My ENT is referring me to a plastic surgeon for nasal valve collapse correction. It is quite severe even at rest. I have already nasal nerve damage and dryness. Is there some risk of further damage using septal cartilage and if so is ear cartilage acceptable for alar batten grafts?
December 6, 2016
Answer: Septal cartilage usually best for nasal surgery Septal cartilage is considered by most to be the preferred source for nasal surgery grafts. It is in the same operative field, there is little donor site morbidity if properly harvested, and it is rigid enough to provide needed support. If it is not available, ear cartilage is acceptable. Rib can be used, but is much more involved. If the tip cartilages have not been trimmed and are of adequate size, they can be turned over upon themselves for external valve surgery or rotated superiorly for the internal valves. Upper lateral cartilage, if sufficient, can also be turned in upon itself as a spreader flap and avoid septum use.
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December 6, 2016
Answer: Septal cartilage usually best for nasal surgery Septal cartilage is considered by most to be the preferred source for nasal surgery grafts. It is in the same operative field, there is little donor site morbidity if properly harvested, and it is rigid enough to provide needed support. If it is not available, ear cartilage is acceptable. Rib can be used, but is much more involved. If the tip cartilages have not been trimmed and are of adequate size, they can be turned over upon themselves for external valve surgery or rotated superiorly for the internal valves. Upper lateral cartilage, if sufficient, can also be turned in upon itself as a spreader flap and avoid septum use.
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December 6, 2016
Answer: Nasal Valve Collapse Repair I prefer nasal septal cartilage over ear cartilage for alar batten graft repair of alar nasal valve collapse. If you have already had surgery on your septum and do not have enough cartilage material for safely harvesting the grafts, then ear cartilage, rib cartilage or irradiated donor rib cartilage can also be considered. An experienced rhinoplasty specialist can help recommend your best options by examining your nose and reviewing your medical history. Nasal dryness is a separate but perhaps related issue, and may require medical topical washes, alternation of Rx antihistamines and other measures to address. Best wishes.
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December 6, 2016
Answer: Nasal Valve Collapse Repair I prefer nasal septal cartilage over ear cartilage for alar batten graft repair of alar nasal valve collapse. If you have already had surgery on your septum and do not have enough cartilage material for safely harvesting the grafts, then ear cartilage, rib cartilage or irradiated donor rib cartilage can also be considered. An experienced rhinoplasty specialist can help recommend your best options by examining your nose and reviewing your medical history. Nasal dryness is a separate but perhaps related issue, and may require medical topical washes, alternation of Rx antihistamines and other measures to address. Best wishes.
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