Ear cartilage for rhinoplasty after otoplasty - could harvesting it cause problems?

Question

Hi! I am considering undergoing a rhinoplasty, with an intention of possibly using the cartilage from my ear. However, I have had recently underwent an otoplasty with Mustardé technique. Therefore , I was wondering if harvasting the ear cartilage graft will cause problems / interfere with the sutures.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, that's a great question. Technically yes, in theory one could obtain conchal cartilage with a skin incision on the anterolateral surface of the ear, but it would be fraught with potential for a problem, especially if the Mustarde sutures are encountered. Even if harvested perfectly, unexpected things may happen with the ear. For example, there are variations on otoplasty that can compromise the integrity of conchal cartilage or that rely on the position of conchal cartilage in relation to the skull to maintain the projection/appearance of the ear. I would strongly advise an alternative source of cartilage, if needed, from the nasal septum or autologous rib.
Cheers,Dr. Tower

Celal Alioglu, MD · Answer

Hello first we need to see if you will need cartilage to do your nose surgery if yes we can also take the cartilage from your ribs just small one.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Rib cartilage provides an abundant amount of cartilage compared to ear cartilage or septal cartilage, especially for major reconstruction or structural support seen in Asian rhinoplasty. Although harvesting ear cartilage would certainly be possible, results are very surgeon dependent, so choosing the right surgeon is important. Consult with 2-3 of these surgeons in person and determine your comfort level with their approach, demeanor, and before and after results. Good luck! @drdonyoo @asianrhinoplasty

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There's no reason to use ear cartilage for rhinoplasty when the nose has plenty of cartilage intact. Nasal cartilage works much better than ear cartilage for any type of grafting purposes inside the nose.

Ear cartilage for rhinoplasty after otoplasty - could harvesting it cause problems?

Answers (4)

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