General Anesthesia
Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects or modifies the results of a previous rhinoplasty. It is performed when a patient is unsatisfied with the appearance of their nose after their initial operation. On average, a revision rhinoplasty takes 3-4 hours to complete under general anesthesia. Dr. Freeman performs this facial plastic surgery using the most advanced and effective techniques to improve the patient’s nose appearance and breathing when necessary.
Open rhinoplasty involves making an incision across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils) to lift the skin and fully expose the nasal framework. This technique provides greater access to and visibility of the nose structures. However, it can leave a small scar on the columella after healing. Swelling after an open rhinoplasty versus a closed rhinoplasty takes longer to resolve. However, the improved 3-D vision is usually necessary in revision work since the nasal anatomy has been altered by the previous surgery.
Closed rhinoplasty is a less invasive technique with incisions inside the nostrils. The skin of the nose is also lifted. While visibility is more limited, this technique leaves no visible external scars and swelling after surgery resolves faster versus an open rhinoplasty. Dr. Freeman works through the narrow nostril openings to reshape the bone and cartilage. Closed rhinoplasty involves more intricate surgical maneuvers but requires a shorter recovery. This technique is rarely used for revision rhinoplasty due to altered anatomy of the nose from previous surgery.
Dr. Freeman will explain the surgical techniques, risks, and recovery involved with a revision rhinoplasty. He does not recommend computer imaging, which anyone can do, since many studies have shown that operative results do not match imaging results. Revision rhinoplasty requires an experienced surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty, so to evaluate your prospective surgeon look for these qualifications and evaluate the surgeons before and after photos. Clear communication between the patient and surgeon is vital for developing a treatment plan that will successfully improve the appearance and possibly the function of the nose through revision rhinoplasty.
On the first day after surgery, patients experience swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes. Pain medication is used to manage discomfort. Patients should keep their heads elevated on several pillows to minimize swelling. Ice packs may be applied, but not to the nose, to help reduce bruising and other symptoms. Strenuous activity should be avoided.
During the first week of recovery, swelling and bruising continue to improve. Pain and discomfort peak after a few days and then slowly disappear. Patients should avoid blowing their nose or performing any activities that put pressure on the internal structures. Bruising may spread down onto the cheeks. We recommend using cold compresses but not to the nose, to alleviate discomfort during this period. Patients should rest as much as possible and make sure to keep their head elevated as much as possible..
In the second to fourth weeks after a nose job, swelling diminishes significantly, and bruising fades. Patients may return to non-strenuous daily activities. The nose usually feels stiff due to internal swelling and splints. Patients also may experience some numbness. The nasal packing, cast and tape will be removed at day six. More tape will be applied to the nose, which will be removed in one week. Most patients return to work during this period. Other detailed instructions will be given to the patient during their preoperative teaching by Dr. Freeman’s staff.
Between weeks four and eight, the swelling continues to go down, and the nose regains normal sensation. Patients must avoid sun exposure to protect delicate tissues. They can return to all normal activities but should not engage in contact sports or strenuous exercise that may cause nose trauma. The final results of this cosmetic procedure are visible after 6-12 months of recovery, most patients feel good about their appearance typically after six weeks to three months..
Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. While most patients are satisfied with their initial surgery results, some people may be eligible for a correction if they are unhappy with the look or function of their noses.
Potential candidates for revision rhinoplasty include:
Patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose after the initial surgery. This can include concerns about the size, shape, symmetry, or proportions.
Patients with post-rhinoplasty complications, such as pollybeak deformity, hanging columella, saddle nose deformity, or other serious issues.
Patients who experience trauma or injury to the nose after the initial rhinoplasty that changes the appearance or function of the nose.
Patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose after the initial surgery. This can include concerns about the size, shape, symmetry, or proportions.
Patients with post-rhinoplasty complications, such as pollybeak deformity, hanging columella, saddle nose deformity, or other serious issues.
Patients who experience trauma or injury to the nose after the initial rhinoplasty that changes the appearance or function of the nose.
Rhinoplasty patients can receive many benefits from corrective nasal surgery. Depending on the person’s needs and concerns, it may be performed as a cosmetic, perhaps with a functional component. The main advantages of rhinoplasty revision include the following:
Revision rhinoplasty cost in Charlotte ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. The price varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the revision, the surgeon’s credentials, and the geographic location of the practice. Simple revisions that only involve adjusting or refining certain areas of the nose tend to be on the lower end of the price range. More complex corrections that require grafting or structural changes to the nose anatomy are typically more expensive.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Freeman considers the specific changes the patient wants to make and provides a customized quote. He explains in detail what the price includes and offers many financing options to make payments more convenient.
