What can be done about visible cartilage graft? Revision rhinoplasty to fix a small dent near tip of my nose. (Photo)

Question

A cartilage graft was added but it has made my nose look worse than before. The graft is very visible and I hate how it looks. I want to know if I have alternative options rather than having another surgery. I want to know if I have any non-surgical options to remove the graft or make its appearance less visible. I appreciate everyone's feedback to this question. Thanks

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

It is a little hard to tell from the photo, but oftentimes, a filler can be placed in the nose to hide irregularities. Surgery would be needed to remove the graft, but it shouldn't be too extensive to simply remove the graft. Be sure to see a rhinoplasty specialist for consultation.

Bahman Guyuron, MD · Answer

Tip asymmetry is extremely common. The two cartilages that support the tip can be very different and cause dents and unevenness that you see. These can be easily corrected.

Christian Paquet, MD · Answer

Hi markredd,
If it is truly cartilage that is resulting in the visible rise, then the only option is to likely have it surgically removed.  Perhaps you could attempt to camouflage the sides using filler, but you would still be adding volume which I do not think you would be happy with.
Best,
Dr. Paquet

Julie Edween, DO · Answer

markeredd,Revision surgery would be your best treatment to remove or make the graft look less visible.  As far as nonsurgical options, you may want to consider blending in the edges of the graft with an injectable filler product.  Best of luck!Dr. Julie Edween

Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD · Answer

With the limited photograph you provided, it is difficult to make specific recommendations for your case.  However, in general, the treatment for a prominent or malpositioned cartilage graft would be with a revision surgery.  To prevent visibility of appropriately positioned cartilage grafts under thin skin, a fascia graft can be used.  Small irregularities on the dorsum of the nose can be camouflaged with filler when the underlying cartilage structure is well positioned, but this is not usually the best option if the underlying cartilage structure needs improvement, especially in the tip.  Tip asymmetry is usually best managed with repositioning and shaping of the tip cartilages.
Best regards,
Ziyad Hammoudeh, MD

Michael L. Schwartz, MD · Answer

Difficult to say for sure with this limited photo and not being able to see your whole nose and its balance with the face. Small amounts of filler can sometimes camouflage irregularities but usually revision surgery is needed.

What can be done about visible cartilage graft? Revision rhinoplasty to fix a small dent near tip of my nose. (Photo)

Answers (6)

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