Rhinoplasty Cartilage Grafts Explained: Spreader, Rim, Strut & More

Patients often hear the word graft and picture filler added for volume. In reality, cartilage grafting in rhinoplasty is about structure — and understanding it makes the rest of a surgical plan far easier to follow.

Grafts are support, not just filler

Cartilage grafts are used to support, straighten, reinforce, camouflage, or rebuild parts of the nose. They give the framework strength and hold structures in position over time. Rather than simply adding bulk, a well-placed graft does a specific structural job — bracing a weak sidewall, refining a tip, or smoothing a contour.

Common sources

Septal cartilage, ear cartilage, and rib cartilage each have different strengths and limitations. Septal cartilage is straight and convenient when available; ear cartilage has a natural curve useful in certain areas; rib cartilage provides strength and volume for major reconstruction but requires a separate harvest.

• Septal cartilage — straight and well suited to many grafts, when enough remains
• Ear cartilage — naturally curved, useful for specific contouring needs
• Rib cartilage — strong and abundant, used when major support is required

Functional use

Grafts are not only cosmetic. They can support the nasal valves and improve airflow in selected patients, which is why functional and cosmetic planning go hand in hand. Spreader, batten, and strut grafts all have roles in keeping the airway open.

Revision use

Revision surgery often requires grafting because support may be depleted or scarred from the first operation. When septal cartilage has been used up, the surgeon turns to ear or rib cartilage to rebuild a stable framework.

The common grafts, in plain language

Which graft source for which job?

Septal cartilage is the first choice for most grafts when enough remains. Ear cartilage's curve suits the nostril rims and certain tip grafts. Rib cartilage is used for grafts that must carry load — septal extension, major dorsal rebuilding — when septum is depleted. See rib cartilage and cadaver vs. your own rib.

FAQs

Are cartilage grafts visible?

They're shaped and placed to be invisible, but under very thin skin an edge can occasionally show — which is why edges are beveled and sometimes camouflaged.

Do cartilage grafts last?

Your own cartilage generally survives and holds its shape long term. Donor cartilage may resorb more in some uses.

Why not use an implant instead?

Synthetic implants remain foreign bodies and carry lifelong risks of shifting, visibility, and infection. See revision after implants.

Every procedure and condition page that names a graft (pinched nose, inverted-V, alar retraction, valve collapse, thick skin) should link the graft name here.