Can ear cartilage used for a rim graft warp over time?

Question

I have one slightly retracted nostril from my first rhinoplasty, along with a hanging columella. It has been 12 years since my surgery and finally have the courage to fix it. I want to have the least amount of risk as possible with my revision, and do not want to go through this ever again. So, I am wondering if it is even worth it to put ear cartilage in to fix my nostril...or will I have to worry about it warping or shifting over time?

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

Ear cartilage graft in revision Rhinoplasty

Properly performed secondary Rhinoplasty can significantly improve the 
appearance of the nose.  In your particular case both hanging columella and alar 
retraction can be corrected.  Once it heals properly, it is very unlikely that 
the graft would warp.  Seek our an experienced and talented Rhinoplasty surgeon 
that can correctly asses your deformity and present to you a well thought out 
plan for correction.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I would recommend that you post pictures or have an exam.  Sometimes a bit of asymmetry is not worth another operation.    This all comes down to degree, and it is easy to tell if a revision would help if this can be assessed visually.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Well chosen cartilage for alar grafting, either from the septum or the ear, placed and secured well, just have a very low risk of warping. There can never be a guaratee with any surgery, but typically, in well trained hands this risk should be minimal. I hope you are happy with your new change.

Travis T. Tollefson, MD, MPH · Answer

Dear RobincastThanks for the question.  cartilage grafts from any source will change over time because the body heals around them and integrates them into the nose.the amount of warping and resorption is difficult to guess, but proper position and blood supply help maintain the shape they are intended to create. The ear cartilage grafts are great options for certain areas.Your surgical consult will help explain the details about what is needed to meet your goals. Best Wishes

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Nasal cartilage or ear  Cartilage can both be used to support alar rim. We prefer nasal cartilage, but if the nose has been depleted of cartilage from previous surgery, then your ear cartilage is acceptable.

Can ear cartilage used for a rim graft warp over time?

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Answer: Ear Cartilage use in rhinoplasty

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Answer: Ear cartilage graft used as an alar rim support

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Can ear cartilage used for a rim graft warp over time?

Answers (6)

Answer: Ear Cartilage use in rhinoplasty

Answer: Ear Cartilage use in rhinoplasty

Answer: Ear cartilage graft used as an alar rim support

Answer: Ear cartilage graft used as an alar rim support

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.