A 2-year Follow-Up of Irradiated Homologous Costal Cartilage Used as a Septal Extension Graft for the Correction of Contracted Nose in Asians

Background: Septal extension graft is a useful method for the correction of contracted nose. When septal or costal cartilage is not available, irradiated homologous costal cartilage (IHCC) may be an alternative choice. This preliminary study is focused on noninfective absorption and other complications and postoperative changes of nasal length after septal extension graft using IHCC. Methods: Thirty patients who could be observed for more than 2 years postoperatively were assessed. All patients had contracted nose deformities with a history of an inflammatory contracture after previous aesthetic surgical procedures. The IHCC was used only as a septal extension graft in each patient. Nasal length was analyzed by comparing preoperative and 2-year postoperative photographs. Results: There was no noticeable graft warping or infective IHCC absorption. However, 3 patients underwent revision: 2 cases of graft avulsion fracture and 1 case of minimal nasal obstruction. Nasal length, which had increased an average of 8.5% after the procedure, was maintained at follow-up 2 years postoperatively. Conclusions: The IHCC has the advantages of avoiding donor-site scars, and also provides the same benefits as autogenous costal cartilage. It can therefore be a reliable alternative material for rhinoplasty. A longer follow-up may be necessary to confirm the structural stability of the IHCC graft in the lengthened caudal septum.