Can I use someone else’s nose cartilage for my revision rhinoplasty?

There are no protocols in place for utilizing a siblings nasal septal cartilage outside of her own surgery. When we need to perform revision rhinoplasty, and if there is a paucity of septal cartilage, we simply purchase a piece of rib cartilage from the musculoskeletal tissue foundation, MTF. This saves time, and we believe it to be a much better option than your ear cartilage, or your own rib cartilage. Plus, sister may need her septal cartilage for her own rhinoplasty! Wishing you well moving forward. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Hello and thank you for your question. That is just a terrible idea. I am not sure why any experienced board-certified real rhinoplasty surgeon would ever even suggest this. You and your sister should find a different surgeon. That is just not safe at all. For a revision, if you don’t have your own septal cartilage left, then MTF cartilage is a much better and safer option. 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