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

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.  

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.

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!

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!

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  

Taking out a small portion of the rib will not affect the structural integrity of the rib cage. There will be significant pain associated with it for 6 weeks after the procedure, especially when taking a deep breath. There are multiple options other than rib cartilage that can be entertained for augmenting the dorsal bridge  in the Asian patient

Rib cartilage isn't the only option to augment an Asian nose but it also depends on how much you are looking to augment the nasal height and tip.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.  3-dimensional computer imaging will also help you visualize what you may look like afterwards and serve as an important communication tool with your surgeon.

I disagree that ribs are the only source of cartilage to augment the nasal bridge in an Asian patient.In fact I try to avoid rib cartilage because of increased post operative pain and possible complications such as scarring. For man years I've used diced cartilage/fascia grafts harvested from the septum and ears with consistent excellent results.