How long does it take for cadaver rib graft in nose revision surgery to resorb?

Question

There is conflicting information on cadaver rib vs. your own rib for revision rhinoplasty. Right now I would only like to focus on the risk of resorption in the tip area. Does cadaver rib in this rib often resorb? If so, how much and how long does it take t resorb? Could it last a lifetime so I will not require another surgery if it resorbs? If you had patients with cadaver rib grafts placed in tip area, did the grafts last?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear winnieCadaveric rib is not usually used for tip reconstruction, as it lacks the right characteristics, but rather for nasal dorsum. It is not commonly used and most surgeons prefer your own cartilage(rib or other). The rate of resorption is highest in areas of pressure and tension, hence the tip is not a good place for it. If your primary goal is tip work and your surgeon is recommending cadaveric rib as first choice, you should consider other opinions.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Cadaver rib grafts are not living tissue, and so their resorption rate is high over time.  Using your own rib usually results in no resporption at all, because the cartilage is living and regains a blood supply from the surrounding tissue. Cartilage grafts when taken from your own body are highly successful.  Cadaver rib grafts have been disappointing over time.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Long lasting effect of cadaver vs. your own rib grafts should be similar; they should resorb minimally in the lifetime. However, both of these grafts have propensity to warp (deform). Usually rib graft is used for reconstruction of the dorsum of the nose, not tip itself. Finer and more elastic cartilage grafts taken from the nasal septum or ear are frequently used for tip reconstruction. In rear occasions when source of graft material from nose and ear is exhausted, rib cartilage may be used for tip reconstruction.It is always better to use patient own grafts in my experience, providing that harvest of the graft is not creating significant donor site deformity.You should discuss these issues with your plastic surgeon or eventually, seek a second opinion consult before undergoing what appears to be a major nose revision (reconstruction) surgery. Good luck.

Jay M. Pensler, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Interesting question.First there will be resorption of a cadaver rib graft. The issue is not will there be resorption the issue is what will the rate of resorption be. The rate of resorption is highly variable. There are a number of alternative options depending on the specifics of your case. The options range from ear cartilage  or septal cartilage on the least traumatic end to your rib or alloplastic options.

How long does it take for cadaver rib graft in nose revision surgery to resorb?

Answers (4)

More Revision Rhinoplasty Questions

Is it possible to make the alar rim thinner? (photos)

Can adding volume to the nasal tip make it look smaller? (Photo)

Will a columella tuck help my nostrils not show in front and on side profile? Or will I need a revision? (photo)

Should I get a slight curve in my nose in my revision rhino?

What do I need for my revision?

Revision/tip rhinoplasty wanted for uneven, cartilagey projection on one side of nose tip? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS