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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
Matrix-assisted Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation for Remodeling and Repair of Chondral Defects in a Rabbit Model
Published on: May 21, 2013
Generative surgery of cultured autologous auricular chondrocytes for nasal augmentation
Hiroko Yanaga1, Keisuke Imai, Katsu Yanaga
1Yanaga Clinic and Tissue Culture Laboratory, Kokura-Kita-Ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 802-0044, Japan.
Background:
Conventional treatment for nasal augmentation utilizes autologous grafts, allografts, or synthetic implants such as silicon implants. Silicon implants could protrude/expose or induce nasal bone resorption. Autologous grafts are usually associated with donor site morbidity and the volume of harvested tissue is limited. We had developed a new method for nasal augmentation using cultured autologous chondrocytes (CAC). The current report presents the results of a study using that method with a larger number of patients and an improved graft technique for the nasal tip.
Methods:
Approximately 1 cm2 of cartilage was harvested from the auricular concha and treated with collagenase, and then chondrocytes were obtained. In our multilayer culture system the chondrocytes formed immature cartilaginous tissues with a gelatinous chondroid matrix. They were injection-grafted into the subcutaneous pocket of the nasal dorsum.
Results:
The chondrocytes with a gelatinous chondroid matrix change from a soft gel to hard neocartilage tissue within 2 to 3 weeks and then stabilize. The authors have used this procedure over a 6-year period on 75 cases: 58 secondary augmentation rhinoplasties following silicon implantation and 17 primary augmentation cases. The results have been satisfactory and long-lasting.
Conclusion:
Grafting of CAC is an optional method for nasal augmentation and could be used for a wide range of facial augmentation cases.
