What Are the Features of Rhinoplasty Using Autologous Costal Cartilage?

A person’s impression can change depending on the shape of the nose.

The image changes according to the height, line, and shape of the nose.

A low, small nose can create a soft and youthful impression, but it may also give a somewhat ordinary look.

On the other hand, a hump nose or a beak nose may appear sharp or strong,

and in some cases, it can also make a person look older.

Because the image can look different depending on the shape of the nose, many people consider improving the shape of their nose. Today, among the various rhinoplasty methods, I’ll explain the features, advantages, and disadvantages of rhinoplasty using autologous costal cartilage!

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

What Is Rhinoplasty Using Autologous Costal Cartilage?

Autologous costal cartilage is a method in which a person’s own costal cartilage (rib cartilage) is harvested and used for rhinoplasty.

It is firmer than septal cartilage or ear cartilage, and it may help create a more three-dimensional line.

Also, because a larger amount of cartilage can be harvested, it has the characteristic of forming a more stable structure during rhinoplasty.

Features of Autologous Costal Cartilage

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

✅ Using autologous tissue offers high compatibility

Because autologous tissue is used, there is relatively less immune rejection in the body, and the possibility of side effects such as inflammation is low.

✅ Strong support helps maintain a natural shape

It is stronger than septal cartilage or ear cartilage, so the desired height and shape can be maintained more stably.

✅ A sufficient amount of cartilage can be harvested

Ear cartilage can only be used in limited amounts, and septal cartilage is not available in large quantities either.

Autologous costal cartilage can be secured in a relatively sufficient amount, so it can be used for various types of rhinoplasty.

✅ It can be applied to both primary surgery and revision surgery

In the past, it was mainly used for revision surgery, but recently it has also been used in primary surgery.

✅ The tip of the nose is less likely to droop over time

Because it is highly durable, the tip of the nose is relatively less likely to droop over time.

Since surgery using autologous costal cartilage depends greatly on the medical team’s skill, it is important to choose a team with sufficient experience. Because the process of harvesting rib cartilage requires an incision of about less than 2 cm, a skilled medical team can help reduce scar concerns through precise incision work.

Things to Consider Before Surgery

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

✅ A design that fits your facial proportions is important

Rather than simply following a trendy design, it is important to plan a line that considers the harmony between your face shape and facial features.

Source: TS Plastic Surgery website

✅ Careful consultation and planning are necessary

To achieve a high level of satisfaction with the results after rhinoplasty, it is important to find the method that suits you through sufficient consultation.

✅ Consult with an experienced medical team

Since rhinoplasty using autologous costal cartilage depends heavily on the medical team’s skill, it may be helpful to consult at a clinic with extensive experience.

Rhinoplasty using autologous costal cartilage is one method that can be expected to produce a more natural result. However, it is important that the design harmonizes with the individual’s face shape, and it is important to make a careful decision through sufficient consultation with an experienced medical team. If you are considering rhinoplasty, I hope you look into the method that suits you and make your decision carefully!

※ Depending on the individual, side effects such as inflammation, bleeding, and nerve damage may occur, so sufficient consultation with the medical team before surgery is necessary. This is an example image to help with understanding.