It is a bit difficult to reply without pictures, but here goes. When a rhinoplasty is performed, often the cartilage that supports the nose is reshaped and changed to provide the desired result. Unfortunately, the results may not be as satisfying as desired. If the overall support is decreased, the nose can shorten and even collapse. In that case, the structural support needs to be rebuilt. The first choice in reconstructive material is cartilage from the septum. Unfortunately, often this has already been used or is not efficient for the reconstruction needs. In that case, a rib cartilage can be taken to provide structural support and aesthetic integrity to the reconstruction of the nose.