Revision Rhinoplasty w Cartilage grafts infection rate higher? Can the grafts shift later on or do they settle in place securely

After the first couple weeks the rate of infection goes down significantly.  Not quite to zero, but pretty close.  The grafts have also fused to the covering soft tissue and surrounding cartilage so they won't migrate.  However, if the grafts are bearing some load (pressure or weight) due to the changes they are supporting, there can be changes in the shape of the nose over time, even beyond the initial few weeks to months.  The more load a graft bears (for example if the strut at the tip is pushing the tip forward a lot), the greater the chance there can be some settling.  The strength and stiffness of the graft play a role in how much load the graft can take and the chance of settling.

Dear Hope4Nose,In general, infections occur shortly after surgery, if they occur at allYou are correct that implants made of foreign material have a slightly higher rate of infectionAt 3 weeks out, the chances of infection are minimalEnjoy your new nose!Best,Dr. Nima

Cartilage grafts have a very low likelihood of becoming infected. Overall they are a very safe and helpful option when people need them. There is no increased risk of any infections years after surgery. They integrate into the surrounding tissue as the nose heals and scar tissue develops. The only down side with ear cartilage is that it is not very strong and it is curved. For use as spreader grafts, it is totally fine. Each type of cartilage has different pluses and minuses, these are the things your surgeon needs to decide during your case. If you have specific questions, I would direct them to your surgeon since they know what was done. Best of luck