Nasal valve fix. Will it last forever if I used my own rib cartilage?

Question

Hi, I have some inner nasal valve issues and due to that I’ve been offered to go through a rib cartilage(mine) implantation in order fix that. I’m wondering, based on the fact that it’s my own rib cartilage, can it last forever? Second thing, would I be able to make contact sports after the healing phase?

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks dod12 for your question! Because they are made of your own tissue, rib cartilage transplants have a good chance of lasting. In contrast to synthetic implants, they are less likely to be rejected by your body. A number of variables, including as surgical technique, post-operative care, and individual healing responses, might affect how long the graft lasts.
In certain situations, the cartilage may gradually resorb (degrade) over time. However, this is often negligible and has little bearing on the surgery's functional or cosmetic results.
In relation to contact sports: Most patients are able to resume their regular activities, including contact sports, following the healing process.
To receive individualized and customized guidance and suggestion based on your unique situation and recovery status, it is imperative that you speak with your surgeon. They can offer advice on when it's best to start exercising again.
 Even though playing contact sports is usually safe after recovery, there is always a chance that any part of your body, including the grafted region, might get hurt.
The most precise and current information on your particular circumstance will be provided by your surgeon. If you have any questions or concerns, don't be afraid to ask them.
As a triple Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, I also specialize in revision rhinoplasty. This complex procedure requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of facial and nasal anatomy. I am committed to correcting imperfections and restoring both the form and function of the nose. My philospphy is to listen carefully to the goals and desirers of my patients with a focus on patient satisfaction, I utilize advanced techniques to achieve natural-looking and long-lasting results.
Hope this was helpful!
Best wishes,
Dr Ali Sajjadian 
TRIPLE Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Over 25 years of performing rhinoplasty surgery and revision rhinoplasty surgery, we have come across viable grafts that are indeed alive and may be repurposed. Sometimes, we explore a patient after previous surgery, and a graft that was supposed to be present, is completely invisible, or perhaps it was never put in the first place. 25 years of using cartilage grafts routinely during rhinoplasty surgery, the majority of cartilage grafts from the septum, or from the rib, last indefinitely.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   When good technique is used, this should have a lasting effect.  I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Nasal valve fix. Will it last forever if I used my own rib cartilage?

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Nasal valve fix. Will it last forever if I used my own rib cartilage?

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