Rhinoplasty revision, also known as surgical correction or repair of a previous rhinoplasty (nose job), is performed when the result created by the first surgery has failed to meet expectations.
It is done for patients unhappy with the previous surgery and wants to improve its results.
It is essential to understand the rhinoplasty recovery time (sometimes up to 6 months) and take proper care to avoid future complications.
Reasons to opt for Rhinoplasty Revision
According to Statista, as of 2019, the United States had the most significant number of cosmetic procedures with over 3.9 million procedures.
Several reasons can lead someone to consider revision rhinoplasty.
The most common ones, among others, include:
– Unsatisfactory results from the initial surgery
– Damage or injury as a result of the first surgery
– Inappropriate result for age or body type
– Cosmetic corrections that can be executed more effectively
How is Revision Surgery Done?
The revision rhinoplasty surgery is the same as the primary one, with minor changes.
However, it can be more complex if more than one corrective process is carried out or if the first surgery has caused some deformities on the nose.
The overall aim of revision rhinoplasty is to improve both form and aesthetics of a previously operated nose.
Necessary Conditions for the Surgery to Be Successful
For the results from a revision rhinoplasty to be as expected, it is necessary that:
– The physician has expertise in executing rhinoplasty procedures and should have performed them frequently
– There are no deformities in the area that will cause complications during the surgery
– The patient is in good physical condition and has realistic expectations about the outcome of the revision rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty can be performed using either an open approach or endonasal technique.
What Happens During the Surgery?
The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
In the open approach, incisions are made at the columella and on the nasal dorsum to allow access to both sides of the nose where corrections have been needed. The other forms of surgery will involve fewer incisions.
The excess cartilage or bone that needs to be removed is carefully measured beforehand so that it is much less likely to damage the nasal structure during the surgery.
At the end of the surgery, which can take about an hour or two, absorbable sutures are inserted into the deep tissues of the nose and will dissolve on their own in a few months. The skin incisions are stitched with sutures that do not dissolve.
The patient will stay at the surgery center for about six hours before their transfer home or to the hotel if staying overnight.
What Happens During Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery?
The nose and eyes should be carefully supported since they can swell up after the surgery. Swelling, pain, and bruising (most common in black patients) may occur days after surgery. These symptoms should decrease within a week.
The doctor will prescribe painkillers and antibiotics if necessary.
The doctor will also provide specific instructions for the patient to follow after the surgery, including:
– Avoiding nose blowing and sneezing during recovery time
– Not wearing glasses or sunglasses while sleeping to prevent pressure on the nose
– Reducing sun exposure to the face
– Not participating in strenuous activities for six weeks
– Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine during the recovery period
– Wearing a noninvasive splint at night to gently push the nose upwards after two weeks of surgery
Patients can usually go back to work within two weeks after the rhinoplasty recovery period.
How Long Does Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery Take?
The recovery time for a revision rhinoplasty is around 3-4 weeks, give or take, depending on the patient’s healing process.
Excessive swelling is usually gone after 1-2 weeks following surgery, but it can remain visible under the eyes and on the upper lip.
How Long Will It Take Before Results from Revision Rhinoplasty Are Visible?
The results from a revision rhinoplasty will become visible in a few months, but the final corrections and aesthetics will be achieved after 1-2 years.
It is expected that following revision surgery; patients do not have the same appearance as they did before their previous rhinoplasty procedure. The new nose will be more refined and natural-looking, but it will take time for the swelling to go down and tissues to relax.
Final Thoughts on Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery
It’s vital to remember that every patient is different, and the recovery time can vary according to each person.
However, revision rhinoplasty provides an excellent opportunity to achieve a nose that perfectly fits the patient’s bone structure and facial features. Once all surgeries are completed, minimal touch-ups may be needed.