Harvesting rib cartilage grafts for secondary rhinoplasty.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the nasal osseocartilaginous framework is the foundation of successful secondary rhinoplasty.

METHODS: Achieving this often requires large quantities of cartilage to correct both contour deformities and functional problems caused by previous procedures. Satisfactory and consistent long-term results rely on using grafts with low resorption rates and sufficient strength to offer adequate support. Auricular cartilage, irradiated cartilage, and alloplastic materials have all been used as implantable grafts with limited success.

RESULTS: In the senior author's experience (J.P.G.), rib cartilage has proven to be a reliable, abundant, and relatively accessible donor with which to facilitate successful secondary rhinoplasty surgery.

CONCLUSIONS: : The authors describe in detail the techniques that they have found to be integral in harvesting rib cartilage grafts for secondary rhinoplasty.