Revision Rhinoplasty in Seattle Washington

The nose is one of the most complex parts of the face due to its three-dimensional nature. It is framed on the outside by the mouth, cheeks, forehead, and eyes and can have a significant impact on the appearance and balance of the rest of the face. In addition, the nose has a complex internal structure that is responsible for breathing, warming and moistening the air we breathe in, our sense of smell, and allowing sinus aeration, among other things.

When approaching the nose surgically, patients and physicians alike are often unaware of its complexity. Any surgical approach to the nose that does not take into account all of the factors mentioned above increases the risk of postoperative nasal problems. Excessive reduction of a large nose can result in inability to breathe through it, a nose that does not fit the face, and a “surgical” appearance.

Any patient considering rhinoplasty or septoplasty surgery should strongly consider choosing a surgeon like Dr. William Portuese or Dr. Joseph Shvidler whose training and experience demonstrate a thorough understanding of these principles, and whose practice regularly manages surgical and non-surgical nasal problems.

Revision rhinoplasty surgery is more difficult than traditional rhinoplasty surgery because the presence of scar tissue and, in some cases, a lack of cartilaginous support requires the surgeon to have extensive experience dealing with problems that may arise as a result of previous surgery. Because cartilage was removed during the initial rhinoplasty, cartilage from behind the ear is frequently required to restore the nasal form. The ear incision is well hidden, and the shape and function of the ear remain unchanged.

Although revision rhinoplasty has some unique considerations, it is a highly rewarding procedure. The surgery time for a revision rhinoplasty is typically longer, lasting about 5 hours. The mucus membranes return to normal size within 1-2 weeks of surgery, but the results continue to evolve over the course of a year, though they are noticeably better post-operatively.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Revision Rhinoplasty?

A good candidate for a revision rhinoplasty is someone who has realistic expectations about what we can accomplish. There are things we can accomplish, there are things we cannot accomplish. For example, if there’s a small indentation in the upper lateral cartilages, and there’s plenty of cartilage left on the inside of the nose, we can harvest a small piece of cartilage and put a little spreader graft in that area to build that little dent or that depression up.

Another good example would be somebody who maybe has a residual bump on the bridge of their nose, and we can file that down, or somebody who has, their nose is too scooped out, too much cartilage has been taken away, we can come back in and add an additional cartilage graft in that area, usually taken from the inside of the nose. But if there’s been a cartilage-depleted nose from prior surgery, then we may have to use a piece of ear cartilage to reconstruct the nose.

What Are the Signs of Needing Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery?

There are a few signs that you may require revision rhinoplasty surgery. If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your nose, revision surgery may be an option for you. Furthermore, if you have had complications from previous nose jobs, such as difficulty breathing or persistent pain, revision rhinoplasty may be required to correct these issues.

How long should I wait after my initial rhinoplasty before having a revision surgery?

There is no set timeframe for having revision rhinoplasty surgery after a previous rhinoplasty procedure. If people are dissatisfied with the results of their initial nose job, they may elect to have revision surgery right away. However, it is more common to wait at least a year after the initial surgery for swelling and bruising to go away before undergoing revision surgery. Your doctor at The Seattle Rhinoplasty Center can guide you through the process and make recommendations based on your specific circumstances.

How Long Will It Take To See My Revision Rhinoplasty Results?

The results of revision rhinoplasty surgery will not be visible right away. As swelling and bruising subside, the final results may take up to a year to become apparent. However, as the healing process progresses, you should notice an improvement in the appearance of your nose soon after surgery. Our team will set up follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure you get the results you want.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Revision Rhinoplasty?

The recovery period following revision rhinoplasty is similar to that of a primary nose job. Expect some swelling and bruising around your eyes, which should go away in two weeks. To allow your body to heal properly, you should also get enough rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first few weeks after surgery. Most people take some time off from work and social activities to recover and then return to their regular routine after receiving clearance from their doctor at The Seattle Rhinoplasty Center in downtown Seattle Washington.

Are there any risks associated with revision rhinoplasty surgery?

Any medical procedure, including revision rhinoplasty, carries risks. However, when revision surgery is performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon, these risks are usually minimal. Infection, bleeding, and scarring are some of the potential risks and complications of revision rhinoplasty.