Cartilage Graft Nose Surgery in Seoul, Korea
Build a stronger, more natural nasal structure using your own septal, ear or rib cartilage instead of — or together with — implants.
- Board-certified plastic surgeons
- English-speaking support
- 400 m from Gangnam Station
Cartilage graft nose surgery uses the patient's own (autologous) cartilage to support, lengthen or augment the nose. Septal cartilage is strong and straight, ear cartilage is soft and curved for tip shaping, and rib cartilage provides the largest volume for revisions or major augmentation.
- Surgery time
- Approx. 2–3 hours
- Anesthesia
- General or sleep (IV) anesthesia
- Splint & stitches out
- Around day 5–7
- Recommended stay in Seoul
- 7–10 days
Who benefits from cartilage grafting?
Grafts are used when the existing framework needs support or extra volume.
Your surgeon chooses the donor site based on how much cartilage is needed and how strong it must be.
- Low tip projection or drooping tip
- Short or upturned nose needing lengthening
- Weak support after previous surgery
- Patients who prefer to avoid or limit implants
- Implant complications in revision cases
Septal, ear and rib cartilage compared
Septal cartilage
Straight and strong; ideal for tip support and septal extension grafts. Harvested inside the nose.
Ear cartilage
Soft and curved; good for gentle tip projection. Harvested through a hidden incision behind the ear.
Rib cartilage
Largest supply; used for major lengthening, augmentation or revision.
Combined use
Cartilage can be combined with implants for bridge height and natural tip support.
Cartilage graft rhinoplasty before & after
A supported, natural tip shape is one of the main benefits of grafting your own cartilage.
Results vary between individuals depending on anatomy, technique and healing. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, inflammation and asymmetry. Photos are shared with patient consent and identities are protected.
How cartilage grafts are used
Septal extension graft
Controls tip projection and length.
Columellar strut
Supports the tip from below to prevent drooping.
Tip onlay graft
Adds definition to the tip surface.
Spreader graft
Supports the middle vault and the nasal airway.
Dorsal onlay
Diced or layered cartilage can smooth or raise the bridge.
Ear cartilage
Read more on ear cartilage rhinoplasty.
Cartilage graft nose surgery process for international patients
- Online consultation Send front and side photos via WhatsApp for a preliminary review.
- In-clinic consultation Your surgeon examines the nose, explains options, risks and a personalized quote.
- Surgery day Surgery with anesthesia managed by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
- Splint & stitch removal Usually around day 5–7, followed by a check-up.
- Follow-up Remote aftercare support after you return home.
Recovery after cartilage graft rhinoplasty
Typical milestones after surgical rhinoplasty (individual healing varies):
| Days 1–3 | Peak swelling and bruising; keep the head elevated and rest. |
|---|---|
| Days 5–7 | Splint and stitches removed; light daily activities resume. |
| Weeks 2–3 | Most bruising fades; many patients are comfortable flying home. |
| Months 1–3 | Most swelling subsides; avoid pressure on the nose and contact sports as instructed. |
| 6–12 months | Final contour, especially of the tip, becomes fully visible. |
Detailed instructions: Rhinoplasty aftercare guide · Pricing factors: Nose surgery cost in Korea
Why choose YUNO Plastic Surgery for cartilage graft nose surgery?
Cartilage graft nose surgery FAQ
Is my own cartilage better than an implant?
Will cartilage be absorbed?
Will harvesting leave a scar?
Which donor site will I need?
Does it take longer to recover?
How much does it cost?
Explore related nose procedures
Considering cartilage graft nose surgery in Seoul?
Send your photos and goals for a preliminary review by our team.
YUNO Plastic Surgery Clinic · 9F, W Tower, 54 Seocho-daero 77-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Korea · 400 m from Gangnam Station Exit 10, 60 m from Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 · Mon–Fri 09:30–19:00, Sat 09:30–17:00 (closed Sundays & public holidays)
