Is It Necessary to Harvest Rib Cartilage in Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is a second corrective surgery performed in patients who have previously undergone rhinoplasty and are not satisfied in terms of breathing or aesthetic appearance.

In this surgery:

• The cartilage structure is examined,
• Support points are evaluated,
• If there is collapse, deviation, or asymmetry, medical adjustments are planned accordingly.

Why Might Rib Cartilage Come Into Consideration?

Rib cartilage (costal cartilage) may be considered in some cases in revision rhinoplasty:

• Lack of anatomical support: If the amount of cartilage decreased in the first surgery, a stronger tissue may be needed in the second surgery.
• Nasal tip drooping / collapse: If tip support has decreased, a durable structure may be required.
• Severe deviations: Additional support may be required in significant deviations.
• Collapse of the nasal bridge (saddle nose appearance)
• Patients who have undergone multiple revision surgeries: In some cases, existing cartilage tissue may be insufficient.

Is Rib Cartilage Mandatory For Every Patient?

No. The use of rib cartilage is not necessary for every patient. The need depends entirely on the current condition of the nasal structure.

Situations where rib cartilage may not be necessary:

• Minor asymmetries
• Mild nasal tip reshaping
• Tipplasty-type procedures requiring minimal support
• If the skin is thin and the nasal structure is strong

In such cases, ear or septal cartilage may be sufficient.

Ear Or Rib? Which One Is More Suitable?

Ear Cartilage

• It has a softer structure
• It can be considered for minor corrections
• It may provide a natural look to the nasal tip
• It can be used in small-volume grafts

Rib Cartilage

• It is stronger and more voluminous
• It may be considered in cases with collapse, deviation, or significant loss of support
• It is one of the commonly used options in revision rhinoplasty

Choosing the right source is planned in line with the patient’s anatomical characteristics.

How Is Revision Rhinoplasty Performed?

• 3D facial assessment
• Identification of collapsed supports
• Analysis of nasal obstruction
• Measurement of new cartilage requirement
• Planning together in terms of function and aesthetics