What does a cartilage graft for rhinoplasty feel like after it has healed?

Question

I would like a revision rhinoplasty to fix a scooped nose. I am a male and would like to know if it will make my nose stronger or not. Does it feel natural and smooth? Can the doctor control the shape and size to really make it look natural? What happens to the actual graft, does it bind to the original bone & cartilage? Any information on bridge grafts would be greatly appreciated. When would a permanent filler be a better option also?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear dwehabDorsal augmentation in revision rhinoplasty is best done with your own cartilage. It is preferably done with septal cartilage. The amount of augmentation  is limited by amount of cartilage available. If septal cartilage is inadequate, ear cartilage is also an option. In general cartilage is soft, longlasting and safe. It provides predictable and consistent results. It does bind to surrounding tissue. Permanent fillers are not nearly as safe or as effective with high risks of complications including granulomas, lumpiness and migration. They are easier to perform with essentially no recovery. Silicone injections are a good example.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Placing a cartilage graft along the bridge line does not make the nose stronger or more resilient to a fracture. It simply builds up the existing bridge line. Cartilage grafts do feel natural and they integrate in with the existing cartilage and bone. The grafts are always custom carved according to the patient's unique anatomy.  In our practice we do not recommend permanent fillers placed in the nose. It is important to know how much cartilage is left in the nose for grafting purposes when performing a revision rhinoplasty

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

You ask multiple questions which I will address. A cartilage or cartilage fascia grat to augment the bridge will not add strength to your nose but correct the cosmetic deformity. It will look natural and feel smooth. An experienced rhinoplasty surgeon can control both size and shape. The graft will become integrated into the surrounding tissue. A filler will not provide permanent correction.

What does a cartilage graft for rhinoplasty feel like after it has healed?

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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What does a cartilage graft for rhinoplasty feel like after it has healed?

Answers (3)

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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.