Can I have African American/ethnic rhinoplasty without cartilage graft? (Photos)

Question

I scar easily, so the scar from rib cartilage will never go away and I would prefer no grafts as I've read the can warp over time. I want natural results as well and dont want to increase the height of my bridge greatly. I would like my bridge and nostrils to be narrower and straighter. Is this possible without cartilage grafts?

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

The best way to determine what specific changes will look good on your face, and what changes are surgically possible, is to do your research to find the top rhinoplasty specialists and consult with several of them in person. During your consultation, your photos can be computer-morphed to show how the changes to your nose will affect your appearance. Cartilage grafts have a much lower rate of migration, infection, or extrusion compared to synthetic grafts. The amount of cartilage that is necessary depends on the degree of tip projection and dorsal augmentation you want to achieve (how tall you want to make your nose).  If you only want a conservative amount, it may be attainable with cartilage harvested from your septum.  For a more dramatic change, additional cartilage is necessary which can be obtained from your rib. Good luck! @drdonyoo

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

Thanks for your questions and photos. It is not possible to accurately advise you because your photos are too cropped and you do not show what your goals. This type of communication is important in order to accurately explain how to get you the results you want. By definition you will need some type of grafting if you ant your dorsum higher, unless you have a synthetic dorsal implant placed, something I don't do. Good luck.

Can I have African American/ethnic rhinoplasty without cartilage graft? (Photos)

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Can I have African American/ethnic rhinoplasty without cartilage graft? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about African American Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.