Nasal Reconstruction with Cartilage Grafts

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY

Nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts is a surgical procedure that uses your body’s own cartilage to improve the structure of your nose. This procedure is a variation of the traditional rhinoplasty, often focusing on correcting injuries, congenital deformities, and structural irregularities, rather than simply cosmetic improvements.

Dr. John E. Sherman is one of New York’s most in-demand board-certified plastic surgeons for rhinoplasty. Dr. Sherman offers more than 30 years of experience in medicine and has become nationally recognized for his technical skills. When he is not treating patients, Dr. Sherman serves as a senior plastic surgeon at Cornell, training some of the best residents and plastic surgeons in the country.

To start working with Dr. Sherman, please contact us online or call (212) 535-2300.

About Nasal Reconstruction with Cartilage Grafts

This procedure uses autogenous cartilage grafts, or cartilage from other areas of the body, such as the ears, septum, and ribs. Autogenous cartilage grafts have remained a primary choice for rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction procedures. This is because cartilage grafts are completely biocompatible, effective for soft tissue augmentation, and readily available in multiple areas of the body. (1) Dr. Sherman can place these grafts to support your nasal structure, address functional concerns, and enhance the aesthetic appearance of your nose.

Candidates

Nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts is effective for addressing congenital deformities, correcting structural irregularities, revising the results of a previous rhinoplasty, restoring the nose after cancer procedures, or providing more support for your nasal enhancements.

To qualify for nasal reconstruction using cartilage grafts, you should be in good general health and maintain realistic expectations regarding the results of your procedure. You should also be nonsmoking or willing to quit using nicotine. Dr. Sherman will determine your candidacy during your personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

There is no singular solution to restoring your nose, which is why we ask that you attend a personal consultation before scheduling your appointment. During this consultation, Dr. Sherman will meet with you individually to ask about your medical history, nasal concerns, and procedure goals. He will also perform a physical evaluation to assess your nasal structure, natural facial anatomy, and the quality of your skin.

Dr. Sherman will use this information to finalize your candidacy and create your treatment plan. He will select the most effective surgical techniques, determine where he will take cartilage from, and may even recommend additional procedures based on your desired results.

To schedule this consultation and start collaborating with Dr. Sherman, please contact us online. Alternatively, you may call our New York office at (212) 535-2300.

Preparation

After scheduling your nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts, you will need to begin making certain preparations. Dr. Sherman will give you a set of pre-operative instructions to guide you. These may include:

  • Planning for Time Off: You will need to take time away from your job and social commitments to focus on your recovery. Taking the time to relax can help support your body and provide you with the best possible results.
  • Arranging Your Transportation: You will need to arrange for transportation to and from your procedure.
  • Discontinuing Certain Medications: You will need to refrain from taking any medications or supplements that may thin the blood.
  • Filling Your Prescriptions: Before undergoing your nasal reconstruction, you should pick up any medications that you will need as you heal.
  • Cease Any Smoking: You will need to avoid any nicotine use in the weeks leading up to your procedure and throughout your recovery. Nicotine can increase your risk of bleeding, as well as increase your chance of developing post-operative complications.

Procedure

Dr. Sherman performs each nasal reconstruction at his surgical center. The length of your procedure will vary depending on its complexity, but it may last between two and four hours. You will receive either general anesthesia or deep intravenous sedation so that you are comfortable throughout treatment.

Dr. Sherman will first take excess cartilage from other areas of your body for your grafts. He typically harvests from areas such as your ears, septum, or ribs. (1) He will then carefully reshape the cartilage according to its necessary placement.

Dr. Sherman will then place an incision across the columella, the thin strip of flesh between your nostrils. (2) This placement helps him visualize each of your nasal structures, allowing him to place your grafts with precision and ease.

Recovery

After your nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and tenderness around your nose and eyes. These effects will subside on their own with time, but you can also manage them using a cold compress, prescribed medications, and resting with your head elevated. Dr. Sherman will also send you home with a nasal splint. This splint will minimize further swelling and preserve the new shape of your nose.

You may return to light activities and desk work after resting for approximately one to two weeks. However, you will need to refrain from participating in strenuous or vigorous tasks for several weeks, or until Dr. Sherman clears you to return. He will also ask you to come back to the office for follow-up appointments as you heal. At these follow-ups, he will remove your splint and check on your recovery progress.

Dr. Sherman will provide any additional recovery information during your personal consultation.

Results

You will be able to notice structural changes immediately after your procedure, but you will enjoy the full results of your nasal reconstruction once any residual swelling subsides. You will be able to see a stronger, more defined nasal profile that contributes to a more attractive appearance. Dr. Sherman will also correct any structural concerns or irregularities, allowing you to breathe more deeply and easily.

The results of nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts are essentially permanent, but it is important to keep in mind that the nose will continue to age naturally over time.

Cost of Nasal Reconstruction with Cartilage Grafting in New York

The cost of your nasal reconstruction procedure can vary depending on the complexity of your procedure and your goals. Once Dr. Sherman has met with you to determine the most appropriate and effective approach for your procedure, he will give you a comprehensive cost estimate.

If your insurance provider deems your nasal reconstruction medically necessary, they may reimburse you for your procedure. Insurance companies typically deem procedures medically necessary if they address a clearly documented functional concern, such as difficulties breathing or a structural irregularity. Dr. Sherman and his team can work with your insurance provider to help you determine your candidacy for coverage and obtain any necessary pre-certifications. We recommend reaching out to your provider ahead of time to determine what benefits they offer. Dr. Sherman also offers financing for those who qualify.

To learn more about the pricing of the nasal reconstruction procedure, please contact us online or call (212) 535-2300.

FAQ

What is the difference between a traditional rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction with grafts?

The primary difference between these two procedures is their focus and goal. Traditional rhinoplasty focuses on enhancing the appearance of your nose while keeping its structure primarily intact. On the other hand, nasal reconstruction with grafts uses cartilage to rebuild certain parts of your nose to address structural concerns or deformities. While aesthetics are still important in nasal reconstruction, it is not its intended purpose.

Where will Dr. Sherman take cartilage from?

Dr. Sherman will take the cartilage he uses in your procedure from either your septum, ear, or ribs. The exact location depends on your natural anatomy and the amount of cartilage that your corrections require.

How will I know if I am a good candidate for nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts?

Nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts is effective when addressing structural concerns, irregularities, or deformities. During your personal consultation, Dr. Sherman will assess your medical history, concerns, personal goals, and pre-existing anatomy to determine whether this procedure, or another, will best suit your case.

How long will the results of my procedure last?

The results of your procedure will be permanent, allowing you to enjoy your renewed appearance for several years to come!

Will insurance cover my nasal reconstruction procedure?

If your insurance company deems your procedure to be medically necessary, then they may cover part of the cost. Dr. Sherman can work with your provider to determine any necessary pre-certifications or documentation required, but we also recommend that you call your provider to check your benefits.

What is the recovery process like after nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts?

Recovery after nasal reconstruction with cartilage grafts varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the location from which cartilage was taken. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first one to two weeks.

References

  1. BUSSI M, F PALONTA, TOMA S. Grafting in revision rhinoplasty. Acta Otorhinolaryngologica Italica. 2013;33(3):183. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3709529/
  2. Hohman MH, Fichman M, Piedra IT. Rhinoplasty. Nih.gov. Published September 2, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/#article-28523.s9