Reasons for a Revision Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty procedures, also called nose jobs, are one of the more common cosmetic surgeries performed on both women and men. A rhinoplasty can improve your facial profile or correct a breathing problem. Like any surgery, sometimes the results of a nose job are not exactly what you had in mind. In that case, you can get a revision rhinoplasty to fix whatever you found objectionable about the first surgery.

Some valid reasons for a revision rhinoplasty are a nasal obstruction that develops after the procedure, excess internal scarring, nasal collapse or a perforated septum. Sometimes, patients just don’t like the way their nose looks after having a cosmetic nose surgery. You might desire a revision rhinoplasty for any of the following valid reasons:

• Your nose is still too large or is asymmetric.
• Your nose is flat, pinched, crooked, hooked, pointy or has a hump.
• Your nose is too wide, thin, long or short.
• Your nose is scooped or saddle-backed.
• You’re having problems breathing.
• Your nose is angled too much or not enough.
• Your nose doesn’t look natural.
• The procedure wasn’t completed satisfactorily.

On the other hand, some patients request a revision nasal surgery for the wrong reasons, which can include a weak chin or jaw, which would require a different facial plastic surgery procedure.

Dr. Hecht will examine your nose carefully before and after the procedure and identify any anatomical or functional issues that will need to be taken into consideration during the operation.

In some rare instances, a revision rhinoplasty may be necessary because the first surgeon simply did not do an adequate job. The technique may have been improper. The prior plastic surgeon may have removed more cartilage or tissue than was necessary. In these cases, revision rhinoplasty is more difficult but can be successfully performed by using specialized skin grafts to bring back a more natural look to your nose.

Because revision rhinoplasty procedures can be difficult, you must find a specialist who understands how to correct and improve on the negative outcome of the first surgery. Usually, your surgery will not be performed until at least six months to a year after your initial procedure. This gives your nose time to completely recover and for the scar tissue to become established. Your surgeon will examine your nose to make sure it is healthy enough to withstand a second surgery. You can even have a revision rhinoplasty years after your first one.

It’s important to approach your surgery with realistic objectives. You should know what can and cannot be fixed, and you should have a sensible goal for the revision. Keep in mind that it is easier to remove excess tissue than to replace it. If you have rational expectations for your procedure, you’ll be more likely to be satisfied with the results.

Whether you are looking for a primary nose job or need corrections done from a previous rhinoplasty surgery, the only way to know what’s best for you is to schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Hecht, facial plastic surgeon and rhinoplasty specialist in Scottsdale, Arizona.
We look forward to meeting you and discussing your facial plastic surgery needs during your appointment.