What is Revisional Rhinoplasty?

Revisional rhinoplasty is a specialized procedure that corrects unsatisfactory results from a previous rhinoplasty. This surgery is often more complex than primary rhinoplasty due to scar tissue, altered anatomy, and any need to address functional and aesthetic issues. At FACES+, Dr. Cohen understands the physical and emotional impact of a failed rhinoplasty and is committed to helping you achieve the results you originally envisioned. Revisional rhinoplasty in San Diego with Dr. Cohen offers a second chance to refine your nose and restore balance to your facial features.

When a Nose Job Goes Wrong

What Can Revisional Rhinoplasty Correct?

Revisional rhinoplasty can address a wide range of issues resulting from a previous rhinoplasty, including:

  • Asymmetry: Corrects uneven or imbalanced nasal structures that may have resulted from the initial surgery.
  • Breathing Difficulties: Resolves functional issues, such as breathing obstruction, which may have arisen due to improper healing or structural changes.
  • Pinched Tip: Restores a more natural shape to the nasal tip if it appears pinched or overly narrow after the first surgery.
  • Collapsed Bridge: Rebuilds the nasal bridge if it has collapsed or lost support, improving both appearance and function.
  • Residual Deformities: Addresses any remaining bumps, depressions, or other aesthetic concerns that were not fully resolved in the initial procedure.
  • Scar Tissue: Manages and minimizes scar tissue that may have formed due to the initial surgery, affecting the nose’s appearance and function.
  • Droopy Tip: Lifts and supports a drooping nasal tip to restore a more attractive profile.
  • Over-Resection: Restores nasal structure and volume if too much cartilage or bone was removed during the first surgery.
  • Short Nose: Lengthens the nose if it appears too short or upturned after previous surgery.
  • Crooked Nose: Straightens a nose that has become crooked or misaligned after the initial rhinoplasty.
  • Under-Correction: Enhances the results of the initial surgery when it fails to meet the patient’s expectations.
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What is the Procedure?

Revisional rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia and can involve various techniques depending on the issues being addressed. The procedure requires a careful and detailed approach, as the surgeon must work with altered anatomy and the scar tissue of the first surgery. Incisions are usually placed in the location of the original surgery, either inside the nostrils or across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), to access the nasal structures.

The surgeon may need to add or reshape bone and cartilage, address functional issues, or correct aesthetic concerns such as asymmetry or a pinched tip. Due to the complexity of revisional rhinoplasty, the surgery may take longer than a primary rhinoplasty, often taking several hours.

Revisional Rhinoplasty Before & After

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What Is the Recovery Time After Revision Rhinoplasty?

Recovery from revision rhinoplasty is like that of a primary rhinoplasty, although it may involve a slightly longer healing process due to the complexity of the procedure. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort in the first week, with most swelling subsiding within a few weeks. You will be given aftercare instructions to ensure you know how to care for your newly reshaped nose. 

Basic Rules for Revisional Rhinoplasty Recovery

  • Avoid Heavy Lifting: Refrain from lifting heavy objects (anything over 10 pounds) for at least 2-3 weeks post-surgery to prevent strain and reduce the risk of bleeding or swelling.
  • Limit Physical Activity: Avoid vigorous activities, including running, cycling, and aerobics, for at least four to six weeks. Gradually ease back into your regular exercise routine when your surgeon advises.
  • No Contact Sports: Steer clear of contact sports like football, basketball, or martial arts for at least six weeks to prevent any impact on your healing nose.
  • Keep the Head Elevated: Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows or in a recliner for the first week or two to minimize swelling and aid proper drainage.
  • Do Not Blow Your Nose: Do not blow your nose for at least two weeks post-surgery. If you need to sneeze, open your mouth to reduce pressure on your nose.
  • Protect Your Nose: Wear sunglasses or eyeglasses with caution and avoid resting them on the bridge of your nose for at least four to six weeks.
  • Stay Away from Saunas or Hot Baths: Avoid hot environments, such as saunas, steam rooms, or hot baths, for the first few weeks, as heat can increase swelling.
  • No Smoking or Alcohol: Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol during your recovery period, as these can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.
  • Gentle Cleaning Only: Be gentle around the nose area when cleaning your face. Avoid any scrubbing or pressure that could affect the surgical site.
  • Follow Dietary Recommendations: Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing in the first few days to avoid unnecessary movement of your facial muscles.
  • Attend All Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.

These rules are essential for ensuring a smooth and successful recovery from rhinoplasty. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for the best outcomes.

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Why Choose Us?

Revisional rhinoplasty requires the skill and experience of a surgeon who understands the complexities of nasal anatomy and the challenges of correcting a previous surgery. Dr. Steven R. Cohen brings his extensive expertise and reputation as one of the top plastic surgeons in the world to every revisional rhinoplasty procedure in San Diego at FACES+. 

Dr. Cohen’s approach is meticulous and artistic, ensuring that your surgery is tailored to your unique needs and delivers the most natural and satisfying results. With his innovative techniques and deep understanding of facial harmony, Dr. Cohen is committed to helping you achieve the nose you’ve always wanted, even if your first surgery didn’t go as planned.

The art of rhinoplasty is precisely that. For a surgeon, rhinoplasty could be compared to sculpture. The outcome of the surgery should be perfectly balanced. Because of our in-depth experience with complex nasal surgery, the surgeons at FACES+ can often help when revisions are needed after a previous surgery.

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