Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex and nuanced procedures in facial plastic surgery. While many patients think of rhinoplasty as a procedure that simply “reduces” the nose, the reality is far more sophisticated. In many cases, achieving a natural, balanced, and long-lasting result actually requires building up and reinforcing the nose, not taking away from it.
This is where cartilage grafting in rhinoplasty becomes essential.
Dr. Kailash Narasimhan, a board-certified plastic surgeon serving St. Petersburg, Tampa, and the greater Tampa Bay area, specializes in advanced rhinoplasty techniques, including structural rhinoplasty with cartilage grafting. Understanding who needs cartilage grafting—and why—can help patients make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls associated with under-supported nasal surgery.
Traditional views of rhinoplasty often focus on removing a dorsal hump, narrowing the bridge, or refining the nasal tip. While these goals may be appropriate for some patients, over-reduction without proper structural support can lead to long-term problems such as:
Modern rhinoplasty, especially as practiced by experienced surgeons like Dr. Narasimhan, prioritizes structure, balance, and function—not just appearance.
Cartilage grafting involves harvesting cartilage from the patient’s own body and strategically placing it within the nose to:
Because cartilage is living tissue, it integrates naturally and provides durable, predictable results when placed correctly.
The nose relies heavily on cartilage for its shape and strength. In many patients, the existing cartilage is insufficient, either due to genetics, trauma, aging, or prior surgery.
Cartilage grafting allows Dr. Narasimhan to:
Some individuals are born with thin, flexible, or underdeveloped nasal cartilage, which may not provide enough support on its own. This is especially common in patients with:
Without reinforcement, surgical reshaping alone may result in instability or aesthetic regression over time. Cartilage grafts help strengthen and define the nasal framework while preserving natural movement and expression.
Revision rhinoplasty is one of the most common indications for cartilage grafting.
Patients who have undergone previous nasal surgery may experience:
Dr. Narasimhan frequently uses cartilage grafting to rebuild and restore the nose after prior surgery, addressing both form and function. In many revision cases, cartilage grafting is not optional—it is essential.
Ethnic rhinoplasty requires a highly individualized approach that respects cultural identity while achieving aesthetic goals.
Patients of African, Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and mixed ethnic backgrounds may have nasal characteristics such as:
Cartilage grafting allows Dr. Narasimhan to augment and define the nose without over-resection, preserving ethnic identity while enhancing projection, refinement, and balance.
This structural approach avoids the “overdone” or Westernized appearance that many patients wish to avoid.
A drooping nasal tip may be caused by:
Cartilage grafts—such as tip grafts or columellar struts—can restore proper support, improve rotation, and create a more youthful, refined nasal tip that holds its shape over time.
Functional rhinoplasty often requires cartilage grafting.
Patients with:
may benefit from cartilage grafts that strengthen internal nasal structures, improving airflow while also enhancing appearance.
Dr. Narasimhan routinely combines septoplasty and structural rhinoplasty, ensuring patients breathe better and look better after surgery.
Dr. Narasimhan carefully selects the cartilage source based on each patient’s anatomy and surgical goals.
Rhinoplasty with cartilage grafting is a highly customized procedure. Surgery typically takes several hours and may be performed using an open or closed approach, depending on complexity.
Dr. Narasimhan meticulously shapes and positions each graft to ensure harmony with the patient’s facial features.
Dr. Narasimhan provides detailed postoperative care instructions and long-term follow-up to support optimal healing.
Dr. Narasimhan is known throughout St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Tampa Bay for his expertise in:
His philosophy emphasizes precision, balance, and longevity, ensuring results that look natural today and remain stable for years to come.
Cartilage grafting is not an “extra” step in rhinoplasty—it is often the foundation of a successful outcome. Whether you are seeking cosmetic refinement, revision surgery, or functional improvement, cartilage grafting may be the key to achieving a strong, natural, and lasting result.
If you are considering rhinoplasty in St. Petersburg, Tampa, or the greater Tampa Bay area, consulting with an experienced specialist like Dr. Kailash Narasimhan can make all the difference.
To learn whether cartilage grafting is right for you, contact Dr. Kailash Narasimhan’s office today and schedule a personalized rhinoplasty consultation.
Serving patients throughout St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Tampa Bay, Florida.
