Introduction to Costal Cartilage Use in Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, the surgical procedure to reshape or augment the nose, has embraced a new technique that enhances the traditional approach: the use of processed donor costal cartilage. This innovation allows for avoiding a secondary surgery to harvest grafts from the patient’s own body, reduces operating time, and eliminates additional scarring. According to Dr. David de Rungs, a board-certified plastic surgeon and director of De Rungs Plastic Surgery Wellness Center, this technique has become one of the most requested procedures.
Why Costal Cartilage is Relevant
Dr. de Rungs explains that costal cartilage from donors is employed when structural support in the nose is necessary, particularly for patients with previous surgeries or complex nasal deviance issues. This method offers several advantages over traditional techniques.
Key Benefits of Using Costal Cartilage
- Functional: Improves breathing, corrects septal deviations, or addresses trauma sequelae.
- Reconstructive: Repairs damage caused by accidents, diseases, or prior surgeries.
What Can Be Modified During Rhinoplasty?
With the aid of costal cartilage, various aspects of the nose can be modified:
- The nasal septum (internal structure dividing the nostrils)
- The nasal bridge
- The tip of the nose
- The width of the nostrils
- The angle between the nose and upper lip
Key Questions and Answers
- What is rhinoplasty? Rhinoplasty, or nasal surgery, is a procedure that aims to reshape or augment the nose for functional or cosmetic reasons.
- What is costal cartilage? Costal cartilage refers to the cartilage found in the rib cage. In rhinoplasty, processed donor cartilage is used as a graft to provide structural support.
- Why use costal cartilage from donors? Using processed donor costal cartilage eliminates the need for a secondary surgery to harvest grafts from the patient’s own body, reduces operating time, and minimizes additional scarring.
- What aspects of the nose can be modified during rhinoplasty? Through the use of costal cartilage, various parts of the nose can be altered, including the nasal septum, bridge, tip, nostril width, and the angle between the nose and upper lip.
