Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a complex surgical procedure. While patients always hope that their first (primary) rhinoplasty procedure is their last, some patients will need a second procedure to achieve their desired results. In these cases, secondary rhinoplasty is the best solution.
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What Is a Revision Rhinoplasty?
Revision procedures are performed to correct any aesthetic and functional problems that persist after the original surgery. About 15% of primary rhinoplasty patients undergo a revision procedure.
There are several reasons why some primary rhinoplasty procedures don’t achieve the desired results. Sometimes, surgical alterations have unintended consequences. For example, post-rhinoplasty noses may accumulate too much scar tissue during the healing process, which can obscure the structure of the nose. In other cases, the original surgeon may have removed too much cartilage or failed to remove a dorsal hump. It takes a high level of skill to mitigate these post-surgical problems, and people considering a revision nose job should find a doctor with plenty of experience with nasal surgery.
Revision Rhinoplasty Before and After Photos
Revision Rhinoplasty Before and After Patient 1:
Dr. Joseph Russell has always appreciated how a skillfully executed rhinoplasty can dramatically transform an individual’s entire face, and this particular patient’s case serves as a poignant example of such a transformation. The patient had previously undergone two rhinoplasty surgeries elsewhere, but unfortunately, these procedures had the unintended effect of drawing attention to her nose rather than her eyes or cheeks.
For her third attempt, the patient chose Dr. Russell as her surgeon, and his goal was to provide her with a nose that harmonized seamlessly with her facial features and personality. Dr. Russell is pleased to report that the outcome was highly successful, and, most importantly, the patient now adores her new nose.
How Is a Revision Rhinoplasty Performed?
Each revision procedure is a little bit different. Surgeons will tailor each procedure to the needs of the patient, and the aesthetic and functional changes they want to make. Some patients may want to correct a bulbous tip, while others may seek an improvement in their breathing. The surgeon will address these concerns using an open or closed rhinoplasty technique.
During an open rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Joseph Russell makes an incision between the nostrils. This gives him unobstructed access to the nasal structure, which can improve accuracy in secondary nose procedures. With closed rhinoplasty procedures, on the other hand, he makes small incisions in the nostril lining. This approach is less invasive than the open technique, and it often requires less recovery time. Dr. Russell will decide to perform open or closed surgery based on each patient’s underlying structure and the changes he or she wants to make.
When Can Patients Undergo a Second Rhinoplasty?
Patients shouldn’t undergo a second corrective surgery until their nose is fully healed from the first surgery. After a primary rhinoplasty procedure, everyone heals at a different pace. It can take 12 to 18 months to see the final results. Because of this long healing process, patients shouldn’t rush to get a secondary procedure. Patience can be difficult, but it’s essential for patients who want a positive outcome to their secondary procedure.
What’s the Difference Between the First and Second Rhinoplasty?
While both primary and secondary rhinoplasty procedures use the same techniques, the patient experience isn’t exactly the same. Revision rhinoplasties usually take longer to perform than primary rhinoplasties; some surgeries take as long as four or five hours. Patients should also expect a lengthier healing process. While most of the swelling dissipates within one to two months after a primary procedure, it usually takes longer to resolve after a secondary nose job.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Revision Rhinoplasty?
These procedures are performed on people who are unhappy with their original nose job. Patients may be dissatisfied for any of the following reasons:
- Obstructed breathing
- Thick scar tissue
- Problems related to tip projection
- Problems related to tip width
- Problems related to dorsal height
- Asymmetry
- Cartilage collapse
- Insufficient cosmetic change
- Secondary Rhinoplasty Consultation
At your revision nose job consultation, Dr. Russell will evaluate your nose. He will look at your skin thickness, underlying structure, aesthetics, cartilage strength, and function. These factors influence how the nose job should be performed.
While it’s important for surgeons to examine the nose, it’s also important for patients to express their aesthetic and functional goals. They should be able to explain what they don’t like about their primary nose job.
Scheulde Your Consultation Today
If you’re interested in a revision surgery in Charleston, SC, consider Dr. Joseph Russell. He is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has been trained by one of the world’s premier facial surgeons in New York City. Please contact our office at (843) 576-3302 to schedule a revision consultation.