Can extra cartilage be removed from the nose after rhinoplasty?

Question

I had rhinoplasty 4 years ago for a downward tip and the doctor put extra cartilage in my tip (I guess he thought I needed it). For the past four years, the cartilage has prevented me from being able to properly blow my nose. Snot gets stuck in the cartilage. Can this extra cartilage that he placed inside there easily be removed? I do not want to have another operation if it is going to be horrible again, but I can't live like this anymore.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say without photos, but the procedure to remove extra cartilage is usually much smaller than the original rhinoplasty. The best thing to do is to see a rhinoplasty specialist for consultation to determine if it will be easy or not.

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Yes nasal tip cartilage grafts can be trimmed, reshaped and removed.  You may only require a miner procedure rather than a full revision rhinoplasty.  See your surgeon and possibly seek a second opinion prior to having more work done on your nose.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is possible to remove cartilage from the nose after rhinoplasty.  Over a period of time the cartilage can become incorporated and almost a part of the nose.  However, gentle shave excision off the cartilage and some of the scar tissue can reduce the bulge in any area that is causing difficulty with breathing.RegardsDr. J

Samir Undavia, MD · Answer

Yes, the simple is answer is that the tip graft can be removed. However I can't be sure about whether it should be removed with a physical exam. There may be other reasons for mucus getting stuck in you nose.  Also remember that removing the tip graft might alter the way your nose appears. Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Cartilage grafts become incorporated into the tissues and many times need to be trimmed out. This can be difficult in some situations.

Can extra cartilage be removed from the nose after rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tip graft and revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Tip graft and revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Cartilage graft

Answer: Cartilage graft

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.

Can extra cartilage be removed from the nose after rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tip graft and revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Tip graft and revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Cartilage graft

Answer: Cartilage graft

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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.