What are the complications of rhinoplasty using ear cartilage?

Nov 14, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Han Xuefeng

Introduction

Nasal augmentation using ear cartilage involves harvesting the patient's own auricular cartilage tissue and surgically implanting it into the nasal area to enhance nasal appearance and elevate the nasal tip. To avoid potential complications, patients should choose a reputable medical facility and an experienced surgeon for the procedure, and strictly follow the doctor's postoperative care and recovery instructions.

Generally, ear cartilage rhinoplasty involves using the patient's own ear cartilage as a nasal augmentation material. Through surgery, the cartilage is implanted into the nose to improve nasal appearance and elevate the nasal tip. The typical reference price for ear cartilage rhinoplasty ranges from 20,000 to 80,000 yuan per procedure. Results are usually noticeable within 1–3 weeks after surgery, although side effects such as pain or downward rotation of the nasal tip may occur. Potential complications of ear cartilage rhinoplasty include adhesion, cartilage deformation, bleeding, nasal skin necrosis, and ear tissue deformation. If discomfort arises, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Adhesion

Adhesion typically occurs after cartilage transplantation due to individual differences, improper surgical technique, or poor postoperative recovery, resulting in abnormal connections between the cartilage and surrounding tissues. This adhesion may affect both the shape and function of the nose, leading to unnatural appearance or functional limitations.

2. Cartilage Deformation

Cartilage deformation may result from damage to the cartilage during transplantation or uneven absorption after implantation due to poor blood circulation, immune reactions, or other factors. Additionally, external trauma or improper postoperative care can also lead to cartilage deformation.

3. Bleeding

Bleeding during ear cartilage rhinoplasty may be caused by improper surgical technique, vascular injury, or abnormal coagulation function. Most cases of bleeding can be controlled with appropriate hemostatic measures post-surgery; however, severe bleeding may require medical intervention.

4. Nasal Skin Necrosis

Nasal skin necrosis usually results from underestimating skin tension during surgery or excessive pressure on the skin caused by an oversized implant, leading to impaired blood circulation in the nasal skin. If blood flow cannot be restored over time, the skin may die due to ischemia.

5. Ear Tissue Deformation

Ear tissue deformation is typically caused by improper harvesting technique or removal of excessive amounts of cartilage. If the surgeon fails to precisely control the amount or location of cartilage removed, the structural support of the ear may be compromised, resulting in ear deformity.

To avoid these complications, patients should choose reputable medical institutions and experienced surgeons for the procedure and strictly follow the doctor’s instructions for postoperative care and recovery.

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Can I eat chestnuts after undergoing nasal augmentation with ear cartilage?

Under normal circumstances, patients can consume moderate amounts of chestnuts after ear cartilage rhinoplasty. As a type of nut, chestnuts are not spicy, greasy, or otherwise irritating, and therefore will not irritate the surgical site or affect wound healing. At the same time, chestnuts contain abundant nutrients such as protein, minerals, vitamins, and trace elements. Moderate consumption of chestnuts can help supplement the body's nutritional needs.

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What are the risks of using ear cartilage for rhinoplasty?

Generally, using ear cartilage for rhinoplasty may involve risks such as insufficient support, absorption and deformation, bleeding and hematoma, donor site damage, and infection. During the recovery process, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and pressure on the nose to prevent compromising the surgical outcome and wound healing. In addition, dietary adjustments are necessary to avoid consuming spicy and allergenic foods, which can aid in body recovery and wound healing.

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Is nasal augmentation using ear cartilage permanent?

Nasal augmentation with ear cartilage involves harvesting cartilage from the area around the earlobe and grafting it onto the nasal tip to elevate and improve the nose shape. The typical reference price for this procedure ranges from 20,000 to 90,000 yuan per session. Results are generally noticeable within about two weeks after surgery, although possible side effects such as nasal tip hardening may occur.

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When will nasal congestion subside after nasal augmentation with ear cartilage?

The removal time of nasal packing after auricular cartilage rhinoplasty should be determined based on the recovery condition. For patients with good recovery, nasal packing is generally removed around 4-6 days postoperatively, as the wound has healed and the nasal shape has stabilized, making the removal minimally impactful. Conversely, if the recovery is poor or accompanied by inflammation or infection, removal is typically postponed to 6-9 days to avoid compromising the stability of the implant and preventing nasal deformity.