I Would Like to Have my Septal Extension Grafts Removed.What Are the Risks? (photo)

Question

I am an asian who had a tip rhinoplasty 3 months ago and strongly dislike the stiffness brought by the caudal septal extension grafts.However,the changes are not noticeable.I have discussed with my surgeon about a revision rhinoplasty to remove it.He told me it is possible to take it out and return to the previous nose.Perhaps he would leaves some cartilage as columellar strut to support the tip.Would columellar strut grafts be good instead of caudal septal extension grafts?Is it really risky?

David W. Kim, MD · Answer

The septal extension graft is supporting your nasal tip structures.  In order to place the graft, your surgeon had to separate the tip cartilages from one another to access the septum and then reconnect (with suture) your tip cartilages onto the graft. If the graft is removed, there would be a risk that the tip would lose support and projection.  A columellar strut may prevent or mitigate the loss of projection, but it depends on the strength of your native tip cartilages. I would discuss this in detail with your surgeon.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

I wouldn't advise touching your nose this early after surgery.  It's normal for the nose to feel stiff and almost artificially fake after having a septal extension graft placed.  This will soften over the course of the year as your nose heals.  Unlike other grafts (such as rim grafts) that are not sutured to other structures and can be easily removed, a septal extension graft is secured to your tip cartilages so your tip will need to be put back together once removed.

I Would Like to Have my Septal Extension Grafts Removed.What Are the Risks? (photo)

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I Would Like to Have my Septal Extension Grafts Removed.What Are the Risks? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Asian Rhinoplasty

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