Objective To explore the application effect of autologous costal cartilage combined with silicone prosthesis in rhinoplasty. Methods A total of 80 patients who underwent rhinoplasty in the Department of Cosmetic Surgery, Yidu Yixing Medical Beauty Clinic from January 2023 to June 2024 were selected as the research subjects, and they were divided into the conventional group (40 patients) and the study group (40 patients) by the random number table method. The conventional group received silicone prosthesis rhinoplasty, and the study group received autologous costal cartilage combined with silicone prosthesis rhinoplasty. The nasal morphological indicators, quality of life and complications were compared between the two groups. Results The nasal bridge height, nasal tip height and columella length in the study group at 6 months after operation were greater than those in the conventional group, and the scores of physiological function, psychological state, social interaction, daily activity and total score were lower than those in the conventional group (P <0.05). The incidence of complications in the study group (2.50%) was lower than that in the conventional group (20.00%) (P <0.05). Conclusion Autologous costal cartilage combined with silicone prosthesis has a good application effect in rhinoplasty, which can effectively improve patients' nasal morphology, enhance quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications.