Cartilage grafts in tip - how long could it take for them to soften?

Cartilage grafts at the tip of the nose typically take time to soften and adapt to their new environment. This process can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on factors such as the surgical technique, the location of the graft, and the individual patient's response. Generally, most of the softening and remodeling of the cartilage occurs in the first six months, but complete maturation can take up to a year or more.
In some cases, the grafts may remain pointed if they do not integrate properly or if there is not enough soft tissue to cover them. To camouflage any irregularities at the tip, the use of fascia (a connective tissue that can be taken from other areas of the body) is an option. Fascia can help provide a better contour and soften the appearance of the cartilage graft, as well as promote a more natural integration with the surrounding tissues.

If you are more than 1 to 2 years after your rhinoplasty surgery, firm points in the nasal tip are usually cartilage. If these are visible, we have had good success camouflaging them with microdroplet Silikon 1000 injections. This may be a more feasible and predictable alternative to additional surgery utilizing temporalis fascia. Thank you for your question and I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Hi, It is better for you to consult with your facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on examination. usually it'll stay as it is. different techniques can be done; trimming the cartilage, putting soft tissue, etc..

Hello and thank you for your question. It really depends on the technique used by your surgeon. If you end up having a revision, you may want to consider having nasal tip projection with placement of a mastoid fascia tip tip graft, which can lead to a much smoother appearance of the nasal tip,. With good surgical technique, you could 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

Cartilage grafts are put in with the intention of providing mechanical stability and should not soften. The goal is to keep them firm.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

The timeframe for nasal grafts to soften in the tip after a rhinoplasty can vary, but here’s a general idea:
1. In the early months post-rhinoplasty, it’s normal for the nasal tip to feel firm or even pointy due to swelling and the graft material settling. The tissue around the graft is still healing, and this contributes to the hardness. 2. Most patients start to notice the grafts softening by the 6–12 month mark. Swelling typically continues to subside, and the surrounding tissues begin to relax, making the nose feel softer.
3. It can take up to 18–24 months for complete softening and for the final result to stabilize, especially in the nasal tip, which is often the last area to fully heal.
In some cases, grafts in the nasal tip can stay firm or even pointy, especially if the cartilage used was thick, placed too close to the skin, or not covered adequately by soft tissue. If this happens, it can cause discomfort or an unnatural appearance. There are a few options to address this:
If the graft feels pointy and it’s been over a year since surgery, it’s worth discussing with your surgeon. They can assess whether more time is needed for softening or if a revision or touch-up procedure might be necessary. If needed, camouflaging with fascia is a great option for a more natural, softer appearance.
In summary, most grafts soften within 12–24 months, but if the tip remains pointy or firm, using fascia or other techniques can effectively camouflage the graft. Always consult your surgeon for the best approach based on your specific case.

Cartel las is fairly rigid by its very nature, and this does not change from having it grafted.
The rigidity has to do with the thickness of the graft.
Unlike scar tissue, Cartlidge it’s not going to change overtime.
Internal scar tissue is usually fully mature by six months after surgery.
If the graft is overly prominent, then a revision procedure may be indicated.
Potentially fillers could be used two and hands the contour.
Without pictures we can’t begin to make an assessment.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD