Spreader graft question. Are they are held on by stitches?

Hello and thank you for your question.  Spreader grafts must be sutured in place in order to ensure a stable longterm result.  A precise pocket dissection is also important.  I frequently use spreader grafts to straighten the asymmetric nose and to help improve breathing.  I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.Best wishes and good luck.Richard G. Reish, M.D.Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Via the open approach, spreader grafts are secured in place during surgery with sutures. This ensures they stay where intended during the healing process. Typically long lasting dissolvable sutures or permanent sutures are used but the healing process causes surrounding scar tissue to form which further helps secure the grafts.In some cases spreader grafts can be placed during a closed rhinoplasty. For these cases they are slipped into a pocket similar to what you described. 

If the spreader grafts are placed through an open rhinoplasty, sutures are placed to keep them immobile during the healing period.  Most surgeons use long lasting absorbable sutures because over time the grafts will become fused to the surrounding structures through normal scar formation and fibrosis. 

Spreader
grafts are held in place depending on the conduct of the operation. During open
rhinoplasties they are usually sewn to the septum to keep them in place. Once
healing is complete the surrounding tissues maintain their position.

During closed procedures the pockets are made
just large enough to accommodate the grafts and thereby keep them in place.

Spreader grafts is a technique commonly used in rhinoplasty. The cartilage added to the dorsal strut of the nose can help strengthen and straighten the bridge. It can also improve breathing through the nose. There are a few ways spreader grafts can be secured in place. They can be slipped into a tight pocket, sutured (stitched) into place, or a combination of both. Over time the cartilage spreader graft will scar into place and connect with blood vessels which keep it alive and prevent it from absorbing. It is very secure at that point. If you have further questions regarding specific techniques, I recommend that you talk with your surgeon, who can show you more on a photograph or diagram.