Can Revision Rhinoplasty Be Performed Without Cartilage Grafting?

Revision rhinoplasty is a second or third corrective surgery performed on individuals who have previously undergone a nose job. One of the most important considerations in such operations is whether there is sufficient cartilage support available to reshape the nose. In some patients, revision rhinoplasty is possible without harvesting cartilage; however, this may not be suitable for every patient.

In order for the procedure to be performed without using cartilage, there must still be sufficient supporting tissue within the nose.

In Which Cases Might It Not Be Necessary To Harvest Cartilage?

In the following situations, using the existing tissues may be sufficient:

• If the nasal framework was not excessively weakened in the first surgery
• If the septum (central cartilage) was preserved sufficiently
• If only minor asymmetry corrections will be performed
• If minimal shape change is needed at the nasal tip
• If no additional structural adjustment is required in terms of function

Under these conditions, reshaping with the tissues inside the nose may be possible.

In Which Cases Might It Be Necessary To Harvest Cartilage In Rhinoplasty?

In many revision cases, additional cartilage may be required. The reasons include:

• Excessive removal of cartilage from the septum during the first surgery
• Weakening of the nasal framework
• Loss of nasal tip support
• Development of structural problems such as collapse, valve narrowing, or difficulty breathing

In this case, additional cartilage use may be required to support the nose again.

Areas Where Cartilage Can Be Harvested

In revision rhinoplasty, cartilage is generally harvested from the following areas:

• Ear cartilage (conchal cartilage): It may be preferred for small supports.
• Rib cartilage (costal cartilage): It is used when stronger and more voluminous support is needed.
• The remaining part of the septum: If sufficient, this is usually the first option.

Is There A Risk If Revision Is Performed Without Harvesting Cartilage?

If additional cartilage is not used despite a significant loss of support in the nose:

• Nasal tip drooping may develop
• Collapse or asymmetry may persist
• Functional problems may not improve

For this reason, planning is always done with an individualized evaluation.

What People Wonder About Revision Rhinoplasty