Correcting a Dorsal Hump with Autologous Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty – Enhancing Function and Aesthetics

noselab
2월 28일
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최종 수정일: 9월 26일

[Nose Lab Clinic]

Hello, this is Dr. Cha-Young Kang, Director of Nose Lab Clinic.

Today, I’d like to present a case of autologous rib cartilage rhinoplasty for a patient who presented with a prominent dorsal hump and significant nasal obstruction. The patient specifically requested a natural, implant-free solution that would improve both appearance and breathing.

Design Consultation: Frontal View, Left Side View, and Oblique Side View Photos

Why Autologous Rib Cartilage Rhinoplasty Was Necessary

The patient had a structurally large nose, a prominent hump, and a drooping tip that negatively affected both facial harmony and nasal function.

Long-standing septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy further compromised her breathing.

Design Consultation: Right Side View, Oblique Side View, and Nostril View Photos

Initial Diagnosis and Patient Goals

Preoperative Findings:

Large dorsal hump
Drooping, elongated nasal tip
Acute nasolabial angle
Right-sided septal deviation
Inferior turbinate hypertrophy

Endoscopic view of right and left nasal cavities before autologous rib cartilage rhinoplasty: showing septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy. — Right Nasal Cavity, Left Nasal Cavity

Patient’s Goals:

Natural result with autologous tissue only
Reduce dorsal hump
Improve airflow through septal correction
Lift the tip and improve overall balance

Surgical Plan Using Autologous Rib Cartilage

Functional Correction:

Septoplasty using autologous rib cartilage
Reconstruction of deviated septum
Turbinate reduction using radiofrequency

Structural Adjustments:

Precise dorsal hump reduction
Lateral osteotomy for bone alignment
Rib cartilage graft to smooth and augment nasal bridge

Aesthetic Refinement:

Nasolabial angle correction
Reduced nasal length
Improved proportion and harmony of nose to face

Postoperative Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes

Before and immediately after autologous rib cartilage rhinoplasty – frontal view showing dorsal hump correction, nasal tip refinement, and improved symmetry. — Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Functional Results:

Significant relief from nasal blockage
Improved breathing through expanded airway
Structural support maintained with rib cartilage

Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Aesthetic Results:

Smooth, natural nasal dorsum
Better projection and rotation of the tip
Proportional, elegant nasal shape

Oblique view comparison before and after dorsal hump correction with rib cartilage – enhanced nasal contour and refined tip projection. — Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Nostril base view comparison before and after dorsal hump correction and septal reconstruction – improved nostril symmetry and internal nasal structure. — Before (Left) / Immediately After (Right)

Key Insights into Rib Cartilage-Based Rhinoplasty

Challenges:

1️⃣ Extensive septal deviation required firm support

2️⃣ Avoiding over-reduction during dorsal hump shaving

3️⃣ Preventing nasal elongation by stabilizing the tip

Takeaways:

✅ Autologous rib cartilage provides lasting support

✅ Balancing form and function is critical

✅ Closed approach minimizes external scarring and speeds healing

Conclusion – Harmonizing Structure, Function, and Beauty

This case of autologous rib cartilage rhinoplasty showcases how structural reinforcement with natural tissue can lead to both cosmetic harmony and functional restoration.