Revision rhinoplasty is a surgery used to correct a previous nose surgery. There are several reasons why you might consider revision rhinoplasty. The first surgery may not have produced satisfactory results if too much or not enough tissue had been removed.
The initial surgical results might have been satisfactory, but you may suffer an injury that damages your nasal structures. Changes with age can also sometimes alter your facial structure, so you are no longer satisfied with the result. Whatever the reason, there are several factors to consider that help you determine if a revision rhinoplasty is worth getting.
Only you can decide whether a revision rhinoplasty is worth getting. As you are considering the surgery, it is important to include certain factors in your decision-making. The following nine factors often significantly affect your satisfaction with the results.
You should define clearly why you are considering a revision rhinoplasty. It might be for aesthetic reasons, difficulty breathing, or dissatisfaction with a previous surgery. Defining your reason can help determine if undergoing revision rhinoplasty is worth the time and effort.
Revision rhinoplasty is typically more complex than the initial surgery. You want a surgeon who has the expertise and advanced skills to complete a revision rhinoplasty successfully. The surgery is more complex because the area is small, and the first surgery removed some tissue and bone structure, leaving the second surgeon with fewer options.
You should have realistic and clear expectations about what the surgery can produce. Revision rhinoplasty can improve the appearance and function but your surgeon may be limited by the existing bone structure and tissue that was left by the previous surgery.
Revision surgeries can be more expensive than initial rhinoplasty because they are more complex. However, if poor healing impairs your breathing and has triggered chronic sinus infections, your insurance company may help cover some of the cost. You must work with your insurance company and get prior authorization to be considered for insurance coverage.
Recovery after a revision rhinoplasty is often longer than the first surgery. The swelling and healing can take longer, and the final results may take longer to be visible.
Timing of a revision rhinoplasty is crucial. You must wait until your nose is fully healed from the first surgery, which typically takes one year. If a revision is done earlier, the results will be dissatisfactory because your body’s healing process is being disrupted.
Be aware of the potential risks that are associated with all surgeries, including infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia. There’s also a risk that you will be dissatisfied with the outcome of the second surgery.
You must ensure you are emotionally prepared for another surgical process and recovery period. Psychological resilience is important in handling the stresses that are associated with revision surgery.
You must be in good physical health to undergo another surgery. Certain conditions like Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure must be fully managed before revision rhinoplasty.
The answer to the question of whether it is worth it to get a revision rhinoplasty is a decision that only you can make. You must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of a second surgical procedure and determine if the risks are worth the benefits.
We encourage you to call our office today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Narasimhan. He and his medical team will answer your questions about surgery and offer their expert recommendations so you have the necessary information to help you decide if a second surgery is worth your time and effort.