Revision Rhinoplasty: What You Need to Know

Revision rhinoplasty, also called corrective rhinoplasty or secondary rhinoplasty, is performed to correct a previous rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons or to address breathing complications. Because of the complex structure of the nose, rhinoplasty itself is among the most complicated plastic surgery procedures. And given the fact that your nose sits in the center of your face, it’s also one of the most important cosmetic surgeries you can have done.

Considering all of this, it’s no surprise that up to 15% of rhinoplasty patients seek a revision procedure to address unsatisfactory outcomes. Revision rhinoplasty is even more complicated than primary rhinoplasty surgery because the tissue has already been altered, which makes the procedure more technically complex and the recovery time longer.

In the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon like Norman J. Pastorek, MD, PC, FACS, however, New York residents can expect the procedure to go smoothly with minimal added scar tissue, reduced swelling, a quicker recovery, and pleasing results.

Important things to know about revision rhinoplasty

Even in the hands of a skilled surgeon, your rhinoplasty results may not be satisfactory. And even if you are initially satisfied with your new nose, as time goes by and your nose continues to heal, changes may occur that you’re not so fond of. One of the reasons rhinoplasty is such a complicated procedure is that the healing process of the nose can be unpredictable.

If you do decide to undergo a corrective rhinoplasty, here are some things you should know:

• You should be very explicit with your surgeon about why you’re unhappy and what you want to correct
• You don’t have to return to the same surgeon who performed your initial rhinoplasty
• It may cost more due to the complex nature of the surgery
• The procedure may take longer than the initial rhinoplasty
• Revision rhinoplasty carries the same risks as primary rhinoplasty, including temporary loss of smell, swelling, small blood vessel bursts, and scarring
• Because of the complex nature of the surgery, you should only work with a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience and training in this procedure

How long should I wait to have a revision rhinoplasty?

Even if you’re immediately unhappy with the results of your initial procedure, you should wait at least a year before undergoing a revision rhinoplasty. Most of the swelling subsides within the first couple of months, but it can take a year or more for all swelling to dissipate.

Additionally, it takes about a year for scar tissue to soften. Firm scar tissue can interfere with your surgeon’s ability to make the corrections you’re seeking. If you’ve already had a revision rhinoplasty, it can take even longer for the scar tissue to heal.

Because of the complex nature of revision rhinoplasty, it’s important to take your time deciding whether it’s a procedure you really want. Plus, after all the swelling has gone down, you may decide you actually like your new nose and don’t need a second surgery. Take your time making the decision that’s right for you.

If you’re unhappy with your rhinoplasty results, call or make an appointment online with Dr. Pastorek to find out more about revision rhinoplasty. As one of the premier plastic surgeons in New York with over 30 years of experience, Dr. Pastorek is especially adept at revision rhinoplasty, having performed more than 7,000 rhinoplasties over his long career.