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Revision Rhinoplasty Benefits: Your Second Chance at Elegance
Revision rhinoplasty isn’t just a second chance—it’s an opportunity for precision, refinement, and true facial harmony. This procedure embodies the commitment to perfecting beauty and function, rectifying past discrepancies to unleash one’s true aesthetic potential.
Explaining Revision Rhinoplasty
A rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance and/or function of a patient’s nose. This is not an easy task—rhinoplasty is one of the most complex plastic surgeries available and things don’t always go to plan. That’s where revision rhinoplasty with the experts at Becker Plastic Surgery in Philadelphia and New Jersey can help.
What is Revision Rhinoplasty?
A secondary nose surgery that corrects the results of a previous nose job or aims to offer further benefits.
- Complexity: It is a complex procedure as the revision rhinoplasty specialist must preserve the nose’s functionality while making the aesthetic changes you desire.
- Scar Tissue: Existing scar tissue from the previous procedure makes the surgery even more difficult.
Nose Anatomy and Function
- Nasal Cavity: A hub for your sinuses, playing an important role in breathing. Obstructions can make it difficult to breathe easily and comfortably.
- Nasal Septum: A combination of bone and cartilage ending with your nostrils. An internal coating known as the mucous membrane contains many small blood vessels.
- Sensitivity: This vibrant ecosystem is intertwined and sensitive to the slightest change.
Challenges of Revision Rhinoplasty
- Surgical Alterations: An experienced plastic surgeon can make the necessary alterations while ensuring that everything continues to work as it should.
- Optimal Results: Providing optimal results while using the initial procedure as a starting point is challenging. A good aesthetic result depends on the surgeon’s skill and ability to preserve nasal function while creating the desired look.
Patient Results
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* All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
Ideal Candidates for Revision Rhinoplasty
The reasons people choose to have revision rhinoplasty span from cosmetic to functional. If you’re not happy with your appearance, experience difficulty breathing, or an accident has transpired since your first surgery, you may want to seek revision rhinoplasty. In terms of whether or not you’re an ideal candidate, if you’ve had a nose job in the past, chances are good that you will be eligible for a revision.
Keep in mind that changes in your health since the previous procedure may complicate matters. If you’ve developed heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other severe ailments, your doctor may advise against the surgery. In any case, you will undergo an examination that will help your surgeon decide if it’s safe to proceed.
Specific Issues Revision Rhinoplasty Address
- Breathing Difficulties: One of the most common issues following a primary rhinoplasty is difficulty in breathing. This can occur due to over-resection of nasal structures or the development of scar tissue, leading to obstruction in the nasal passages.
- Asymmetry and Aesthetic Dissatisfaction: Patients often seek revision rhinoplasty due to dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome of their first surgery. This can include issues like asymmetry, under-correction, or over-correction of nasal features.
- Structural Weakness: The structural integrity of the nose can be compromised in primary rhinoplasty, leading to issues like a collapsed bridge or pinched nasal tip.
- Persistent or Excessive Scarring: Excessive or poorly healed scar tissue can affect both the appearance and function of the nose, necessitating corrective surgery.
- Infection and Poor Healing: While relatively rare, infections or poor healing can occur after a nose job, potentially leading to more significant complications or the need for additional surgeries.
- Sensory Changes: Some patients experience changes in nasal sensation or prolonged numbness after their initial surgery.
- Psychological Impact: The emotional and psychological impact of an unsatisfactory nose job should not be underestimated. It can lead to decreased self-esteem and dissatisfaction with one’s appearance.
Exploring Risks: What to Consider for Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty, like all surgical procedures, carries its own set of risks. Potential patients need to be aware of these before undergoing additional surgery. These risks include:
- Complications with Anesthesia: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of adverse reactions to anesthesia.
- Infection: Any surgical procedure opens the possibility of infection, which can complicate recovery.
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery.
- Poor Healing: Nasal tissue may heal unpredictably, especially if the original procedure led to poor rhinoplasty outcomes.
- Scarring: While typically internal, some scarring may be visible depending on the extent of the surgery.
- Breathing Issues: Alterations to nasal structures can impact breathing, although the goal is often to improve it.
- Dissatisfaction with Results: Even with a skilled facial plastic surgeon, there’s no guarantee of achieving the desired facial appearance.
- Need for Further Surgery: In some cases, additional surgery may be required to attain the desired outcome.
The Secondary Rhinoplasty Procedure
The revision rhinoplasty surgery begins with careful incisions to access the nose’s underlying structures. Depending on what needs to be corrected, the surgeon will either use an open technique, with a small incision on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), or a closed technique, with incisions hidden inside the nostrils. The open approach offers a better view and is often chosen for more complex revisions, while the closed method is less invasive and used for minor adjustments. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for precise reshaping.
Once the nose is accessed, the surgeon starts the delicate task of reshaping the bone and cartilage. This might involve removing, adding, or repositioning tissue to correct deformities or improve breathing. Sometimes, grafts are needed for additional support, which can be taken from the patient’s septum, ear, or rib. The surgeon’s skill is key here, as these adjustments need to be made with great care to ensure both functional and aesthetic improvements.
After the structural changes are made, the nasal skin and tissue are carefully repositioned over the new shape. The incisions are then closed with fine sutures, designed to minimize any visible scarring. Throughout the surgery, the focus remains on achieving a natural look that also functions well. The entire process can take several hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Post-surgery, the patient is monitored to ensure a smooth recovery and to manage any initial swelling and bruising.
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Your Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery
The initial recovery period after your revision rhinoplasty, a specialized procedure among facial plastic surgeries, usually lasts about a week. During this time, it’s not uncommon to use ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Your doctor will remove your sutures and the cast, marking the beginning of a more active healing phase. Remember, just as with your first rhinoplasty, the bones in your nose require approximately six weeks after surgery to heal completely.
Full healing from revision rhinoplasty, however, can extend over several months to a little over a year. During this period, it’s crucial to balance rest with activity. Light exercise, such as walking, can be beneficial, but you must avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities that might stress your nose or disrupt the healing process.
Your surgeon will provide detailed guidance on how to gradually reintegrate into your daily routine. This tailored approach ensures that your recovery is as smooth and efficient as possible, optimizing your healing time. Regular check-ins with your doctor will help monitor the healing process, ensuring that your nose and overall facial aesthetics are recovering as expected.
The Cost of a Secondary Rhinoplasty
The cost of revision rhinoplasty can vary significantly based on factors like the extent of the additional surgery needed, the surgeon’s experience, and geographic location. Typically, these costs are higher than those for a primary rhinoplasty due to the complexity of correcting previous breathing issues or cosmetic procedures.
Considerations:
- Investing in a facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in revision procedures can lead to more satisfactory results.
- Insurance might cover part of the cost if the procedure addresses functional issues from the initial nose surgery.
- Cosmetic enhancements are usually out-of-pocket expenses.
- Discuss all cost-related aspects with your surgeon for a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved.
Why Choose Revision Rhinoplasty in Philadelphia and New Jersey
Understanding the unique challenges and complexities of revision rhinoplasty is crucial for anyone considering this procedure. Unlike primary surgery, revision cases often require a more nuanced approach due to the presence of scar tissue and altered nasal structures from previous surgeries.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, we specialize in these intricate procedures, offering our patients a blend of advanced surgical techniques and personalized care. Our expertise in revision rhinoplasty ensures that we not only correct aesthetic concerns regardless of skin thickness, but also restore and enhance nasal functionality, providing a balanced and natural appearance.
Our approach to revision rhinoplasty in Philadelphia and New Jersey is rooted in:
- A deep understanding of the emotional and physical journey our patients have undergone.
- Meticulous planning of each surgery, considering the individual’s specific anatomical structure and the outcomes of their previous surgeries.
- Delivering results that align closely with our patients’ visions.
- Helping patients regain confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.
Why choose the Doctors at Becker Plastic Surgery
Kirk Lozada, MD, FACS
- Completed his fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania and has trained with the top Facial Plastic Surgeons in Philadelphia, New York, and New Jersey.
- Has traveled to Ica, Peru with Healing the Children on multiple occasions performing a high volume of cleft lip and palate surgery.
- Is currently a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and has numerous publications and presentations in the field of facial plastic surgery.
Daniel Becker, MD, FACS
- Board Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT).
- Board Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS).
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
- Top-Rated by US News and World Report, Philadelphia Magazine, South Jersey Magazine, Castle-Connelly, and others.
- Read more about rhinoplasty specialist Dr. Becker’s credentials
Nicole Schrader, MD, FACS
- She is a double board certified surgeon in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology & Head/Neck Surgery.
- Is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Has over 20 years of experience, 15+ years in private practice and has performed hundreds of facelift surgeries.
- Dr. Schrader Recognized as Best Plastic Surgeon by Town Topics Readers’ Choice Awards.
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Revision Rhinoplasty: Frequently Asked Questions
Revision rhinoplasty differs from initial rhinoplasty in a few key ways. Answering a few commonly asked questions can help you understand how this procedure will differ from your first nose surgery.
The human body is a dynamic set of systems. Rarely can you have surgery and expect your body to remain unchanged in the long run. Rhinoplasty is a procedure that may need revisiting to achieve optimal results. Depending on how your tissue and nasal septum adjust after the first procedure, secondary surgery may be in order.
Furthermore, life isn’t constant and many unpredictable circumstances can affect your nose. An accident or a health matter can burden your breathing, causing you to seek relief. The most important factor when considering a revision nose surgery is whether or not your nose has healed from the first procedure.
As a general rule, you’ll want to wait at least a year before having revision surgery. Your revision rhinoplasty surgeon is the one to give you the green light for a secondary nose job or to put it off for a little longer.
During your consultation, your surgeon will give you detailed instructions to best prepare for the procedure. It will be the time when you can discuss things like the cost of revision rhinoplasty, as well. Make a note of as many questions as you can think of to bring to your initial consultation. Being informed is the best way to put yourself at ease with the procedure.
If you’re a smoker, you’ll have to stop for at least a month before surgery as nicotine can impede healing and cause potential complications. Smoking also interferes with blood flow which is essential for a comfortable recovery process and for minimizing side effects.
For the first couple of days after your surgery, you might want to get a family member or friend to help you with everyday tasks. While it may not be necessary to have someone to assist you at home, you’ll at least want to have a chaperone drive to and from the clinic.
Wearing roomy, comfortable clothes will be a great convenience on the day of the procedure, so plan accordingly. As per your doctor’s suggestion, you may want to get a humidifier to be used at night for at least the first few days.
Although you can have the procedure during any season, choosing a cooler time of the year is best. This suggestion holds for most types of cosmetic surgery for three main reasons.
Cold weather justifies wearing bulkier clothes and accessories such as hats. This will help in taking emphasis away from any bruising and swelling that results from surgery. It will also help protect your nasal skin from the sun’s UV rays.
Colder temperatures promote healing in the body and will help you recover more effectively during those first weeks and months post-surgery. This occurs because of better blood circulation combined with reduced inflammation.
A third, and possibly overlooked reason to choose the winter months is the presence of more holidays. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays provide a convenient opportunity for taking time off work for recovery.
Minor pain may surface during recovery, but your doctor will likely recommend over-the-counter pain management options. If you are more sensitive to pain, your surgeon may prescribe more potent pain medication. In any case, you will not be left to suffer during your recovery.
Bruising and swelling may appear depending on how extensive the surgery is and how your body, in particular, reacts to the procedure. It may last a few days for up to two weeks but will usually be contained to the area surrounding the eyes. Keeping your doctor up to date will help them monitor your recovery.
Recovery from revision rhinoplasty can be more complex compared to primary rhinoplasty. This is due to the presence of scar tissue and changes in nasal structures from the previous surgery. Patients might experience longer swelling periods, and the overall healing progress may take more time. Patients must follow recovery instructions meticulously and keep in close contact with their surgeon for optimal recovery.
Scar tissue from previous nose surgeries can make revision rhinoplasty more challenging. Scar tissue is less pliable than normal tissue, which can limit the options for reshaping the nose. It can also obscure the underlying nasal structures, making it difficult for the surgeon to assess and modify them. Surgeons must carefully work around this scar tissue to achieve the desired outcome while maintaining or improving nasal function.
Yes, revision rhinoplasty can often improve breathing problems caused by a previous nose job. These issues may arise from over-resection of nasal structures, causing obstructions or collapse of nasal valves. In revision rhinoplasty, the surgeon can use grafting techniques to strengthen and support the nasal framework, thereby improving nasal airway function. The specific approach depends on the nature and extent of the breathing issue and the overall nose structure.
Yes, revision rhinoplasty can often improve breathing problems caused by a previous nose job. These issues may arise from over-resection of nasal structures, causing obstructions or collapse of nasal valves. In revision rhinoplasty, the surgeon can use grafting techniques to strengthen and support the nasal framework, thereby improving nasal airway function. The specific approach depends on the nature and extent of the breathing issue and the overall nose structure.
If you live in the states of Pennsylvania or New Jersey, Becker Plastic Surgery offers revision rhinoplasty among its services. For a full list of services, please visit our locations page.