Do the ULC’s follow the bone in an open reduction of nasal fracture? (Photo)

Based on your limited photo, you appear to have a reverse C-shaped appearance to your nose. Sometimes the upper lateral cartilage does indeed follow the nasal bone and lead to a straight appearance. Sometimes a cartilage spreader graft is necessary on the concave side, especially when this is after trauma. Please consider meeting with a reputable rhinoplasty specialist if you are considering surgery. Thank you for this question. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

The ULC's are not attached to the bone. If you are having an open reduction of your bone then at the same time the ULC's can be repositioned as needed. Most likely grafts are not necessary.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

When a nasal fracture is reduced using osteotomies, the upper lateral cartilages do usually move with the bones as they are attached. However, after moving the bones, it's possible that the cartilage may still be crooked which might necessitate cartilage grafting to help straighten everything. That's why it's very important to see a rhinoplasty specialist for this procedure.