Donor rib cartilage rhinoplasty
- mrtimbiggs4
- Dec 20, 2025
- 3 min read
Rhinoplasty is fundamentally a structural operation. When cartilage support is inadequate — often after previous surgery or trauma — achieving a stable, natural result requires reconstruction, not just reshaping. In these situations, donor rib cartilage rhinoplasty can be an excellent solution.
As a Consultant ENT & Rhinology Surgeon specialising in complex and revision rhinoplasty in Hampshire, I use donor rib cartilage selectively when nasal support cannot be reliably restored using septal cartilage alone.
Why Is Cartilage Sometimes Needed in Rhinoplasty?
Cartilage provides the framework that supports the nose’s shape and airway. In primary rhinoplasty, septal cartilage is usually sufficient. However, in more complex cases, cartilage may be:
Absent or depleted from previous surgery
Warped or weakened
Insufficient in volume for major reconstruction
Unable to provide long-term support
This is particularly common in revision rhinoplasty, severe trauma, saddle nose deformity, or advanced nasal valve collapse.
What Is Donor Rib Cartilage?
Donor rib cartilage is processed, medical-grade cartilage sourced from screened donors and prepared under strict regulatory standards. It is designed specifically for surgical implantation.
Unlike harvesting a patient’s own rib cartilage, donor rib cartilage:
Avoids a chest incision
Eliminates donor-site pain
Reduces operating time
Allows predictable graft sizing and shape
For many patients, it offers a safer, less invasive alternative while still providing excellent structural strength.
When Do I Recommend Donor Rib Cartilage?
Donor rib cartilage is typically considered when:
You are undergoing revision or secondary rhinoplasty
The nasal framework has collapsed or lacks support
There is severe nasal valve dysfunction
Septal cartilage has already been removed
Major dorsal or tip reconstruction is required
It is rarely needed for routine cosmetic rhinoplasty but can be transformative in complex functional and revision cases.
How Is Donor Rib Cartilage Used?
The cartilage is shaped into precise grafts and used to:
Rebuild the nasal dorsum
Strengthen the nasal valves
Support the tip and columella
Restore symmetry and projection
Improve long-term airway stability
At Adnova Clinic, these grafts are combined with modern techniques such as Piezo ultrasonic instrumentation and structural rhinoplasty principles to ensure accuracy, durability, and natural appearance.
Is Donor Rib Cartilage Safe?
Yes. When used appropriately, donor rib cartilage has an excellent safety profile.
Key points patients often ask about:
Rejection: extremely rare due to processing methods
Infection risk: very low when handled correctly
Longevity: provides strong, stable long-term support
Warping: minimised through careful shaping and fixation
As with all grafting, experience and technique are critical — which is why donor rib cartilage should only be used by surgeons experienced in advanced rhinoplasty reconstruction.
Recovery and Results
Recovery following donor rib cartilage rhinoplasty is similar to other rhinoplasty procedures:
No nasal packing
External splint removed after one week
Gradual refinement over 6–12 months
Significant improvement in both breathing and structure
Patients often report that this type of surgery finally delivers the stability and airflow they were missing after previous operations.
Summary
Donor rib cartilage rhinoplasty is a powerful reconstructive tool for complex and revision nasal surgery. Used thoughtfully, it allows restoration of structure, function, and balance when simpler graft options are no longer sufficient.
For expert assessment of complex or revision rhinoplasty in Fareham, Portsmouth, Winchester and across Hampshire, consultations are available withMr Tim Biggs – Consultant ENT & Rhinology Surgeon at Adnova Clinic.
To enquire or book an assessment:
📍 Adnova Clinic
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