Ear cartilage resorption rates in rhinoplasty used for radix/upper bridge augmentation?

Question

What is the resorption rate of ear cartilage when used for radix/upper bridge augmentation over time? I'm talking about 20-30 years in the future. Will the graft last a lifetime? Have there been studies on this?

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. Ear cartilage (autologous conchal cartilage) used for reconstruction or dorsal augmentation should not resorb over time. Most studies that have looked at this, however, report outcomes much shorter than 20-30 years. The most important factor in graft survival is good tissue quality and vascularization.  This can be affected by surgical technique, but also by patient factors (general health, vascular disease, diabetes, radiation exposure, etc.).

Michael Kulick, MD, DDS · Answer

Hello, this is a good question. Without seeing your current concern, pictures, it is hard to change the degree of change you are interested in. To the best of my knowledge, there is no peer reviewed study published investigating the 20-30 year follow up of using ear cartilage grafting for the radix region of the nose. While ear cartilage is an option, there are other options to raise this region of the nose which also includes the nasal septum. In addition, I have  used a dermal graft that does not have a donor site scar. 
The best thing you should do is have a face to face consultation with a Board Certified plastic surgeon that can examine the skin of your nose in terms of it's thickness and provide you treatment options. I use computer morphing to allow patients to see potential post surgical options without having surgery.

Sincerely,
Michael Kulick MD
ASAPS, ASPS member
San Francisco, Ca

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There is no reason to use ear cartilage in the nose, especially in the bridge since it will be hard,  Lumpy and quite visible in that area of the nose for many years after the procedure.  Nasal cartilage is always the first source to use for grafting when needed.  A full set of pictures are going to be required to make a determination if you need any cartilage grafts in the glabella/radix.

Ear cartilage resorption rates in rhinoplasty used for radix/upper bridge augmentation?

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