surgery revision. If a total tip reconstruction needs to be performed, sometimes all of the concha is taken. Most people do not miss having this cartilage and it should not lead to changes in the shape of the year. For the last several years, we prefer using cadaver rib cartilage from the musculoskeletal tissue foundation in New Jersey. It comes in pre-cut sheets that are particularly useful for nasal tip reconstruction. Thank you. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Hello and thank you for your question. I usually don’t recommend using ear cartilage at all, as it lacks the structural stability needed for supportive grafts. There are many better options available depending on your anatomy. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

It's always very important to try and use nasal cartilage first when performing a rhinoplasty or revision rhinoplasty. If the entire nose has been depleted of cartilage, then consider a graft from the ear. The amount of cartilage needed from either the nose or the ear is directly related to what type of grafts are going to be required in the nasal tip