Can ear cartilage be safely removed from the bridge of my nose? (Photos)

Question

I had ear cartilage placed in the bridge of my nose. The cartilage has rolled and now it looks like I have something trying to poke out of the skin of the bridge of my nose. Also my nose bridge skin is very thin. Is it possible to remove this cartilage safely without tearing my skin? If it's possible, what type of insition would I have? What way would you approach this surgery? What would be the cost? If I leave my nose alone will the cartilage pop out of the skin some day?

Ira D. Papel, MD · Answer

Any cartilage inserted into the dorsum of the nose has the potential to warp or show through, especially if you have thin skin. It is safe to have revision surgery to remove or replace the problem area. The incision is usually inside the nose, and if a replacement is needed the use of finely diced cartilage wrapped in fascia should provide a smoother surface. The old cartilage which is removed can even be recycled. The cartilage will not pop through your skin, so you have time to consider your options. The cost will vary depending upon whether anesthesia is needed, and where you live.

Vito C. Quatela, MD · Answer

Yes, it appears that the ear cartilage can be safely removed without damaging the skin, but this will ultimately depend on how adherent or scarred down the cartilage is to the skin.  A formal consultation with physical exam will help determine this.  There are different incisions that may be used to remove the ear cartilage including one inside the nostril or an external incision at the columella.  Although there are reports of extruded implants, it is very unlikely that the cartilage will “pop out” of the skin.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

dear SallyThe previously placed graft can be safely removed via a closed rhinoplasty approach. There is essentially no risk of your skin tearing. There might be need for temporalis fascia based on your exam .

Myriam Loyo, MD · Answer

Hi there, thank you for your question and photos. I do think you can smooth the dorsum and remove the ear cartilage from the bridge safely without hurting the skin. The incision is done through the inside of the nostril so you should not have an external scar. It is important to have an exam in person to have your surgeon palpate the skin and make sure it is ready for a revision after your initial surgery. In terms of the cartilage popping through the skin over time, I think that is very unlikely. I mostly would recommend a revision if you do not like the shape of the bridge and not for fear for the cartilage becoming exposed.Hope this helps. Have a good day

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The ear cartilage can usually be removed without damage to the skin.  It really depends upon how stuck down it is ..

Can ear cartilage be safely removed from the bridge of my nose? (Photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revising the nasal dorsum and removing ear cartilage

Answer: Revising the nasal dorsum and removing ear cartilage

Answer: Cartilage removal

Answer: Cartilage removal

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Can ear cartilage be safely removed from the bridge of my nose? (Photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revising the nasal dorsum and removing ear cartilage

Answer: Revising the nasal dorsum and removing ear cartilage

Answer: Cartilage removal

Answer: Cartilage removal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.