Where Does Donor Rib Cartilage Come From?

Rib cartilage can sometimes be used for rhinoplasty surgery. Usually this cartilage is harvested from the ribs of the person having the rhinoplasty. Occasionally, cadaveric cartilage can also be used. The cartilage does not come from other living donors like kidneys, for instance.

Donor rib cartilage is preferably taken from your rib when needed and is typically used for reconstruction of the dorsum (bridge) of the nose. Some surgeons will still occasionally use irradiated cartilage from a cadaver which reduces the likelihood of an allergic reaction as well as sterilizing the product.. However, there is controversy on the longevity and survival of these grafts.