Hello, I am Dr. Jo Kyu-Sang, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty at AB Plastic Surgery Clinic.

Recently, I had the honour of attending a meaningful event as a plastic surgeon.

I was invited to serve as a moderator for the Rhinoplasty International Session at the APS KOREA 2025 International Academic Conference.

Although taking on the role of moderator came with some pressure, it was a truly rewarding experience where I could engage in deep discussions with fellow plastic surgeons who are active internationally.

Today, based on that experience, I would like to talk about a topic many people are curious about in rhinoplasty—surgical materials. Specifically, I will explain the advantages of choosing autologous rib cartilage for your first rhinoplasty.

Q. Do international surgeons also recommend ‘autologous rib cartilage rhinoplasty’?

At the recent academic conference, speakers from various countries—including Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines—gave presentations on a wide range of rhinoplasty materials such as ear cartilage, septal cartilage, rib cartilage, and ePTFE. Although the surgical techniques and approaches differed by country, there was one key point they all emphasized.

That was the stability and longevity of autologous tissue, particularly rib cartilage.

Many patients hesitate to choose autologous rib cartilage for their first rhinoplasty due to concerns about visible scarring.

Nevertheless, why do so many international surgeons continue to place their trust in rib cartilage?

As I listened to numerous experts thoroughly explain strategies to minimize complications associated with synthetic materials, I realized that—even though synthetic options may receive temporary attention depending on trends—there is still no substitute for the long-term stability and safety of autologous tissue.

While ongoing discussions and research aim to reduce side effects from synthetic materials, this reaffirmed the fact that no matter how advanced synthetic materials become, they have yet to match the long-term reliability of your own tissue.

Q. What are the advantages of using autologous tissue for your first rhinoplasty?

Using rib cartilage for your first rhinoplasty can be a great choice from a long-term perspective.

The greatest advantage of autologous rib cartilage is its excellent biocompatibility and stability.

Because it uses your own tissue, it has low risk of immune rejection and infection, leading to greater stability.

Additionally, rib cartilage is the strongest type of cartilage, making it highly durable with minimal absorption over time. It helps maintain lasting results, making it an excellent option for those seeking long-term outcomes.

However, harvesting rib cartilage does require a longer operation time and a healing process for the donor site, which should be taken into account.

That said, the benefits of autologous rib cartilage far outweigh the drawbacks, so we hope you don’t shy away from considering it for your first rhinoplasty.

Q. Is rib cartilage only used for revision rhinoplasty?

Many people believe that rib cartilage is typically used only in revision rhinoplasty.

It is often perceived as a last resort material used when there is no other option due to limited donor sources.

Depending on the desired nose shape, autologous rib cartilage can be used even for first-time rhinoplasty.

In particular, if you are looking for a more defined and structured result from your primary rhinoplasty, rib cartilage may be the most satisfying and reliable option.

Most importantly, if safety is your top priority, autologous rib cartilage is a highly recommended choice even for your first nose surgery.

Please note that swelling, infection, and inflammation are common risks after surgery and can vary depending on individual conditions.
Post-operative photos may appear different due to factors such as swelling, lighting, angle, and makeup.
Results vary by individual; it is important to consult thoroughly for a tailored surgical plan.

Q. What Does the Doctor Consider a Successful Primary Rhinoplasty?

A nose is not something you can redo like a double eyelid surgery. It is the central feature that determines your entire facial impression. That is why I consider two principles which are most important when performing surgery:

     1. Function Must Not Be Lost

      - A successful surgery is not just about the immediate result, but about how it looks after 3 or 5 years.

     2. It Must Deliver Long-Lasting Results

     - No matter how pretty it looks, if breathing becomes uncomfortable, the result cannot be called successful.

To achieve long-lasting and beautiful results without side effects or compromising nasal function, the surgeon’s skill is certainly important — but the choice of rhinoplasty material is also extremely crucial.

In that sense, choosing autologous rib cartilage for a primary rhinoplasty can be a very good option.

Please note that swelling, infection, and inflammation are common risks after surgery and can vary depending on individual conditions.
Post-operative photos may appear different due to factors such as swelling, lighting, angle, and makeup.
Results vary by individual; it is important to consult thoroughly for a tailored surgical plan

Q. Will a primary rhinoplasty using autologous rib cartilage leave a scar? Will it be very painful?

Many people do worry, asking questions like, “Won’t autologous rib cartilage leave a scar?” or “Won’t it hurt a lot?”

And yes, it is true — harvesting rib cartilage and planning the procedure is not easy, and the process is complex.

However, with a meticulous and delicate approach, it is possible to create a nose that suits your face perfectly — a “truly authentic nose” — one that won’t collapse even after many years.

I believe that great rhinoplasty is not just about trendy design. It is about safety, longevity, and above all, honesty. And those standards shouldn’t be based on trends, but rather proven through long-lasting results and improvements in a patient’s quality of life.

If you are considering autologous rib cartilage for your first rhinoplasty — don’t hesitate anymore.

I will think carefully, take full responsibility, and be with each and every one of you who trusts me with your face, to deliver the most suitable and satisfying result.

Thank you.

If you have any further questions about rhinoplasty, please call +82-10-5159-1298 or contact AB Plastic Surgery on WhatsApp using the same number above, for more detailed consultation.

Writer Dr. Jo Kyu-Sang, AB Plastic Surgery

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