What Are the Implications of Having Weak Nasal Cartilage in Rhinoplasty?

Weak nasal cartilage usually means that the cartilages are very thin and atrophic and are easily collapsible. Certain types of grafts, such as a spreader graft, are used to bolster and strengthen and slightly widen the area of the nose where they are placed.  They only appear slightly larger.  At the time of your consultation for your rhinoplasty surgery, examination of the presenting anatomy will determine whether grafts are needed.

Weak cartilage is actually a phrase I use often when describing cartilage quality to my patients. Cartilage can be weak in that it is thin, damaged (by previous rhinoplasty), or is in an improper angle/orientation.  All this can be altered and should be worked on during your procedure to prevent future problems and need for revision surgery. Adding cartilage or re-arranging the cartilage you already have is key. I often have to completely re-sculpt, relocate, augment,  or re-orient existing cartilage to create strength and shape that is aesthetically pleasing, simultaneously. You CANNOT have aesthetic nasal shaping without also maintaining or improving strength.