Thankfully, most often, primary rhinoplasty surgery, or a "nose job," is successfully performed and goes exactly as planned. But sometimes, this procedure can result in unexpected outcomes that are not in line with your original aesthetic goal. This is sometimes due to the inexperience of the surgeon, but occasionally, even with a skilled, board-certified surgeon, the results may not be optimal. The structures within the nose are delicate and can be difficult to modify. This can understandably be a frustrating situation, but in many cases, it can be addressed with revision rhinoplasty in the right hands. If you are considering a revision, understanding the difference between primary and revision rhinoplasty is essential. While a primary rhinoplasty and a revision rhinoplasty have the same goals and use similar methods, they are distinctly different.
What is Primary Rhinoplasty?
Primary rhinoplasty is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure designed to contour, reshape, and enhance the appearance of the nose while not sacrificing function. This procedure is usually requested by patients who want to improve the nose's appearance and address aesthetic concerns such as a large or crooked nose, a prominent bump, or a bulbous tip. It can help achieve a more balanced and attractive facial profile and should be performed with the goal of harmony. In addition, it can also serve a functional purpose at the same time and is often used to correct structural abnormalities within the nose that prevent proper breathing, such as a deviated septum or valve collapse. By improving the nasal airway, rhinoplasty can significantly enhance breathing and alleviate breathing difficulties. Depending on your needs, multiple different techniques are available, and your surgeon can determine which one will best suit you and your goals.
What is Revision Rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty, sometimes called secondary rhinoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure meant to address or improve the unsatisfactory results of a previous surgery. In some cases, patients may not achieve their desired results after the first surgery or may experience complications that need to be addressed. Revision rhinoplasty is more complex and challenging than primary rhinoplasty due to altered anatomy from the previous surgery. In primary rhinoplasty, tissue planes are easily dissected as they have not previously been violated by surgery. However, in revision rhinoplasty, scar tissue and changes made during the initial surgery can make it more difficult to achieve the desired results, as the tissue planes can be scarred or absent, making dissection more difficult. Often, the underlying structural aspects of the bone or cartilage of the nose are deficient, requiring grafting to restore structure to the nose. The techniques for revision rhinoplasty are unique, challenging, and require special training. For these reasons, it is essential to choose an experienced and skilled Plastic Surgeon who specializes in revision rhinoplasty and frequently performs this procedure.
When is a Revision Rhinoplasty necessary?
Unsatisfactory results, complications from previous surgery, and changes in the nasal structure over time may make a revision rhinoplasty necessary. Sometimes, a patient may be unhappy with the aesthetic outcome of their initial procedure and may seek revision rhinoplasty to achieve their desired appearance. This could involve improving symmetry, refining the nasal tip, correcting a hump, or addressing other cosmetic issues that were not adequately resolved in the first surgery or occurred secondary to the first surgery.
Some patients may experience breathing problems or nasal obstruction following their primary rhinoplasty. This could be due to changes made during the first surgery that negatively affected the nasal airflow. A revision can sometimes improve the functionality of the nose and address any breathing issues. In some cases, complications such as infection, excessive scarring, implant displacement, or graft-related problems may arise after the primary surgery. Revision rhinoplasty can often be performed to correct these issues and restore the nose's natural appearance and function.
Another cause for revision rhinoplasty is natural aging. Though in primary rhinoplasty, the surgery should be performed with longevity in mind, over time, the effects of aging can alter the nasal structure, leading to changes in the appearance of the nose. A secondary procedure can help address these changes and maintain the desired aesthetics. In rare cases, during the primary rhinoplasty, too much cartilage or bone may have been removed, leading to a collapsed or pinched appearance. Revision rhinoplasty can help rebuild and support the nasal framework to achieve a more natural, balanced look. No matter what your reason for considering a revision, it's important to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable plastic surgeon who is qualified to perform this procedure.
Revision Rhinoplasty By Dr. Claire Melancon
Almost half of the rhinoplasties Dr. Melancon performs are revision rhinoplasties, making up a large percentage of her practice. Dr. Melancon received specific training in revision rhinoplasties in Houston, TX, under the tutelage of Dr. Russell Kridel, a leading revision rhinoplasty expert worldwide. Similarly, she developed a specific passion for these cases and has dedicated countless hours to fine-tuning the techniques required to obtain beautiful results in these challenging cases.
See The Results You Were Waiting For
Revision rhinoplasties are unique, challenging cases that can also be some of the most rewarding. Many patients come to our office frustrated, depressed, or disappointed by their prior results. There are very few things more rewarding than giving these patients a nose that they feel is balanced, aesthetic, and natural. Everyone has different end goals and different starting points. If you are considering a revision, it's important to understand the risks and benefits of revision, realistic goals, and what can and cannot be achieved with the current anatomy of your nose. Our goal is to assist you in achieving your aesthetic goals in a way that is lasting, balanced, and safe. Your journey starts here at Audubon Facial Plastic Surgery with a conversation. Let's start your journey today.
