How would I know if there's exposed cartilage after rhinoplasty? (Photo)

It does look like exposed cartilage inside your nostril.  This would be highly unusual as the incisions that are normally used would not exposed cartilage in this area.  I would have your surgeon examine you.  Exposed cartilage will become infected and necrose so you would want this corrected if it were the case.  Best wishes, Dr. T. 

Hello.  It's pretty rare to see exposed cartilages after rhinoplasty.  More likely, you're seeing the edge of cartilage with thin overlying skin.  Exposed cartilage (assuming your own and not from cadaver) typically will heal on its own with good wound care.  Foreign implants may extrude and patients will see purulent drainage, pain, fevers, etc.  The best thing to make sure is to see your surgeon for an in office exam.  Take care

Thank you for you question and photos. Exposed cartilage is very uncommon at this point and would usually be present along the marginal incision (lower than what you have shown). The area that you see is the lower border or the upper lateral cartilage and it appears covered. Usually, an incision is not made in this area if an open approach is used ( you had an open approach based on your columella scar).  Ultimately, I would recommend that you reach out to your surgeon and have him take a look to confirm this impression and alleviate your concerns. Hope this helps. Take care.