5 Factors You Should Consider Before Choosing Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty (also called secondary rhinoplasty) is a surgical procedure designed to repair both the form and function of a nose that has previously been operated on. While the vast majority of those who have had a nose job are satisfied with the results, an estimated 15% of patients seek a second surgery because they’ve developed breathing difficulties or have found that cosmetic issues still exist.

If you’re thinking about revision rhinoplasty, the team at Northeastern Plastic Surgery wanted to make sure that you carefully consider these five factors before moving forward.

1. Timing Is Everything.

You may be tempted to correct any perceived issues soon after the initial surgery, but it’s best to wait at least a year before undergoing another procedure. That’s ample time to allow the healing process to complete, swelling to subside, and scar tissue to soften. Then you’ll have a realistic idea of what your nose looks like and what, if any, further corrections need to be made.

2. Secondary Surgeries Can Be Simple or Complex.

The simplest rhinoplasty revisions are those that entail removing a bit more cartilage to enhance symmetry or reduce the size of the nose. More often, however, revision rhinoplasty involves adding cartilage to help resolve breathing issues or to recreate the shape of the nose. Extra cartilage can be taken from the nasal septum, your ear, or one of your ribs. These procedures are much more complicated than the primary rhinoplasty and can take up to four hours to complete.

3. Revision Rhinoplasty Has Risks.

Revision rhinoplasty, like a primary nose job, has specific risks associated with it, including:

• Temporary loss of sense of smell
• Prolonged swelling around the nose and face
• Bursting of small blood vessels
• Excessive scarring
• Bruising
• Loss of skin
• Complications from anesthesia

Plus, there are no guarantees that the second surgery will completely fix the issues caused by the first surgery. You should have an open and honest discussion with your surgeon about these risks and your expectations.

4. Be Ready for Recovery.

Recovering from your second rhinoplasty is similar to recovering from your first surgery. You may experience any of the following:

• Swelling inside the nose that will cause you to feel “stuffed-up.” You may be tempted to blow your nose, but try not to because it could cause a nosebleed and delay healing.
• Headaches or pain around your face. Drink a lot of water and take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor to help alleviate the discomfort.
• Moderate bleeding. Dress your nose with gauze and change as often as needed.
• Feeling dizzy or nauseated. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest will help reduce the severity of these symptoms.
• Swelling and bruising around the cheeks, eyelids, and nose. Use ice packs on your cheeks and eyelids to reduce swelling, but avoid putting ice directly on your nose.

5. Consider the Cost.

It may be surprising, but revision rhinoplasty usually costs more than primary rhinoplasty, mainly because it is a more complex surgery. If the average primary nose job costs about $7,500, then you can expect a revision to cost up to $15,000. Your health insurance may cover any costs associated with correcting breathing problems, but not those associated with purely cosmetic issues. Some surgeons are willing to work out a payment plan to help make the costs more manageable.

The desicision to undergo revision rhinoplasty should not be taken lightly. In fact, some consider it to be the most complicated cosmetic surgery procedure there is. For this reason, it is important that you select a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Fodero to perform your surgery. Board certification assures you that your surgeon has had extensive training, passed rigorous examinations, and is up to date on new technology and techniques.

Northeastern Plastic Surgery understands your desire for a beautiful, youthful looking body and facial appearance. We use the latest plastic surgery techniques to perform a variety of surgical procedures. Dr. Fodero and the staff are very friendly, helpful, and available to answer any questions you may have about the procedures we offer. We strive to ensure that your experience with us is positive. Please contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.