Question:
Are grafts always used in revision rhinoplasty cases and what are they made of? Are there any concerns when using them?
Answer:
In the majority of revision rhinoplasty cases, cartilage grafts are used for reconstruction. Cartilage grafts are used to reconstruct the tip, such as opening up the nasal valve in case someone has a pinched nose and they can't breathe versus lengthening the nose after a rhinoplasty that has been overdone, or to add cartilage to the dorsum or bridge of the nose if it’s been over-resected and now retains a scoop. In most of my cases, I use cartilage grafts which come from the patient's septum, ear, or rib. If the septum is not available, the next best cartilage which is strong and straight is rib cartilage. Rib cartilage is harvested through a very small incision just in the breast crease and removed with minimal to moderate discomfort. There are times when we don't use grafts and that’s in situations where we’re trying to remove a bone that was left behind. In all of my revision rhinoplasties, I use the patient's own tissue, I don't use foreign material.
