You may want to undergo a revision rhinoplasty for several reasons. Perhaps you’re not happy with the results of your first surgery, or you are experiencing functional complications. Revision rhinoplasty can correct the functional and aesthetic concerns arising from your primary rhinoplasty.
Address problems arising following a previous nose job
The nose is an extremely complex structure that should only be handled by facial plastic surgeons with specialized training in rhinoplasty. Even minor flaws in surgical technique can lead to unwanted complications that compromise the aesthetic and functional result. Common problems experienced after a rhinoplasty include an overly narrow or misshapen tip and difficulty breathing.
Dr. Hicks is a board-certified, double-fellowship trained facial plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty techniques for patients of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. She uses cutting-edge rhinoplasty techniques to correct your aesthetic and functional concerns while still maintaining a natural result. If you’re dissatisfied with the results of your primary rhinoplasty, Dr. Hicks’ revision rhinoplasty surgery can address and correct the problems, helping you achieve the desired results.
Possible reasons for a revision rhinoplasty:
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- Breathing problems
- Overly narrow, pinched tip
- Misshapen or abnormal-appearing tip
- Loss of support within the nose
- Asymmetry of nasal bones or cartilage
What is revision rhinoplasty?
Any rhinoplasty surgery after your primary (first) surgery is revision rhinoplasty. You may undergo a revision rhinoplasty to correct problems arising from a previous rhinoplasty, which may include concerns that are aesthetic, functional, or often both.. Some patients only need revision rhinoplasty to correct one section of the nose, and others need it for the entire nose.
As with primary rhinoplasty, a revision rhinoplasty involves making carefully placed incisions inside or outside the nose.. Addressing problems often requires a combined approach, involving manipulation of skin, soft tissue, cartilage, and bone. Depending on the amount of structural work required, she may recommend using ear cartilage, rib cartilage, or other tissues to achieve the best possible result.
When is the right time for revision rhinoplasty?
Some patients believe they can pursue a revision rhinoplasty immediately after the primary procedure. However, you should wait at least six months to a year before undergoing a revision procedure. Even if you are unhappy, there are a couple of reasons why it is best to wait. First, after your primary rhinoplasty, it can take around one year or more for you to see the final results of your procedure. Additionally, you must be completely healed from your initial surgery before it is safe for Dr. Hicks to do any additional procedures in the same area.
Your revision rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Hicks
Dr. Hicks will perform a thorough evaluation before your revision rhinoplasty. During your consultation, she will review your medical history and discuss your goals and concerns. During consultations for any revision procedure, one of the most important things to discuss is your previous surgery. Dr. Hicks needs to know as much as possible about your previous surgery, including what was done and when it was done. If you are able to get your operative reports from your first surgery, this is very helpful..
After a thorough discussion of your history, Dr. Hicks will use a 3-D simulation program to “morph” your nose and provide a visual representation of the anticipated result of your revision rhinoplasty. By the end of the consultation, Dr. Hicks will have a complete understanding of your medical and surgical history, and she will have worked with you to formulate a plan for your revision surgery, ensuring that you understand and are comfortable with the plan.
What can I expect after revision rhinoplasty?
The recovery process after revision rhinoplasty is similar to the recovery process after a primary procedure, except that swelling and numbness generally last for a longer period of time. You will experience some swelling, numbness, tenderness, bruising, and discomfort around your nose. Your nose may also feel congested and stuffed while the splints are in place – this will improve when the splints are removed one week after your surgery. You may resume work and light exercise after a week, and you may slowly increase activity back to your normal level, starting about 10-14 days after surgery. In most cases, you should wait 4 weeks before wearing glasses and 6-8 weeks before participating in contact sports. Although the results will continue to improve over several months, most patients feel comfortable in social situations after a week or two. It can take several months for your nose to heal completely.
Does a revision rhinoplasty include the entire nose?
Your revision rhinoplasty is personalized according to your specific needs. Some patients need modifications to the entire nose, and some may only need minor adjustments in a specific section of the nose. Dr. Hicks will discuss your goals and evaluate your nose to determine the ideal approach for your revision rhinoplasty.
Benefits of revision rhinoplasty:
- Improve the overall contours of your nose
- Allow you to breathe more comfortably
- Reduce the incidents of sinus infections
- Make your nose look more symmetrical and proportionate
- Improve overall facial harmony
- Achieve the results you originally wanted
- Open up the nasal passage
- Improve self-esteem and confidence
How is revision rhinoplasty performed?
Dr. Hicks performs your revision rhinoplasty under general anesthesia in a state-of-the-art operating room. The specific details of the procedure depend on your unique needs. If possible, she will use the incisions made during the first procedure. The majority of revision rhinoplasty procedures are done via the “open” approach, with a tiny skin incision on the bottom of your nose (columella).
After making an incision, she will modify the internal soft tissue and bony structures of the nose. In general, revision cases will require cartilage grafting. This cartilage may be able to come from your nose, but in many cases, there is not enough nasal cartilage left, and Dr. Hicks will need to obtain and use ear or rib cartilage instead. After making all of the necessary adjustments, Dr. Hicks will close the incisions with tiny sutures, insert nasal splints inside the nose, and place a small cast on the outside of the nose.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hicks
Dr. Kate Hicks is a board-certified, double fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty. She completed two facial plastic surgery fellowships, providing the exposure necessary to become a successful rhinoplasty surgeon. This foundation, coupled with her talent and excellent surgical skills, have made Dr. Hicks a sought-after rhinoplasty surgeon. She ensures complete transparency and discusses your treatment options at length, so you have the information to make an educated decision. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Hicks to explore your revision rhinoplasty options in Greenville, South Carolina.
