Revision Rhinoplasty

When the first rhinoplasty doesn’t turn out the way you wanted, revision rhinoplasty is often needed to fix the results. This is where a gifted, experienced facial plastic surgeon can make all the difference.

About revision rhinoplasty

Why would someone get rhinoplasty twice? Because the results from the first surgery were disappointing — or worse, they caused new problems, whether aesthetic or functional. It may be that the first surgery never quite healed correctly. Maybe scar tissue developed and created new issues, or an injury damaged the original outcome. Whatever the reason may be, revision rhinoplasty is a fairly common procedure. At Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Blake Raggio and Dr. Thomas Cawthon expertly perform this complex surgery, leaving patients with beautifully improved results.

The importance of choosing a facial specialist

Revision rhinoplasty should only be performed by a plastic surgeon who is highly trained and experienced in face procedures. This is because revision rhinoplasty involves working around scar tissue, often dealing with less cartilage, frequently having to rebuild structural support, and having to re-use previously-made incisions — all while making the patient feel emotionally comfortable and cared for. Because of all this, patient education and strong communication between doctor and patient is crucial. Dr. Raggio or Dr. Cawthon will assess the results of your first rhinoplasty, and will discuss your specific areas of concern and personal goals for the procedure.

Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Revision rhinoplasty surgical details

Due to its complex nature, revision rhinoplasty is most commonly performed using the open technique, wherein an incision is made in the columella. This method allows better access to the nasal tissue and nasal cartilage.

However, every case is different, and sometimes the surgery can be done with the closed technique, where the incisions are all made within the nostrils. During your consultation, you will be informed on which technique will be used.

Revision rhinoplasty sometimes also involves the addition of cartilage grafts, which help with long-term support of the nose. These grafts are taken from inside the nose or, in some cases, the ear or rib.

Recovery and results

Recovery from revision rhinoplasty typically lasts between 1 and 2 weeks, and you may need to wear a splint for a week or so. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, soreness, and a feeling of congestion. It’s important to keep your head elevated above your heart as much as possible, including during sleep. Strenuous activities (including bending and lifting) should be avoided during recovery. While early results will be noticeable as soon as the splint is removed, it may take months for the swelling to completely subside. Final results will be visible anywhere from 12 to 18 months after surgery.

Why choose ALPRS for revision rhinoplasty?

Dr. Blake Raggio and Dr. Thomas Cawthorn are experts in the field of facial plastic surgery. Dr. Raggio is the only fellowship-trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon in the region, and has extensive training. Dr. Cawthon is also an Otolaryngologist with decades of experience. When you choose to work with Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, you’re choosing extraordinary care and service from every touchpoint — before, during, and after surgery — to get results that are natural-looking, attractive, and durable.

Revision Rhinoplasty

About revision rhinoplasty

The importance of choosing a facial specialist

Revision rhinoplasty surgical details

Recovery and results

Why choose ALPRS for revision rhinoplasty?

Blake Raggio

Facial Plastic Surgeon

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