How Big Is The Scar On My Chest After Rib Graft Revision Rhinoplasty?

The scar in rib rhinoplasty varies by patient's body type and surgeon's experience harvesting rib.  Larger patients often require a larger incision.  A downside to a larger scar is patient's seem to have more discomfort post operatively and the scar can be more visible.  Surgeon's scar length will vary from 1 to 8 cm based on their experience.  Most experienced rib rhinoplasty surgeon's utilize a 1-3 cm incision.Cartilage in rhinoplasty is used for support and structure to the nose. The three most commonly used donor areas in rhinoplasty areSeptal cartilage (often missing in revision rhinoplasty) and made of fibroelastic cartilageEar cartilage -softer cartilage and is elastic type of cartilage (hence softer and likely to bend)Rib or costal cartilage- firmer cartilage and similar in makeup as septal cartilageThe main risks of harvesting costal cartilage are as follows:Warping-This risk can be minimized with experience of carving rhinoplasty, patients with calcifications in the rib, and the location and type of graft placementScar- The scar size can be minimized based on the patient's body type (thinner patients can have a smaller scar) and surgeon's experience with more advanced surgeon's harvesting from 1-3 cm rib scarsPneumothorax- This is where a lung deflates since the surgeon is working around the rib site. This is rare but the surgeon must be able to handle this risk.Breast implant violation- Patients with breast implants may be at risk for a "popped" implant although this is unlikelyAlthough there are some risks with rib cartilage, the benefits can often outweigh the risks as it costal cartilage is strong and abundant in younger and middle aged patients. For revision rhinoplasty, patients should seek out surgeons with experience in using rib cartilage as results may be compromised without enough cartilage or the sole use of ear cartilage in certain circumstances.

The scar left after harvesting rib cartilage is minimal. The cost of a revision rhinoplasty can range from $12,000 - $20,000 depending on the individual circumstances of the patient. When looking for board certified revision rhinoplasty specialists in the area, take a look at their before and after photos for revision cases. It may state whether rib cartilage was used. This can give you an idea of how frequently the surgeon uses the technique. In general, when looking for a revision rhinoplasty specialist, you will want to take the following into consideration: 1) They have many before and after photos so you can get an idea of the surgeon's results. 2) Great patient testimonials. 3) Fantastic credentials and a good amount of experience. Please feel free to ask any additional questions. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

    The scar can be hidden in the inframammary fold and it is a few cm long.  You may or may not need rib graft for your particular problem.  You should be examined by to determine if this is your best option.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA