How is a cartilage graft fixed inside the nose during rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Question

Hi Doctors, I like to know how is a cartilage graft actually fixed into place? Is there a glue or some stitches? Once inside the nose can it move in the future?

Umang Mehta, MD · Answer

Great question! I do secure my cartilage grafts with dissolvable stitches (sutures) to ensure that they don’t shift during or immediately after surgery. By the time the stitches dissolve (1-3 months), the grafts have scarred into place. A shifting of the graft at this point would be extremely rare. Kind regards,Dr. Mehta

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

A graft is either held in place by dissolvable sutures or by forming a precise pocket.   During the healing process it can occasionally shift slightly but this is infrequent.   However it is one reason to prefer underlay grafts to onlay grafts.   An underlay gray will never show.   Sometimes grays can show visible irregularities years later.   In revision rhinoplasty grafting is often unavoidable and they are useful for support.   Tip grafts are less likely to show because of the thicker skin.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Securing grafts in place with sutures. This is what i have used for over 44 years. It cannot move later. See an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon who will know how to properly do this.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

In our practice, the cartilage graft is placed in a very precise pocket and then the pocket is sutured closed. Some cartilage grafts do require dissolvable sutures to hold them in place, especially in the nasal trip. Once the graft has healed, it's very rare for it to shift

How is a cartilage graft fixed inside the nose during rhinoplasty? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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