Adding Rib Graft to Make Nose Bridge Larger?

The role of rib grafts in rhinoplasty is to add significant dorsal augmentation, projection, and for reshaping especially in ethnic noses or secondary rhinoplasty. This does require an additional donor site. It has some discomfort, but it is overall a good operative procedure that must be done in the hands of an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon.

In revision rhinoplasty, it is usually necessary to reconstruct and reshape the nasal framework using cartilage grafts. Because available septal cartilage has usually been removed during the first surgery, grafts must obtained from another site - either the ear or the rib.
Rib cartilage has many uses and advantages in revision rhinoplasty. It can be carved or shaped to the desired configuration. Its rigidity can provide support to a weakend nasal framework. It works particularly well for building up (augmentation) a low bridge.

Cartilage grafts are often used to rebuild the nasal bridge in cases in which too much was was taken during a previous surgery. Although rib cartilage may be required, most surgeons use this in cases in which other sources of cartilage (septum or ear) are not available. If it is needed, it can be an excellent choice, however, the surgeon must be experienced in order to prevent potential complications.

Yes, a rib graft can provide autologous (your own) support and contour enhancement to your nose. I use rib grafts when local resources are either depleted or their harvest would destailize the infrastructure of the nose. I prefer nasal septal cartilage but in many of the revisions I perform, the septal cartilage has already been used. I therefore typically move to the ear as a source, unless the ear cartilage is not adequate.
My advice is to find a board certified Plastic surgeon with extensive exprience with reconstructive/revisionary cosmetic nasal surgery. Have them take a look and advise you accordingly.
Good luck!
Dr. C

The nasal bridge (a.k.a. dorsum) can be augmented with cartilage. Most commonly, this cartilage can be harvested from the nasal septum or the ears. If more cartilage is required or these sources are depleted, rib cartilage is the next (last) source. Some surgeons like bone (i.e. from the skull) or cadaver cartilage. Artificial materials can be used (Goretex, silicone) but I usually recommend avoiding these non-biologic materials in the nose.