Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Question

Hi, I am a 19-year-old Asian with very thick skin. I have had multiple consultations, and almost all the doctors said that rib cartilage is the only option to augment my nose bridge. But I am really concerned with the donor site. Will rib harvesting procedure affect the function of my rib? Will my rib be more likely to break? The procedure sounds a bit scary. Please explain it to me. Thanks a lot!

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

A small portion of the cartilaginous portion of the rib is taken (for my patients usually 4 cm from the right 6th rib).  You will not have any untoward effects in terms of health or function, and this is well tolerated even in my patients who are professional boxers and mixed-martial artists.  The biggest downside to have rib cartilage harvested is a thin 2 cm scar which will be present in the crease under your right breast.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Asian rhinoplasty without using rib cartilage is something I have done for 35 years. I use only septal and ear cartilage and have never had to use rib. Choose an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who does many revisions without using rib.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Your concerns are quiet understandable! The diagram you posted, which is very nice, shows that only the portion of the rib that connects to the sternum is cartilage, the rest is bone.  The cartilaginous portion  most likely exists to facilitate the rib's movement as we breath, and it is not associated with strength of the rib and therefore it's absence will not weaken the remaining rib(s). The alternatives to your own rib cartilage include diced ear and septal cartilage, irradiated cadaver cartilage, or a solid silicone elastomer implant. They each have their own benefits and limitations, which makes each the 'correct choice' depending on the patient's anatomy and needs.Best of luck!

Richard Chaffoo, MD, FACS, FICS · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question. In my 30 years' experience with rhinoplasty, I have rarely found it necessary to recommend the use of rib grafts to augment the nose in Asian patients. I have been very happy with the use of ear cartilage and septal grafts to provide an excellent aesthetic result without the complications of harvesting rib grafts in most cases. See a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and experienced in rhinoplasty surgery. Best of luck!

Brian J. Reagan, MD · Answer

Rib is preferred by some surgeons for source of  cartilage to augment an Asian nasal dorsum.  Other surgeons like to avoid rib if possible.  Harvesting rib cartilage will not weaken your chest wall.  Some anxiety regarding an upcoming surgical procedure is normal. Its good that you have gone on multiple consultations.  Have confidence in your selection of surgeon and try and relax.  All the Best,Dr. Brian Reagan

Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answer: Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answer: Rib Cartilage for Rhino

Answer: Rib Cartilage for Rhino

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Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

Answer: Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answer: Will my rib cartilage become weaker after rib-harvesting rhinoplasty?

Answer: Rib Cartilage for Rhino

Answer: Rib Cartilage for Rhino

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Asian Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.