Injectable Cartilage Shaving: An Autologous and Long Lasting Filler Material for Correction of Minor Contour Deformities in Rhinoplasty

BACKGROUND: Filler materials are gaining popularity in nonsurgical rhinoplasty the major advantages are the ability to camouflage the surface deformities, and also the soft and malleable consistency; while the major drawback of the safe fillers such as hyaluronic acid is short durability. In this study, we evaluated the injectable cartilage shaving as an autologous filler material for correction of minor contour deformities in rhinoplasty. METHODS: Injectable cartilage shaving was used for correction of surface irregularities in primary or secondary rhinoplasty, and long term results of 128 patients were evaluated. The source of cartilage was autologous septum, rib or less frequently, the ear concha. The material was injected with 14 to 18 gauge needles or blunted tip lipofilling cannulas with 1.3-1.7 mm internal diameters. It was performed whether during the septorhinoplasty or as a separate single procedure without elevation of the flap. Success was defined as the long term survival of the graft in the desired site and absence of recurrent deformity or complications such as extrusion, infection or displacement. RESULTS: Twenty seven males and 101 females underwent the procedure from May 2008 to January 2014. Mean follow up period was 31 (13-58) months. Ninety five percent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the results at the last follow up visits and touch up procedure was performed for the unsatisfied patients. CONCLUSION: Injectable cartilage shaving is a reliable filler to correct and camouflage the surface irregularities, and it is durable and predictable in long term follow ups.