Rhinoplasty, or nose job surgery, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed worldwide. While most patients are satisfied with the results of their primary rhinoplasty, some patients may be left with functional or aesthetic issues. These problems may lead them to consider revision rhinoplasty to correct the previous surgery’s mistakes.
Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct any complications or aesthetic issues from a previous rhinoplasty. This type of surgery requires more skill and experience than a primary rhinoplasty and is typically performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist with extensive experience in revision rhinoplasty.
The reasons for revision rhinoplasty are varied and may include:
- Functional issues: The nasal airway may be obstructed or compromised, leading to breathing difficulties. This may be caused by the previous surgery, scarring, or trauma.
- Aesthetic issues: Patients may be unhappy with the appearance of their nose after the primary rhinoplasty. This may include a crooked nose, asymmetry, over-resection, or under-resection of cartilage or bone, or an overdone or unnatural look.
- Dissatisfaction with the results: Despite the surgeon’s best efforts, patients may be unhappy with the results of their primary rhinoplasty and desire a revision.
Revision rhinoplasty is more complicated than primary rhinoplasty and requires a higher level of skill and expertise. During the procedure, the surgeon may need to correct the previous surgery’s mistakes, rebuild the nose’s structure, or address any functional issues. The surgery may be performed using an open or closed approach, depending on the patient’s needs and preference.
Recovery from revision rhinoplasty can be longer and more complicated than primary rhinoplasty. Patients may experience more swelling and bruising, and the recovery period may take several weeks.
In conclusion, revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct any complications or aesthetic issues from a previous rhinoplasty. Patients considering revision rhinoplasty should seek a board-certified plastic surgeon or a board-certified ENT specialist, with extensive experience in revision rhinoplasty. The surgeon should be able to discuss the patient’s concerns and provide realistic expectations of the potential outcomes. With proper planning and execution, revision rhinoplasty can be a successful procedure that can correct the previous surgery’s mistakes and provide patients with the nose they desire.
The success rate in primary rhinoplasty is 90% when done by an experienced surgeon and drops to 60% when done the second time. It drops again to 30% if done for the third time and could result in a mutilated nose if done for the fourth time (Remember the late Michael Jackson).
It is therefore important to choose an experienced surgeon who has done thousands of rhinoplasties and not rely on a few before and after photos that may reflect only the successful results and hide the bad results. A surgeon who did a great job for you or your friend for their breast surgery or liposuction may be a poor choice for your nose job. Choose a reputable center that is known for honest advice.
