What is cartilage graft revision rhinoplasty?
Many revision problems trace back to material or support: a silicone implant that has moved or thinned the skin, a graft that has curved, an edge that shows under the skin, or cartilage that was removed and never replaced. Cartilage graft revision addresses these by working with living tissue that integrates with your nose.
Septal cartilage is preferred when enough remains, ear cartilage suits the tip and nostril rims, and rib cartilage provides volume and strength for larger reconstructions. The overall plan follows the principles of structural rhinoplasty.
When is cartilage revision recommended?
- An implant that has shifted, shows or feels hard or has thinned the overlying skin.
- A graft that has warped or become visible as a ridge or bump.
- A pinched, scooped or collapsed nose after cartilage was over-removed.
- Asymmetry or a crooked result after a previous rhinoplasty.
- Breathing that worsened after earlier surgery.
If the nose has become short and tight, it is treated as a contracted nose, which needs extra care with the skin.
Septal, ear or rib cartilage — which is best?
| Septal | Ear (conchal) | Rib (costal) | |
| Strength | Good, straight | Soft, curved | Strongest |
| Volume available | Often limited after surgery | Moderate | Plentiful |
| Best uses | Struts, spreaders | Tip, rims, soft onlays | Major support, lengthening |
| Warping risk | Low | Low | Moderate, managed by carving |
| Extra scar | None (inside nose) | Hidden behind the ear | Small chest incision |
How the revision is performed
Before & after
Before
After
Revision cases are shown privately during consultation. Other results are in our before & after gallery.
What is recovery like after cartilage revision?
| Day 1–5 | Swelling and stiffness; ear or chest donor site may be sore. |
|---|---|
| Day 7–10 | Splint and stitches removed; nose looks swollen but improved. |
| Month 1–3 | Swelling eases steadily; avoid pressure on the nose. |
| Month 12+ | Revised noses settle slowly; the final result is assessed after a year. |
“In a revision I try to work with what your body accepts. Your own cartilage is more effort to shape, but it tends to stay put.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of revision with cartilage?
Revision noses carry more risk than first-time surgery: scar tissue, thinner skin and changed blood supply. Possible problems include graft warping or visibility, partial resorption of diced cartilage, infection, asymmetry, donor-site discomfort and the occasional need for a further minor procedure. We set expectations carefully before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Why not just replace the old implant with a new one?
Previously operated noses have a higher risk of implant problems, so your own cartilage is usually the safer, longer-lasting choice.
How long after my first surgery should I wait?
Usually at least 12 months, unless there is an urgent problem such as infection or extrusion.
Will I have a scar where cartilage is taken?
Ear grafts leave a hidden scar behind the ear; rib grafts leave a short chest scar.
Can cartilage grafts warp?
Rib cartilage can bend slightly, which is minimised by careful carving and balanced placement.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Plan on 10–14 days for splint removal and a check before your flight.
Who performs the revision?
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung sees you at consultation, performs the operation and follows up personally.