Auricular cartilage transplantation
Cartilage transplantation using autologous cartilage from the ear to adjust the height, shape, and angle of the nasal tip
Recommended for
- For those with insufficient nasal tip height or a low nasal tip who want improvement
- For those who want to improve a bulbous nose while adding height to the nasal tip
- For those seeking cartilage transplantation as a component of full nose surgery (comprehensive nasal surgery)
- For those who prefer surgery using autologous tissue as much as possible
What is auricular cartilage transplantation?
Auricular cartilage transplantation is a surgical procedure in which cartilage from the ear (auricular cartilage) is harvested and transplanted to the nasal tip (nasal apex) or nasal columella to adjust the height, shape, and angle of the nasal tip. Because it uses autologous tissue, it has high biocompatibility and a low risk of infection or rejection. It is frequently used in combination with nasal tip refinement, strut technique, and nasal septal extension.
Harvest site and harvesting method
Auricular cartilage is primarily harvested from the tragus (a small protrusion near the ear opening) or the concha (the hollow area inside the ear). The harvest site is accessed through a very small incision on the back or front of the ear, and the ear shape does not change significantly after surgery. The amount of cartilage available for harvest is limited, and rib cartilage may be selected for treatment of larger deformities.
Transplant site and effects
The harvested auricular cartilage is transplanted beneath the skin at the nasal tip (above the alar cartilage) or within the nasal columella (strut). Onlay graft transplantation to the nasal tip adds height and projection, while strut transplantation improves shape stability and refinement (results vary by individual).
Downtime estimate
Downtime occurs at both the ear harvest site and the nose. Nasal swelling subsides in approximately 1–2 weeks, and discomfort at the ear harvest site is reduced in 1–2 weeks. Final shape stabilization is expected at 3–6 months post-procedure (results vary by individual).
Features
What is auricular cartilage transplantation?
Cartilage transplantation is a procedure in which tragal cartilage and auricular cartilage are harvested and then transplanted to the nasal tip using either an open or closed technique. This procedure is suitable for those who wish to make minor adjustments to the nasal tip, lower the highest point of the nasal tip slightly, or achieve a more refined nasal tip. It is often performed in combination with nasal tip refinement or nasal septal extension. Generally, cartilage is carefully sculpted—made smaller, refined in shape and thickness—before being transplanted to the nasal tip. By adjusting the position—slightly higher or slightly lower—the final shape can be modified. Because cartilage transplantation uses a portion of your own tissue, the result is natural with no post-operative allergic reactions.
Incision site
Creating space for cartilage transplantation
Cartilage used
Tragal cartilage When using tragal cartilage, the cartilage is harvested through the external auditory canal. A small incision is made inside the ear near the opening to harvest the cartilage. Auricular cartilage When a larger amount of transplant cartilage is needed, auricular cartilage is used. The cartilage is harvested by making an incision behind the auricle while preserving the crus of the antihelix to prevent ear deformity.
Cartilage harvest visualization
Transplant position visualization
Treatment details
- Procedure time
- 1 hour
- Fixation
- Nasal tip splinting (7 days)
- Downtime
- 3–7 days
- Swelling
- Mild swelling may occur.
- Scarring
- Inside the nostrils
- Follow-up visits
- Once at 1 week
- Suture removal
- Days 5–7
- Longevity
- Semi-permanent
- Face washing
- Permitted after splint removal (72 hours)
- Makeup
- Everywhere except the nose is permitted immediately
- Showering
- Possible from the neck down from the next day
Pricing
Auricular cartilage transplantation
| Treatment | Price (incl. tax) |
|---|---|
| Dr. Tetsu |
|
| Other doctors |
|
※ All prices include tax.
FAQ
Will the shape of my ear change?
To minimize harvest volume, the external shape of the ear generally does not change significantly after surgery. A small scar remains at the harvest site but is placed on the back of the ear or in an inconspicuous location (results vary by individual).
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →How much height increase can be expected?
Because auricular cartilage has limited volume and strength, significant height increase may be difficult in some cases. It is effective for small-to-moderate height augmentation and shape improvement, and in cases requiring larger changes, rib cartilage transplantation or nasal septal extension may be considered (results vary by individual).
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →Will the transplanted cartilage be resorbed?
After take, auricular cartilage is maintained long-term (resorption is minimal because it is autologous cartilage). However, it takes several weeks for take to occur, and minor shape changes may occur during this period.
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →Can this be done at the same time as other nasal surgeries?
Simultaneous surgery with nasal tip refinement, strut technique, nasal septal extension, and alar base reduction is standard. Auricular cartilage transplantation is commonly incorporated as a component of comprehensive nasal surgery (full nose surgery).
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →Consultations about this treatment are free.
Book / free consult via LINE
Search this ID in WeChat to add us
zetith0123