Revision Rhinoplasty
Up to 20% of rhinoplasties result in follow-up revision rhinoplasty.
Have you undergone rhinoplasty and wish to improve the appearance of your nose or breathing? Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary or tertiary rhinoplasty, is the surgical procedure to repair cosmetic or functional problems after a previous nose surgery. Since the previous surgery may have changed the normal anatomy, it is a complicated procedure that requires a surgeon with specific training. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, to improve breathing, or both, Dr. Sturm can customize a procedure that meets your needs.
RhinoplastyBefore & After Photos
Who can benefit from revision rhinoplasty?
Those who can benefit from revision nose surgery are in good health and have waited at least one year after their initial surgery to consider revision. Waiting one year will ensure that the swelling from your previous surgery has resolved so that Dr. Sturm will be able to properly assess your nose to have the best long-term results. Exceptions are made in some severe cases. Since every patient and procedure is unique, candidacy for revision is best determined during a consultation with Dr. Sturm.
Cosmetic Refinements
Patients may be unsatisfied with the cosmetic results of their first procedure. They often want further improvement to the tip of the nose, the width of the bridge, or the overall nasal shape. Dr. Sturm considers your nasal anatomy, the procedural process of your first surgery, and your desired goals to customize your revision.
Will I have improved breathing?
You may have breathing difficulties that were not sufficiently corrected during your first rhinoplasty, or you may have developed new problems as a result. A septoplasty, reduction of inferior turbinates, or repair of the internal nasal valves can make the necessary improvements so you can breathe normally and easily.
Can I get a more feminine or masculine nose?
If your nose does not look as feminine or masculine as you would like, Dr. Sturm can improve your nasal contour. This may involve reducing or increasing the size of the nose, or by refining the contours for a softer or more symmetrical appearance.
Improved Nasal Contour and Facial Harmony
Some patients seek revision rhinoplasty due to irregularities or bumps on the nose. Revision rhinoplasty can improve the contour and shape of the nose. A full facial evaluation by Dr. Sturm can help determine the optimal shape and contour for your face. The time of surgery and the results you can expect will depend on many factors that will be evaluated during your consultation.
What is recovery like?
Recovery from revision rhinoplasty will be similar to the recovery from your first procedure. Your nose will be protected by a splint for the first five days, and it will be taped for another five days to reduce swelling. No packing will be used, but we will place non-stick gauze for one night only. Bruising and swelling may appear around the eyes and can last about a week. Most of the swelling in the nose goes down over three months, although it takes a year or even two in some cases for all of the swelling to subside. Most patients return to work after the initial 10-day recovery period.
Will I have scars?
Dr. Sturm can use the same incision location from the previous surgery, or she may be able to perform a closed rhinoplasty with no incisions or scars. Any scarring will be inconspicuous and will fade with time.
Is a revision rhinoplasty more painful?
General anesthesia will be used during surgery. Any pain after surgery is mild and can be easily controlled with pain medication that Dr. Sturm will prescribe.
What is the cost of revision rhinoplasty?
The cost of revision surgery will depend on several factors, including the extent of the procedure and whether it is combined with other procedures. Typically, your revision surgery will cost more than your initial surgery. After an assessment of your anatomy and goals for the procedure, Dr. Sturm can provide you with an accurate cost estimate.
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