Will cartilage last as long as a graft when used in the nose bridge and nose tip?

Question

If used to augment a nose bridge and refine the nose tip, is one’s own ear cartilage a permanent rhinoplasty result? While I have found numerous studies comparing the resorption rates of autologous rib cartilage vs irradiated rib cartilage, I cannot find any studies that report the long term resorption rates of autologous ear cartilage.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Patient own tissue in the form of autograft (cartilage, bone, tendon) is the best reconstructive material when needed. This applys in particular for cartilage grafts, usually taken from septum, in rhinoplasty. Resoption rate with most of these grafts is minimal, possibly with exception of diced cartilage. Hope this helps.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

In answer to your question, ear cartilage is an effective and versatile graft used in rhinoplasty surgery.  It has a low complication rate with minimal to no resorption.  In your specific case, the main drawback of ear cartilage is that there may not be enough cartilage in one ear to augment both the nasal bridge and tip.  Ear cartilage also does not have as much strength as rib cartilage, so rib cartilage may be chosen if you needed more support of the nasal tip or bridge.  I would recommend discussing your concerns with your surgeon.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! Great question. Ear cartilage should have little resorption over time similar to that of septum. Irradiated rib can resorb in some instances at a higher rate because it really isn't living tissue. It can be viewed as more of a foreign body compared with using your own rib. If treated carefully, ear cartilage should have lasting results. Hope that helps.

Will cartilage last as long as a graft when used in the nose bridge and nose tip?

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