Understanding Revision Rhinoplasty

If you’re considering revision rhinoplasty, are you wondering why your first Orlando surgeon didn’t get your nose quite right or why your nose is still crooked, asymmetric, or bumpy?  Well, honestly speaking, your surgeon probably pondered over the same issues. 

When patients go through rhinoplasty or cosmetic nose surgery they have many questions concerning healing times, aftercare, the recovery process, possible Kenalog injections, and medications. They ask about when they can return to work or school, how to compress or massage the nose, and most importantly, whether their result will be just what they hoped for.  

Why Does Primary Rhinoplasty Fail?

Your primary surgeon, like you, wanted the ideal result and for you to be happy. But neither of you can predict the future, and you’re experiencing signs that you need a revision. You may have followed all instructions, maintained all needed follow-up visits, been patient, and waited the full year of healing to no avail.  You may have lost confidence in your primary surgeon or moved to a new state and can’t go back or are afraid to. Maybe many years have passed, and your nose is changing.

Watch this video to learn why Amanda chose a revision rhinoplasty:

In short, there can be emotional issues and unexplained reasons for patient dissatisfaction after primary rhinoplasty. Was the poor result related to surgeon inexperience, poor performance, lack of training, your anatomy, lack of understanding of the risks, or unrealistic expectations?  So many unanswered questions.  So what to do?  

Who Are the Best Revision Rhinoplasty Surgeons?

Certainly, at this point in the contemplation of revision rhinoplasty, we would only recommend a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive years of experience.  As a group, we are familiar with the structural and functional components of rhinoplasty. 

Why Do You Need Revision Rhinoplasty?

There are many reasons you may need a revision rhinoplasty, we generally see that the inexperienced surgeon removed too much tissue and damaged the support structure in the primary rhinoplasty, which can cause curvature, weakness, collapse, and breathing issues.  Therefore, cartilage grafting from the septum (or ear cartilage) known as structural rhinoplasty is usually required to build up certain areas that are weak. 

Other areas that have excess scar tissue or thickened cartilage may require removal.  Moreover, the use of a computer imager to project your anticipated results on revision nose surgery is critical. But please be mindful that perfection/ symmetry is not possible with primary rhinoplasty and more importantly, with revision rhinoplasty. 

What Are the Risks With Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty, like primary rhinoplasty, comes with its share of risks. They include:

  • Temporary loss of sense of smell
  • Prolonged swelling
  • Bursting of small blood vessels
  • New scarring
  • Skin loss or indentations
  • Healing complications
  • Unexpected deformity
  • Asymmetry
  • Further cosmetic or functional issues

Dr. Gross will explain the relevant risks to you before recommending surgery, but no one can guarantee that risks will not occur. In some cases, he does NOT recommend additional surgery due to potential risks outweighing the benefits. These are difficult conversations but sometimes it is better to live with a nose that may have some imperfections rather than risk greater problems. 

Why Is Revision Rhinoplasty So Difficult?

Keep in mind, the revision procedure is usually more complex and complicated than the primary rhinoplasty and requires a surgeon with a sophisticated understanding of nasal structure, anatomy, function, and surgical technique. As such, it can take longer to perform, requires unique skill sets, and may cost significantly more. 

With Revision Rhinoplasty, Experience Matters

Revision rhinoplasty comprises a large part of our practice. Dr. Gross performs 30 to 40 cases each year and receives referrals from other surgeons because of his outcomes and vast experience. Dr. Gross’ double board certifications assure his extensive training. He has passed rigorous examinations and is up to date on the latest technology and techniques, as they pertain to this procedure. 

Our mission here at Primera is to provide exceptional concierge care, with a passion for natural and long-lasting results you can feel confident about. You can see some of our patients’ results in their revision rhinoplasty before and after photos.

If you’re concerned about your primary rhinoplasty results and want to talk about your best options with an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon in Orlando, call us at (407) 333-3040 or use our online form to request a consultation.

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