Can you do a secondary rib cartilage graft for rhinoplasty?

You should NOT need another rib graft. The rib graft u have can be reshaped and septal or ear cartilage can be added if needed.

If you were interested in undergoing an additional rhinoplasty procedure that required more cartilage then you would likely need to undergo a second rib cartilage harvest.  The cartilage within your nose may be able to be salvaged but I wouldn't depend on that. Good luck!

Hi jam35r2, Thanks for your question. This is highly dependent on the individual case and how much cartilage was used from your first rib graft surgery. If enough was placed, you can probably use the cartilage that is in the nose. Good luck!

Depending on how much rib cartilage was used in your initial surgery, the cartilage can be reused and may be sufficient for what you are trying to achieve.  It all depends on how much cartilage is needed to obtain the results you seek.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can help you achieve the results you seek.  3-dimensional computer imaging can also help you visualize what you may look like afterwards and serve as an important communication tool with your surgeon.

Revision or Secondary rhinoplasty is a surgery to change the shape of your nose after you have already had a previous rhinoplasty. Depending on the goals of the surgery, you may or may not need additional cartilage grafts. In revision surgery, grafts may be removed, adjusted, or repurposed for other grafts. If there is a need for a graft that is long and strong, another rib may be harvested. It may be harvested from the same side as the previous rib harvest or the surgeon may go to the other side. I would recommend talking to the surgeon who did your first rib harvest rhinoplasty or surgeon who is experienced in revision rhinoplasty and rib cartilage harvest. Safety comes first.