Revision Rhinoplasty

Offered at our convenient location in Scottsdale, Arizona

Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to address functional and aesthetic issues in the nose due to dissatisfaction with the results of previous rhinoplasty surgery. Also called “secondary” rhinoplasty, patients seek this corrective surgery when their realistic rhinoplasty expectations are not met or when functional issues remain after surgery. 

Rhinoplasty, one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the world [1], is also one of the most complex surgical procedures. While finding a plastic surgeon who can execute the best results the first time is crucial, there is hope for men and women for whom this is not the case. A second surgery to adjust the shape of the nose or correct breathing issues is available.

Your nose is front and center; there is no hiding it – or yoru feelings about a bad nose job. Most likely, as your nose began to heal from your rhinoplasty, you examined it at length from every angle. Perfection is a myth, but the imperfections of a botched nose job can be difficult to mask and hard to ignore. Therefore, it’s essential to seek help from an experienced plastic surgeon able to address both cosmetic and functional issues.

Double board-certified surgeon Dr. Andrew Wolin of Wolin Plastic Surgery Center can help you love your nose. Dr. Wolin is a skilled surgeon with vast experience in rhinoplasty as well as cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and body. As a member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Ear Nose and Throat / Facial Surgery, you can rest easy under the care of Dr. Wolin. If the results of your original rhinoplasty have left you feeling distressed, call our Scottsdale, AZ office to schedule a consultation. We are standing by to help you; call (480) 945-8440 or fill out our contact form.

Before and After Photos

More About Revision Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a challenging operation that relies on intricate skills to balance cosmetic improvements and nasal function. As a result, patients can experience cosmetic deformities due to insufficient tissue removal or an extreme surgical approach resulting in structural tissue deficiency. [2]

The psychological importance of the face makes rhinoplasty a high-stakes event that sometimes fails to meet expectations. You may want assurances that your investment in revision rhinoplasty will return in emotional dividends; you can be sure that Dr. Wolin will offer a straightforward assessment of the possibilities of revising your original rhinoplasty. But, first, let’s take a closer look at the delicate structures of the nose that he will address during your revision rhinoplasty.

The Nasal Dorsum

The nasal dorsum, or “bridge” of the nose, connects the nose to the face. Also called the dorsum nasi, a visually unpleasant contour or “hump” is one of the main reasons patients seek out rhinoplasty in the first place. In some cases, the patient will only need what is called a “completion rhinoplasty.” [2] In this case, Dr. Wolin would complete the original rhinoplasty by judiciously removing only the excess tissue necessary to create a pleasing nasal dorsum

In cases where patients experienced an overzealous trimming of the dorsum tissue in their primary surgery, Dr. Wolin must address the profile and a possibly weakened structure during the revision. As an advocate of preservation rhinoplasty, he will take special care to strengthen the bridge while staying within the parameters of an aesthetically pleasing contour.

The Overgrafted Nose

Another common cause of excess tissue is an overzealous use of graft materials, known as the overgrafted nose. Grafted material must be removed, replaced, or modified to achieve a reconfigured framework. [2] Dr. Wolin will determine if the existing nasal framework is twisted or asymmetric or if the necessary changes are superficial.

Is Revision Rhinoplasty Right for You?

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Wolin; here, he will be able to examine your nose to see if a second surgery can address your concerns. Dr. Wolin understands the frustration and hopelessness that can accompany a rhinoplasty that doesn’t meet your expectations; he is here to help to the best of his abilities.

Perhaps your reason for seeking revision rhinoplasty is listed below:

  • Nasal dorsum (“bridge”) irregularities
  • Asymmetry
  • Breathing problems
  • Width issues: too wide or too thin
  • Trauma or injury affected the original surgical outcome
  • Other minor adjustments

With that in mind, you should reach a few milestones before considering revisional surgery.

How Long Do You Have to Wait Before Getting Another Nose Job?

As difficult as it is to come face-to-face daily with a nose you are unhappy with, it is important that you give your rhinoplasty time to heal; the recommended wait time after your original surgery is twelve months. Additionally, revision rhinoplasty may not be suitable for patients struggling with BDD (body dysmorphic disorder), obstructive sleep apnea, or for active cocaine users.

Dr. Wolin will carefully consider what he has to work with and how revision will affect the structure of your nose. He wants this to be the last nose job you will ever need and will do his best to give you the results you were excited about the first time. Don’t lose hope that you will one day love your nose. Give us a call at (480) 945-8440 to start the consultation process.

What are the Benefits of Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty can have a profound impact on the psychological challenges faced by a patient who is unhappy with their primary procedure. Often, patients feel a sense of excitement leading up to their original surgery; the idea of correcting a nose that may have been a source of embarrassment or shame inspires hope! But confidence is lost when their results are not what they expect or worse than before. Patients also may fear that a second surgery will repeat these same feelings. 

Successful revision rhinoplasty is one of the most satisfying procedures for surgeons because of the joy and quality of life it restores to the patient. [2] Experience a more aesthetically pleasing nose and better functionality with a successful revision rhinoplasty with Dr. Wolin!

Personal Consultation

Dr. Wolin counsels all revision rhinoplasty candidates during the consultation process focusing on three main aspects:

  1. The Examination – A thorough examination of your nose will help Dr. Wolin assess the severity of your failed rhinoplasty.
  2. The Risk Involved – You will be made aware of the risk-to-benefit ratio of your case.
  3. Realistic Expectations – Most notably, a frank discussion about the practical results of your revision rhinoplasty will ensure you are satisfied with your second attempt at loving your nose.

Surgical demands of revision rhinoplasty are considerable, but Dr. Wolin has devoted a large portion of his practice to understanding the complexities of this vital structure.

The Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure

No two rhinoplasties are the same, and the extreme is true for revision rhinoplasty. A well-executed surgery has as much to do with the state of the patient’s tissue and structure as with the surgeon’s expertise. You will be well-informed before surgery of the techniques Dr. Wolin will use to reconstruct your nose, keeping in mind that often there are decisions that need to be made in the moment. Dr. Wolin uses an approach to primary and secondary rhinoplasty procedures called preservation rhinoplasty. This approach prioritizes keeping the structures of the nose intact, and surgeons will use a variety of techniques, including strategically placed sutures to reposition rather than remove nasal tissue. 

Your secondary rhinoplasty will be performed under twilight anesthesia. Patients will need to take about a week off from work and should arrange for a ride home from surgery, as well as a caretaker the first night.

Revision Rhinoplasty Aftercare

The aftercare follows the same protocols as your original rhinoplasty:

  • We will fit you with a nasal splint – please plan to wear it for five to seven days.
  • Refrain from exaggerated facial expressions during your healing.
  • Do not take showers or swim while you have a nasal splint.
  • Do not wear eyeglasses or sunglasses or let anything rest on the bridge of your nose.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for about a month.
  • Take prescribed pain medication to manage your comfort level.

Dr. Wolin will advise you when you can remove your nasal splint and when it is okay to do certain things like blow your nose. You may experience bruising under your eyes and some swelling, but these should subside in a week to ten days. Your final results will be visible in six months to a year.

Dr. Wolin and the dedicated staff at Wolin Plastic Surgery Center will closely monitor your results. Whether your revision rhinoplasty surgery is straightforward or complex, our goal is to create a comfortable environment from the start so you can relax into the idea that you can have an attractive and functional nose that flatters your face.

What is the Cost of Revision Rhinoplasty in Scottsdale, AZ?

During your consultation, we will discuss your procedure and associated costs. Call us at (480) 945-8440 to schedule your consultation!

FAQ

How long will my healing process take?

Because revision rhinoplasty deals with scarred tissue, the healing process may be longer than your original procedure because scarred tissue takes longer to heal. Speak with Dr. Wolin or his staff about the projected recovery time for your procedure during your consultation. 

How many revision rhinoplasties can a patient get?

While there is theoretically no limit to the number of rhinoplasties a patient can get, there are limitations to the ability of the tissues that make up your nose to continue to respond to multiple surgeries. Dr. Wolin’s goal is to improve cosmetic defects while maintaining nasal functionality, so he must carefully weigh the risks and benefits.

Is there anything else that will aid in my recovery?

A strong emotional support network is essential to help you recover from revision rhinoplasty. Lean on your family and friends to help you around the house and keep your spirits up while you heal.

References

  1. Fichman, M., & Piedra Buena, I. T. (2020). Rhinoplasty. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/ 
  2. Davis, R. E., (2016, May 24). Revision Rhinoplasty. Ento Key. https://entokey.com/revision-rhinoplasty/