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NOSE CENTER
Completed with abundant autologous tissue Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty
Plentiful autologous rib cartilage handles demanding rhinoplasty such as revision and contracted noses.
Duration
2.5–3 hours
Anesthesia
Sedation or general
Hospitalization
Same-day discharge
Stitch Removal
Around 7 days
Recovery
Daily life in about 2 weeks
ANSWER Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty
Rib cartilage is the most plentiful and firm autologous tissue — the choice when septal or ear cartilage is insufficient. ANSWER Plastic Surgery uses it for surgeries that require a lot of cartilage, such as contracted-nose revision, severely upturned noses, and major augmentation of a low nose, aiming for stable structural reconstruction.
When Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty is needed
If any of the following apply to you, we recommend a specialist consultation.
Contracted-nose revision
Multiple surgeries have left limited cartilage and progressing contracture
Septal or ear cartilage already used
Autologous cartilage was used in a previous surgery and little remains
Large correction needed
The nose is very low or short and needs substantial extension and support
History of implant rejection
You experienced inflammation or rejection with artificial implants and want autologous tissue
CUSTOM DESIGN
Structural design for demanding noses
Rib cartilage surgery usually proceeds under difficult conditions — damaged tissue or insufficient cartilage. ANSWER evaluates the remaining structure precisely, then plans before surgery exactly where and in what form the rib cartilage will be placed.
- 1Extension range set by degree of contracture and available skin
- 2Cartilage allocated by segment: strut, bridge, and tip
- 3Soft tissue such as fascia considered alongside when needed

ANSWER POINT
Carving and processing that reduce warping
Rib cartilage is firm but tends to warp over time, so carving technique and processing affect the result. ANSWER applies balanced carving and a stabilization process to lower the chance of warping, and keeps the chest incision small to limit scarring.
- 1Balanced carving to reduce the tendency to warp
- 2Harvest through a small incision in the inframammary fold
- 3Cartilage stabilized after carving before use
- 4Pain management protocol for the donor site

ANSWER Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty: How It's Done
Detailed Consultation & Evaluation
We assess your surgical history and remaining cartilage, and judge together whether rib cartilage is needed.
Structural Design
The cartilage needed for strut, bridge, and tip is calculated and the harvest and placement planned.
Rib Cartilage Harvest
The needed amount of cartilage is harvested through a small incision in the inframammary fold.
Carving & Structural Reconstruction
The cartilage is carved to limit warping and the nasal support structure rebuilt.
Line Refinement & Recovery Care
The bridge and tip line are refined, and recovery of both the nose and chest sites is managed together.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWill there be a large chest scar?
Harvesting uses a small incision along the inframammary fold, so the scar tends to stay hidden in the crease. Scarring varies with individual constitution, so we also guide you on scar care.
QCan rib cartilage be used at an older age?
With age, rib cartilage can calcify and harden. We check its condition with pre-operative tests, and when calcification is severe, we review alternatives such as combining other materials.
QHow much chest pain should I expect after surgery?
The donor site can feel sore for a few days, but it is usually not severe enough to disrupt daily life. We provide pain management prescriptions and guidance on how long to avoid strenuous exercise.
Ask ANSWER about Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty
ANSWER Plastic Surgery 02.6959.4881 | Weekdays AM 10:00 - PM 07:00
The content on this page is provided for medical information purposes. Surgical methods and results may vary depending on individual conditions. All surgery carries the possibility of side effects, so please decide only after a thorough consultation with your doctor.
