Do spreader grafts change the shape of the nose ?

Hello and thank you for your question. It depends on how the spreader grafts are placed and the desired goals of the patient. For example, spreader grafts can be placed lower on the septum to avoid widening the mid-vault when needed. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Spreader graphs, as you have already noted, are used to open up the internal valve, which may have collapsed after a previous rhinoplasty. A spreader graft is usually only approximately 2 mm thick and therefore the nasal dorsum will get slightly wider with placement of spreader graphs. Well placed spreader graphs can improve the dorsal aesthetic lines of a nose as well as improve breathing. Your plastic surgeon should be able to describe to you the approximate results of placing one or two spread graphs on your nasal dorsum. Best wishes.