Revision rhinoplasty is a procedure sought by patients who have previously undergone rhinoplasty but are dissatisfied with the results for various reasons.
Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) is one of those procedures that may seem simple but is actually quite challenging because it is not a standard surgical procedure. The complex anatomy of the nose is one of the main factors that make nose surgery difficult.
The difficulty of rhinoplasty surgery lies not with the patient, but with the doctor. The need for a different plan for each patient and the requirement to meet the patient's visual expectations, i.e., their desire for an aesthetically pleasing nose, are among the primary challenges.
Rhinoplasty, as a necessity of our time, should always raise the bar higher and offer a painless, aesthetic, and comfortable process. Procedures performed by surgeons who cannot meet these conditions fail to achieve the desired result.
Who Needs Revision Rhinoplasty?
Even after undergoing rhinoplasty, individuals may still experience functional or aesthetic problems with their nose, resulting in the need for revision rhinoplasty.
Even the smallest mistake during the operation can lead to both functional and aesthetic problems. If the surgeon performing the surgery removes more or less tissue than necessary from the patient's nose, a second rhinoplasty procedure may be required.
Revision rhinoplasty is always more difficult and complex than the initial surgery. For this reason, knowledge, experience, and skill are extremely important in revision rhinoplasty.
Why is Revision Rhinoplasty Needed?
Revision rhinoplasty is needed when a person is dissatisfied with their previous rhinoplasty surgery for various reasons.
There are many factors that can cause various problems after rhinoplasty surgery.
The most common of these factors are as follows:
- Failure to clarify issues prior to surgery,
- Certain surgical errors,
- Certain characteristics of the patient's nasal structure that complicate the surgery (e.g., nasal skin being too thin or too thick)
- Problems arising in the patient during the postoperative recovery period (infection, impact, trauma to the operated area, etc.)
Factors that cause visual problems requiring revision rhinoplasty can be summarized as follows:
- The patient is dissatisfied with their nose despite there being no obvious aesthetic or visual problems,
- Small irregularities on the bridge of the nose,
- Asymmetry in the tip of the nose,
- Problems that negatively affect the nose not only visually but also functionally (asymmetries that cause the patient to have breathing problems, etc.),
- Major deformities that can cause the patient to have serious breathing problems.
How is Revision Rhinoplasty Performed?
The first thing to consider in revision rhinoplasty is why the patient was dissatisfied with their previous surgery. In other words, the first step in revision rhinoplasty is to identify the problem. This allows the surgery to be planned according to the specific problem experienced by the patient.
Cartilage located inside the nose is often used in revision rhinoplasty surgery. The positions of these cartilages are changed to reshape the nose to the desired level. However, in some cases, there is not enough cartilage tissue inside the nose to reconstruct the nose. In these cases, cartilage is taken from the rib and revision rhinoplasty is performed. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
Another important point to know about revision rhinoplasty is that at least 6 months must have passed since the previous surgery for this revision surgery to be performed.
After rhinoplasty, patients must wait patiently during the recovery period. Patients should not be concerned about swelling, bruising, and swelling that occur during the recovery period and should wait patiently. If the results do not change after a 6-12 month waiting period and the patient is not satisfied with their nose, revision rhinoplasty should be considered.
Choosing a Doctor for Revision Rhinoplasty
With advances in technology, cosmetic surgery has become much more comfortable and widespread, and is therefore no longer considered a luxury. The observed successful results and simple recovery process have encouraged people to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Although this process may seem simple for the patient, it is not so simple for the surgeon performing the rhinoplasty. Therefore, it would be wrong to make a careless choice of doctor based on this misconception. The importance of choosing a doctor is twice as important, especially in revision rhinoplasty. No one wants to go through the same thing again after one or more unsuccessful operations.
To master rhinoplasty, one must be a good observer and listener. It requires expertise to carry out a separate planning process for each patient and to implement these plans with manual dexterity. Therefore, choosing an experienced surgeon is of great importance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revision Rhinoplasty
Is revision rhinoplasty difficult?
Revision rhinoplasty can be more complex than the initial rhinoplasty, as factors such as the condition of existing nasal tissues, scarring from the previous surgery, and the availability of cartilage can affect the process. When performed by an experienced surgeon, a comfortable and safe operation can be ensured for the patient.
How long does it take to recover from revision rhinoplasty?
The recovery period after revision rhinoplasty varies from person to person, but swelling and bruising usually subside within the first few weeks. Full recovery and the final shape of the nose are typically achieved within 6 months to 1 year.
How much does revision rhinoplasty cost?
The cost of revision rhinoplasty depends on the surgeon’s experience, the hospital’s location, and the complexity of the operation. It is recommended to have a consultation with a specialist to receive an accurate price estimate.
How can a failed rhinoplasty be recognized?
A failed rhinoplasty can often be identified by symptoms such as breathing difficulties, noticeable asymmetry, collapse of the nasal structure, or a nasal tip positioned differently than expected. In such cases, a revision surgery may be required.
How many months should one be careful after nose surgery?
After rhinoplasty, the nose should be protected from trauma for at least 6 months. Heavy exercise should be avoided, and sun exposure should be minimized. Complete healing may take up to one year.
Is revision surgery risky?
As with any surgical procedure, revision rhinoplasty carries certain risks. These include prolonged healing, infection, or unsatisfactory aesthetic results. However, these risks can be minimized when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.
How many days after nose surgery are difficult?
During the first 3–7 days after rhinoplasty, mild pain, swelling, and nasal congestion may occur. The first week is generally the most uncomfortable period, but most patients can resume daily activities by the second week.