Can rib cartilage be used for closed rhinoplasty?

Question

Hi, I am wondering if it's possible to lengthen the nose with rib cartilage through closed rhinoplasty.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty to lengthen the nose via closed rhinoplasty? Yes--but for 35 years of rhinoplasty I have not needed a rib graft to do this. It is usually possible to get the cartilage that is needed from the septum and/or ear. This is far less costly and MUCH less painful!

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

It may be unnecessary to use rib cartilage to lengthen the nose, as septal cartilage can often be used to do this.  I recommend consulting with a Board-Certified plastic surgeon who will accurately examine your nose, create a simulation based on what your nose could look like after surgery, and develop a plan tailored to your needs and wishes.  Good luck!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I personally don't use rib cartilage anymore for a rhinoplasty even when lengthening the nose. Nevertheless it can be done three closed rhinoplasty. My own practice I prefer the open approach.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Yes, there is no reason why an experienced Rhinoplasty
surgeon can not use rib graft in a closed procedure. It depends on what it is
being used for and what the goals are, but it can be done.

Curtis Perry, MD · Answer

Rib cartilage can certainly be used via the closed approach. But septal and ear cartilage is prefered if available.

Brian J. Reagan, MD · Answer

Yes, a septal extension rib graft can be performed with the closed approach.  But I would seek out a revision rhinoplasty expert who is confident with your surgery and let him/her perform the case the way they deem most appropriate.  The answer lies with the skill of the surgeon, not the approach of the surgery.All the Best,Dr. Brian Reagan

Andrew Winkler, MD · Answer

Rib cartilage is often used in revision rhinoplasty surgery.  The reasons to use rib cartilage include:TONS of useable cartilageStrong cartilageMinimal scar at the donor siteIts your own tissueUsing your own cartilage is always preferable to using cadaver cartilage or synthetic material. If septal cartilage is present, that should be used first (if there's enough and its straight).  Many surgeon's don't like using rib because they are afraid of getting a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) when harvesting it. However, if your rhinoplasty surgeon is experienced, the risk of this is very low.Typically, when rib graft is being considered, the amount of work that needs to be done is considerable.  In my opinion, this is best done in an open fashion.  Good luck!

David Reinstadler, MD · Answer

It is possible but usually not the best idea. If you really need to lengthen the nose and need to use rib cartilage, it is better (in my opinion) to perform an open procedure so the entire skin envelope can be freed and more precise movement of the underlying structure is possible. You should have this discussion in person with your rhinoplasty surgeon as their experience and preference will differ from the many opinions you will receive here. Best of luck

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for your question and the simple answer is YES and I  have done it several times though the use of septal cartilage, if available, is preferableDr Corbin

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes rib cartilage can be used to lengthen your nose using the closed technique. However, I question the need to use rib cartilage. I do a lot of revision rhinoplasties but very rarely use  the rib because of possible scarring, pain,  and complicatons which can be avoided with septal or ear cartilage.

Can rib cartilage be used for closed rhinoplasty?

Answers (10)

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