Can ear cartilage be inserted back into ear?

Question

As part of a rhinoplasty procedure I had ear cartilage removed from the back of the ear for a graft. It has been over a year since surgery and the discomfort remains. Is this likely to be due to scarring? If so, can this be treated? Also, can cartilage - whether the original cartilage in my nose, rib cartilage, cadaveric cartilage or any other material be inserted back into the ear?

Daniel A. Barker, MD · Answer

Cartilage could be placed in the ear but I don't think that it would help with the discomfort. I would not recommend taking the cartilage out of the nose unless you have a problem with the nose. I would look for other treatments besides replacing the cartilage. Usually you might just need to remove a little extra cartilage if there is a place that is causing some rubbing or discomfort.

Can ear cartilage be inserted back into ear?

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