Rib grafts removal after rhinoseptoplasty - is it possible 9 months post op?

Question

I had primary rhinoseptoplasty done 9 months ago using rib grafts and what I got after was overprojected tip of the nose, protruded upper lip, especially at the nasolabial angle that makes my jaw retracted and extremely hard, immovable nose that is very uncomfortable to kiss someone with. My surgeon said that he spliced rib cartilage to be used as spreader grafts joined together with what I now suspect with too thick columellar rib graft. Is it possible to remove said rib grafts from my septal cartilage or are they inseparably fused now?

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your description, you may benefit from a revision rhinoplasty to soften the tip and make it more comfortable. A surgeon can accomplish this by removing the grafts and performing nasal tip deprojection, among other maneuvers. With good surgical technique, you could likely have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

The grafts can be removed or adjusted, depending on which grafts are causing the trouble and what needs to be done with them to get your nose close to the way you want it. Sounds as though the nose is overall much too strong. Don't know what to say with any specificity without pictures, but yes, many, sometimes most, of the problems from a primary can be corrected in a revision, especially if the main goal of the revision is to make the nose overall smaller.

Rib grafts removal after rhinoseptoplasty - is it possible 9 months post op?

Answers (2)