Rhinoplasty

Cartilage sutures and grafting to the nasal tip

The tip of the nose is a complex set of cartilages. Where they are too large they can be reduced but other modifications of the cartilages can also be made to narrow the tip by placing strategic sutures between and within the cartilages.

The nasal tip is a prominent feature of the nose and a more aesthetically pleasing nose can often be achieved by enhancing the profile of the tip with cartilage grafts. These grafts can be taken from the nose itself or very occasionally from the ear. Other areas where cartilage grafts can be used are above the nasal tip to maintain good proportions of the cartilage between the tip and bone. Occasionally where the back of the nose requires enhancement a cartilage graft may be used.

Most of the cartilage for grafting is taken from the nose itself with extra cartilage being available from the ear if required. If major structural cartilage is required this is taken from the ribs.

A rhinoplasty is usually done under general anaesthesia and it is advisable to stay in hospital overnight following the procedure. A nasal splint is applied to the nose to protect and stabilise the bones. This splint is removed after one week following surgery.