Doctor's Column
Staff Blog
campaign
News
Do you have any of these concerns: “I want to naturally make the tip of my nose more prominent,” “I’ve always wanted a more defined nose tip,” or “My nostrils stand out when viewed from the front”?
An auricular cartilage graft is a procedure in which cartilage harvested from your own ear is transplanted to the tip of your nose to adjust its height, length, and orientation.
By adjusting the shape and position of the cartilage graft based on the condition of your nose and your desired outcome, we aim to create a natural-looking nasal tip that is in harmony with the rest of your face.
[R.O. Clinic] Case Study: Auricular Cartilage Grafting
At R.O. Clinic, we assess the current shape of your nose and your desired outcome, and we strive to perform auricular cartilage grafts tailored to each individual.
Here, we present a case study in which we added height and length to the tip of the nose while maintaining balance with the entire face, aiming to create a natural look that reflects the patient’s unique features.
- Treatment Name
- Auricular cartilage graft (open method)
- Attending Physician
- Daiki Kuroda
- Costs
- 440,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: Cream anesthesia, combined with local anesthesia
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
> View case details for auricular cartilage grafting (open technique)
- Treatment Name
- Auricular cartilage graft (closed method)
- Attending Physician
- Daiki Kuroda
- Costs
- 385,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: Cream anesthesia, combined with local anesthesia
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
> View case details for auricular cartilage grafting (closed technique)
- Treatment Name
- Auricular cartilage graft (closed method)
- Attending Physician
- Daiki Kuroda
- Costs
- 330,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: Cream anesthesia, combined with local anesthesia
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
> View case details for auricular cartilage grafting (closed technique)
Do you have any of these concerns about your nose?
- I want to naturally make the tip of my nose higher
- I've always admired a sharp, upturned nose
- I want to make my prominent nostrils less noticeable
- I want to refine the shape of the tip of my nose to improve my profile.
- I want to aim for a natural change without drastically altering my overall look.
These concerns may be improved through auricular cartilage grafting.
An auricular cartilage graft is a procedure in which cartilage harvested from your own ear is transplanted to the tip of the nose to adjust its height, angle, and shape. Adding moderate volume to the tip of the nose can sometimes make the nostrils less noticeable.
However, the most appropriate procedure varies depending on the condition of your nose and your preferences. To achieve your ideal results, it is important to accurately assess the current condition of your nose and choose the treatment that is right for you.
Why R.O. Clinic's Auricular Cartilage Grafting Is the Top Choice
An auricular cartilage graft is a procedure in which the final result varies depending on the shape, size, and location of the grafted cartilage.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully assess each patient’s individual preferences and the condition of their nose, and select the cartilage harvest site and surgical technique based on their specific goals.
- Custom Design
- A Comprehensive Diagnosis Focusing on the Entire Nose
- Sharing Visualizations Through 3D Simulation
- Comprehensive After-Sales Support
Custom designs tailored to each individual's nose
The desired outcome of an auricular cartilage graft varies from person to person—whether it’s “raising the tip of the nose naturally,” “refining the shape of the tip,” or “making the nostrils less noticeable.”
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully assess the current condition of your nose and your preferences, and after thoroughly evaluating the shape and placement of the cartilage to be transplanted, we propose a design tailored to each individual.
A Comprehensive Assessment Focused on the Overall Balance of the Nose
The ideal nose is not just about the tip; its overall impression is shaped by the bridge of the nose, the nostrils, and how it balances with the entire face.
For this reason, at R.O. Clinic, we do not focus solely on the tip of the nose; instead, we consider the harmony of the entire nose with the rest of the face when determining the treatment approach. In cases where a cartilage graft from the ear alone is unlikely to produce sufficient results, we also propose treatments that combine procedures such as alarplasty and septal extension.
Sharing Visualizations of the Final Product Using 3D Simulation
At R.O. Clinic, we use 3D simulations to share a visual representation of the expected results with our patients before treatment.
By considering a design based on the current condition of your nose and your preferences, you can explore treatment options while visualizing the expected results after the procedure.
A comprehensive aftercare system that provides peace of mind through the postoperative period
When performing an auricular cartilage graft, it is important to monitor not only the nose but also the progress of the ear from which the cartilage was harvested.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully monitor post-operative swelling and the condition of your incisions, and we’ve established a system that makes it easy for you to consult with us if you have any concerns or symptoms that are troubling you. We provide personalized support for each patient, staying by your side right through the post-operative period.
Ear Cartilage Grafting at R.O. Clinic
An auricular cartilage graft is a procedure in which cartilage harvested from your own ear is transplanted to the tip of your nose to adjust its height, length, and orientation.
At R.O. Clinic, we tailor our approach to your specific concerns and desired results. We harvest cartilage from the auricle—located at the base of the ear—or the tragus—near the entrance to the ear canal—and recommend the most appropriate method based on your individual condition.
Expected Benefits
The following benefits can be expected from auricular cartilage grafting.
- Add height to the tip of the nose
- Add length to the tip of the nose
- Shape it to form a pointed tip
- Make Your Nostrils Less Noticeable
- Enhancing the Appearance of Your Profile (E-Line)
By adjusting the height, length, or orientation of the tip of the nose, you can change not only the appearance from the front but also the impression it makes from the side.
However, there are limits to the changes that can be achieved using auricular cartilage, and the expected results may vary from person to person.
Cases That Can and Cannot Be Improved with Auricular Cartilage Grafting Alone
A cartilage graft from the ear is a procedure suitable for adding natural height or length to the tip of the nose or for correcting the direction of the nasal tip.
- Treatment Name
- nasal septum extension
- Attending Physician
- Hidehiko Lu
- Costs
- 715,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia combined with local anesthesia
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry, postoperative deformity - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
>> Learn More About Nasal Septum Lengthening
On the other hand, if you want to make the tip of your nose larger or higher, or significantly change its length or angle, a cartilage graft from the ear alone may not produce the desired results. In such cases, it may be more appropriate to combine this procedure with others, such as septal extension or rhinoplasty.
- Treatment Name
- Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty, Auricular Cartilage Graft (Open Technique)
- Attending Physician
- Daiki Kuroda
- Costs
- 825,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: Cream anesthesia, combined with local anesthesia
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
> View case details for rhinoplasty and auricular cartilage grafting (open technique)
- Treatment Name
- Nasal Tip Rhinoplasty, Auricular Cartilage Graft (Open Technique)
- Attending Physician
- Daiki Kuroda
- Costs
- 825,000 yen (including tax)
- Side Effects and Risks
- Anesthesia: Combined with local anesthesia
Stitch removal: 1 week later
Risks: Swelling, bruising, redness of the scar, slight asymmetry - Downtime
- About 1 to 2 weeks (depending on the individual)
> View case details for rhinoplasty and auricular cartilage grafting (open technique)
>> Learn More About Rhinoplasty
During your consultation, we will carefully assess the current condition of your nose and discuss your preferences, and then recommend a treatment method tailored to your individual needs.
Risks and Side Effects
The following are the main risks and side effects associated with auricular cartilage transplantation.
- Infection
- A new division opens
- The outline of the transplanted cartilage becomes visible
- I don't feel the full effects
- It may differ from what you had in mind
If symptoms such as a sensation of heat, redness, severe pain, or significant swelling persist at the treatment site after surgery, an infection may be suspected; depending on the condition, it may be necessary to remove the transplanted cartilage. Additionally, if the sutures come loose or the wound does not heal properly, the incision may reopen, requiring re-suturing.
In addition, because the tip of the nose is a delicate area, the final results may vary from person to person depending on factors such as skin thickness and the shape of the cartilage.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully explain not only the expected results but also the risks and limitations of the procedure, and we proceed with treatment only after you have fully understood and agreed to them.
Who Should Consider an Auricular Cartilage Graft?
If you have any of the following concerns, an auricular cartilage graft may be right for you.
- For those who want to naturally raise the bridge of their nose
- For those who want to add length to the tip of their nose
- For those who want a perky nose tip
- For those who want to make their nostrils less noticeable
- For those who want a natural look
A cartilage graft from the ear is a procedure suitable for those who want to add natural height or length to the tip of their nose, or who want to refine the tip of their nose without drastically changing its appearance.
However, the most appropriate procedure will vary depending on the shape of your nose and your preferences. It is important to assess the current condition of your nose during a consultation before deciding on a treatment method.
Treatment Methods
In auricular cartilage grafting, the approach to the nose, as well as the shape of the grafted cartilage and the fixation method, are selected based on the condition of the nose and the patient’s preferences.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully assess each patient’s nasal condition and combine the necessary procedures to achieve a natural-looking result.
Methods for Harvesting Auricular Cartilage
At R.O. Clinic, we harvest cartilage from the auricle, located at the base of the ear behind the head, or from the tragus, located near the entrance to the ear canal.
The site from which the cartilage is harvested is selected based on each individual’s condition, taking into account the shape and characteristics of the cartilage as well as the purpose of the transplant.
Closed Method (Internal Incision)
The closed method involves making an incision inside the nostril and transplanting auricular cartilage.
This procedure is characterized by the absence of external scarring; it is selected after assessing the condition of the nose and determining the necessary treatment, provided the patient is a suitable candidate.
Open Method (Lateral Incision)
The open rhinoplasty technique involves making incisions along the columella and inside the nostrils, and transplanting auricular cartilage while visualizing the structure of the nasal tip.
This makes it easy to fine-tune the position and fixation of the cartilage, allowing us to select the most appropriate method based on the required procedure.
Shaping and Fixing Cartilage to Suit the Condition of the Nose
The harvested auricular cartilage is not transplanted as is; instead, it is shaped to achieve the desired result before use.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully shape and secure the cartilage while taking into account not only the height and length of the tip of the nose but also the condition of the skin and the overall balance of the face.
The Procedure for Auricular Cartilage Grafting
At R.O. Clinic, we assess your desired nose tip shape and the current condition of your nose, and we provide support—from the initial consultation through post-operative follow-up—to ensure you can undergo treatment with peace of mind.
Counseling and Medical Examinations
First, we’ll ask you in detail about your concerns and your ideal look.
We assess not only the shape, height, and orientation of the tip of the nose, but also the balance of the nose as a whole with the rest of the face to determine whether an auricular cartilage graft is appropriate. If necessary, we will also recommend other procedures, such as alarplasty or septal extension.
We also use 3D simulations to help you visualize the final results and provide clear explanations of the treatment methods, risks, and downtime.
Design and Treatment
Based on the results of the consultation, we will design the procedure while taking into account the overall shape of the nose and its balance with the rest of the face.
The procedure takes about 30 to 40 minutes. We use a combination of topical anesthetic cream and local anesthesia, and can also provide nitrous oxide or intravenous anesthesia upon request. We perform the procedure with great care to achieve a natural and well-balanced result.
Postoperative Recovery and Downtime
Swelling will occur after the procedure, but any noticeable swelling will subside within about 1 to 2 weeks.
With the open method, the area is immobilized with a cast for about one week, after which the stitches are removed. With the closed method, no cast is used. While the cast is in place, please be careful not to get the incision wet when washing your face or taking a shower.
Follow-up
After surgery, it is important to monitor not only the condition of the transplanted tip of the nose but also the ear from which the cartilage was harvested.
At R.O. Clinic, we continuously monitor post-operative swelling and the condition of your incisions, and we’ve established a system that makes it easy for you to consult with us if you have any concerns or symptoms that are troubling you. We provide personalized support to ensure you feel at ease throughout your recovery.
[Postoperative Progress and Follow-Up Care at R.O. Clinic]
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Treatment Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Postoperative hospital visit | Stitches removed after 1 week |
| Postoperative swelling | 1 to 2 weeks (varies by individual) |
| plaster cast | 1 week (open method only) |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | possible |
| anesthesia | Cream anesthesia, combined with local anesthesia *Nitrous oxide anesthesia and intravenous anesthesia can be used in combination upon request (additional fee applies). |
| shower | Available from the next day *Do not get the wound wet while wearing the cast. |
| make | Possible from the same day except for the day of creation. |
| face-washing | Available from the next day *Do not get the wound wet for one week while wearing the cast. |
[R.O. Clinic's Ear Cartilage Grafting Fees]
| Treatment Details | Prices (including tax) |
|---|---|
| Auricular cartilage graft (open method) | 440,000 yen |
| Auricular cartilage graft (closed method) | 385,000 yen |
| Auricular cartilage graft + Rhinoplasty | 825,000 yen |
*Prices include tax; private insurance
[Related Videos]
R.O. Clinic has released a video explaining rhinoplasty. It covers topics of interest to those considering the procedure, such as a discussion on auricular cartilage grafting and other rhinoplasty procedures like septal extension surgery, so please be sure to watch it.
What You Need to Know to Avoid Regrets After an Auricular Cartilage Graft
Since an auricular cartilage graft uses your own cartilage, this procedure is expected to produce natural-looking results.
On the other hand, the ideal outcome varies depending on the original shape of the nose, the condition of the skin, and the patient’s preferences. Therefore, when considering this procedure, it is important to fully understand not only the expected results but also the limitations, risks, and downtime associated with the procedure.
At R.O. Clinic, we carefully assess each patient’s nasal condition and preferences, and propose treatments that take into account the balance with the entire face. We provide clear explanations so you can make an informed decision about your treatment, so please feel free to contact us for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the results of an auricular cartilage graft semi-permanent?
A: Once the transplanted cartilage has stabilized, long-term results can be expected.
However, the shape of the nose may change in the future due to postoperative healing or age-related changes in the tissue.
Q: Will the shape of my ear change if cartilage is removed from it?
A: In an auricular cartilage graft, we leave behind the cartilage necessary to maintain the shape of the ear and harvest only the amount needed for the graft.
However, since there are individual differences in the site and amount of tissue harvested, as well as in how wounds heal, postoperative outcomes may vary from person to person.
Q: What is the difference between auricular cartilage grafting and septal extension?
A: An auricular cartilage graft is a procedure in which cartilage harvested from the ear is transplanted to the tip of the nose to adjust its height, length, and orientation.
On the other hand, nasal septum extension may be appropriate when you want to make the tip of your nose higher or significantly change its length or angle.
At R.O. Clinic, we recommend the most appropriate treatment method based on your preferences and the condition of your nose.
Q: Can the tip of the nose be raised using only auricular cartilage grafts?
A: It is possible to add height to the tip of the nose using a cartilage graft from the ear.
However, there are limits to how high the nose can be made, and the results may vary from person to person depending on the original shape of the nose and the condition of the skin. Depending on your preferences, we may suggest other procedures, such as septal extension.
Q: Will the scar be noticeable?
A: With the closed method, the incision is made inside the nostrils, so there are almost no visible scars on the outside. With the open method, an incision is made along the columella, which leaves a scar; however, this scar generally becomes less noticeable over time.
In addition, an incision will be made in the ear when harvesting auricular cartilage. The harvest site will be either the auricle or the tragus, and the healing of the scar varies from person to person. If you have any concerns, please feel free to discuss them during your consultation.