Rhinoplasty Cartilage Grafts, Septal Cartilage vs. Ear Cartilage?
Nasal septal cartilage is preferred to ear cartilage for nasal grafts because it is structurally stronger cartilage and much less likely to warp (bend its shape).
It is most unusual for a rhinoplasty surgeon to take ear cartilage when “virgin” septal cartilage is available.
Why create another surgical site when the cartilage can be taken from inside your nose?
I guess these are questions that you need to address with your rhinoplasty surgeon. (Michael A. Persky, MD, Encino Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Rhinoplasty and Ear Cartilage
“Warping of cartilage” means that the cartilage can twist out of shape over time. If ear or rib cartilage is not used correctly, there is a higher chance of warping. In primary rhinoplasty, the choice of cartilage graft is septal cartilage. Septal cartilage is especially good for tip refinement. Ear cartilage is usually reserved for revision rhinplasty. Harvesting septal cartilage may not be familiar territory for all surgeon, therefore the choice of ear cartilage. (Oleh Slupchynskyj, MD, FACS, New York Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Personally I like septal cartilage as a first choice, it is stronger than ear
There are a number of choices for cartilage grafts for the nose. My preference is septal cartilage. It tends to be stronger and straighter than ear cartilage.
They are actually different kinds of cartilage. Not only is ear cartilage weaker, but just look at your ear, the cartilage is already inherently curved, so getting a straight piece is much harder.
I cannot judge the surgeon you chose, but someone should be comfortable with all aspects of nasal surgery to do the best rhinoplasties. (Steven J. Pearlman, MD, New York Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Septal cartilage is preferred.
Ear and septal cartilage are actually two different types of cartilage (elastic and hyaline, respectively) and have different mechanical properties. While any cartilage graft can warp (twist or deform over time), septal cartilage tends to be more useful structurally. You’re also correct that most surgeon’s – myself included – will use septal cartilage over ear cartilage, if it’s available.
Most patients undergoing their first (and hopefully last) rhinoplasty will have adequate septal cartilage available. I’d be a bit suspicious of someone advocating ear cartilage first (unless the septal cartilage was too deformed, or had a large perforation). It makes me wonder if the surgeon is experienced at operating on the septum. And if he/she isn’t, then that surgeon shouldn’t be touching the rest of the nose! (David C. Pearson, MD, Jacksonville Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Cartilage choice in Rhinoplasty
All sources of cartilage in the body can warp or twist with time – some plastic surgeons even try to support the cartilage by inserting a stainless steel wire through the cartilage first as an added support, and have had excellent results with this technique (It looks like you’re from Texas, and I believe this is done by some of the surgeons at UT Southwestern in Dallas). Some folks believe ear cartilage is less likely to warp, others disagree, so it does come down to the surgeon’s choice– find someone you’re comfortable with, seek out more than one opinion as well, and maybe even speak to the folks in Dallas if this is not too inconvenient. (Shahram Salemy, MD, FACS, Seattle Plastic Surgeon)
Ear or Septal cartilage for the nose.
Cartilage warping occurs when a piece of shapede cartilage becomes distorted or deformed. This is possible at any time and can effect any caritlage. Septal cartilage tends to be the first choice and I would ask your surgeon for the rationale in choosing ear cartilage. (Otto Joseph Placik, MD, Chicago Plastic Surgeon)
Cartilage warping
It is possible for cartilage from any source, ear, rib, or septum to warp. This means it will twist and become misshapen. Each surgeon has their own preference as to what source of cartilage will work best for your situation.
If you are not totally comfortable with your doctor’s plan, see someone else for another opinion. (Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS, Seattle Plastic Surgeon)
Septal cartilage is preferred for rhinoplasty
Indeed, warping can occur from ear cartilage and rib cartilage. Septal cartilage does not tend to warp, bend, or bow. It is always best to have any cartilage grafting performed from the nasal cartilage first. If the nasal cartilage has been depleted, then move on to ear cartilage. (William Portuese, MD, Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon)