Treatment Overview
Cartilage grafting is a surgical technique used in rhinoplasty to enhance nasal structure, provide support, and improve both function and aesthetics. In Korea, it is widely used for augmentation, tip projection, structural support, and reconstruction. Surgeons often harvest cartilage from the nasal septum, ear (auricular cartilage), or rib (costal cartilage) depending on the patient’s needs. This procedure allows for natural, long-lasting results that maintain nasal balance and functionality.
Purpose & Benefits
- Provides structural support for weak or collapsed nasal frameworks.
- Enhances tip definition and projection.
- Corrects deformities from trauma, prior surgery, or congenital issues.
- Improves breathing function by stabilizing nasal passages.
- Achieves a more natural and harmonious nasal shape compared to synthetic implants.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients who need structural reinforcement in rhinoplasty.
- Those undergoing revision rhinoplasty requiring extra cartilage.
- Individuals with thin skin needing subtle shaping and contouring.
- Patients seeking natural results over synthetic implants.
- People with collapsed, asymmetric, or weakened nasal structures.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling and bruising post-surgery.
- Cartilage warping or absorption (rare with experienced surgeons).
- Infection or graft displacement (minimized with sterile techniques).
- Donor site discomfort (ear or rib harvest).
- Revision surgery in rare cases.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Septal Cartilage Graft: Often the first choice for support and shaping.
- Ear Cartilage Graft (Auricular): Useful for tip refinement and small corrections.
- Rib Cartilage Graft (Costal): Ideal for major augmentation or reconstructive cases.
- Shield Graft: Enhances tip definition.
- Columellar Strut Graft: Provides stability and projection to the nasal tip.
- Spreader Graft: Improves both function (breathing) and aesthetics by widening the middle vault.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial Downtime: 1–2 weeks for swelling and bruising to subside.
- Return to Work/School: Within 7–14 days.
- Donor Site Recovery: Minor discomfort at ear or chest (if rib cartilage is harvested).
- Full Healing: 6–12 months for cartilage to fully settle and refine.
- Aftercare in Korea: Includes anti-swelling care, scar treatment, and detailed monitoring.
Results & Longevity
- Long-lasting, permanent results as cartilage integrates naturally.
- Improved nasal function with structural support.
- Natural look and feel compared to synthetic implants.
- Enhanced facial harmony and self-confidence.
Treatment Process in Korea
The journey starts with a detailed consultation using 3D imaging and structural analysis. Korean surgeons evaluate the nose’s framework and donor cartilage sources. Based on the patient’s goals, they design a customized plan.
During surgery, cartilage is harvested from the septum, ear, or rib, then shaped and grafted to strengthen or refine the nose. Korea’s top clinics use microsurgical precision to ensure symmetry, stability, and natural contour. Post-surgery, patients receive personalized care, swelling management, and frequent follow-ups for optimal recovery.
Why Korea?
- Expertise in Cartilage Grafting: Korean surgeons are pioneers in natural cartilage-based rhinoplasty.
- Advanced Techniques: Use of minimally invasive graft harvesting with reduced scarring.
- High Success Rate: Reliable long-term results with low complication rates.
- International Patient Support: Clinics offer translators, medical tourism packages, and dedicated care systems.
Cost Range
The cost of Cartilage Grafting in Korea depends on the donor site, surgical complexity, and surgeon expertise:
- Septal Cartilage Grafting: ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,000,000 KRW ($3,800 – $5,400 USD)
- Ear Cartilage Grafting: ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($4,600 – $6,200 USD)
- Rib Cartilage Grafting (Complex Cases): ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($6,500 – $9,200 USD)
- Revision with Cartilage Grafting: ₩10,000,000 – ₩15,000,000 KRW ($7,700 – $11,500 USD)
Popular Clinics in Korea for Cartilage Grafting
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Specialized in rib cartilage grafts and revision rhinoplasty.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery: Known for precise ear and septal cartilage refinements.
- JW Plastic Surgery: Expertise in complex grafting and functional improvements.
- View Plastic Surgery: Offers advanced 3D imaging for accurate graft planning.
- MINE Plastic Surgery: Renowned for natural, cartilage-based rhinoplasty results.
