Own-cartilage nose surgery
Autologous Cartilage Rhinoplasty in Gangnam, Seoul
built from your own tissue.
Autologous cartilage rhinoplasty shapes and supports the nose with cartilage taken from your own body: the septum, the ear or a rib. It is the foundation of the ONYX approach in Gangnam, Seoul, because your own tissue integrates naturally and gives the tip lasting, stable support.
- 01 1:1 consultation with the operating surgeon
- 02 3D CT scan & virtual simulation before surgery
- 03 Structure-first design with your own cartilage
- 04 English-friendly support via WhatsApp
What is autologous cartilage rhinoplasty?
Autologous means "from your own body". In this type of rhinoplasty, grafts of your own septal, ear or rib cartilage are used to support the tip, lengthen the nose, straighten the bridge or add height, instead of or alongside an implant.
Because the body recognises its own tissue, the risk of implant-type problems such as extrusion is avoided, and the nose feels natural to the touch.
| Septal cartilage | Same incision; straight and strong |
|---|---|
| Ear cartilage | Hidden scar behind the ear; soft and curved |
| Rib cartilage | Small chest incision; most abundant |
| Surgery time | About 2–3.5 hours |
| Stay in Seoul | About 7–10 days |
| Final result | 6–12 months |
Who benefits most?
- Tips that need strong, lasting support
- Short or upturned noses that need lengthening
- Thin skin that would show an implant
- Revision after an implant problem
- Patients who prefer no foreign material
How own-cartilage rhinoplasty works
- STEP 01
Choose the source
Septum first; ear or rib if more is needed.
- STEP 02
Harvest
Cartilage is removed through a small, hidden incision.
- STEP 03
Carve
Grafts are shaped precisely for each job.
- STEP 04
Fix in place
Grafts are secured to build a stable framework.
Septal, ear and rib cartilage compared
| Septal | Ear | Rib | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amount available | Limited | Small–moderate | Abundant |
| Strength | Strong, straight | Soft, curved | Strongest |
| Best use | Tip support, extension | Tip shaping, soft grafts | Revision, lengthening, bridge |
| Donor scar | None extra | Hidden behind the ear | Small chest scar |
Recovery
Typical timeline only. Healing varies with the procedure, skin thickness and materials used.
- Day 1–3 Swelling of the nose; mild soreness at any donor site.
- Day 5–7 Splint and stitches removed.
- Week 2–3 Bruising fades; most people return to daily life.
- Month 3 The nose looks natural to others.
- Month 6–12 Final shape.
Autologous Cartilage Rhinoplasty in Seoul: your questions answered.
Is my own cartilage better than an implant?
For the tip, yes in most cases: it gives natural feel and lasting support. For bridge height, an implant may still be an option.
Can cartilage be absorbed over time?
Some resorption can occur, especially with crushed or diced grafts. Solid, well-supported grafts generally hold well.
Will taking cartilage leave a scar?
Septal cartilage adds no visible scar. Ear cartilage leaves a hidden scar behind the ear; rib leaves a small chest scar.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 7–10 days, longer if rib cartilage is used.
Can I have this after an implant rhinoplasty?
Yes, replacing an implant with your own cartilage is a common revision.
Plan your cartilage rhinoplasty consultation in Gangnam, Seoul.
Address
8F, 18 Gangnam-daero 94-gil
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Getting here
Near Gangnam Station
Line 2 · Shinbundang Line
Hours (KST)
Mon–Fri 10:00–19:00
Sat 10:00–16:00
Closed Sundays & public holidays
Contact
