What is revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty, also referred to as secondary or tertiary rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to repair problems of aesthetics and/or function resulting from a prior rhinoplasty surgery.

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty?
If you are a physically healthy man or woman who has realistic expectations and are looking to improve the appearance and/or function of your nose after a prior rhinoplasty procedure, you may be a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty.

What happens during a consultation for revision rhinoplasty?
During a consultation for revision rhinoplasty, the surgeon will discuss your goals and the options available to you through surgery. The doctor will examine the structure of your nose and face and take a thorough medical history. All aspects of the procedure, including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the risks and the costs, will be explained.

Where is the revision rhinoplasty procedure performed?
Revision rhinoplasty procedures may take place in a surgeon's office-based facility, an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.

What is the anesthesia that's used for revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty is often performed with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may also be used.

How is revision rhinoplasty performed?
Once anesthesia is administered, incisions are made to separate the skin of the nose from the underlying bone and cartilage. Incisions may be made solely on the inside of the nose (closed rhinoplasty) or there may be an additional small incision made on the underside of the nose between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty). With the incisions made, the bone and cartilage are sculpted to the desired shape. Depending upon the particular case, cartilage may be repositioned or missing structures may be replaced. Once the new shape is achieved, the skin is redraped over the new framework and stitches are used to close the incisions.

How long is the surgical time for revision rhinoplasty?
On average, revision rhinoplasty takes two or more hours to complete.

Where are the incisions made for revision rhinoplasty?
Incisions may be made only on the inside of the nose, which is referred to as closed rhinoplasty, or there may be an additional small incision made between the nostrils on the underside of the nose which is known as open rhinoplasty.

Does revision rhinoplasty result in scars?
When the procedure is performed as closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are confined to the inside of the nose and result in no visible scarring. For open rhinoplasty procedures, there will be a small scar which is well-concealed as it is placed between the nostrils on the underside of the nose.

Is revision rhinoplasty a painful procedure?
There is generally less pain associated with revision rhinoplasty procedures than with primary rhinoplasty procedure. If necessary, pain medication can be prescribed to help control any discomfort that patients experience.

Will I be able to drive myself home after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your revision rhinoplasty procedure.

Will I need someone to help me out at home after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
It can be very helpful to arrange for someone to stay with you during the first night or two after your revision rhinoplasty procedure.

What is the recovery like after revision rhinoplasty?
Compared to primary rhinoplasty procedures, there tends to be less pain, bruising and swelling after revision rhinoplasty procedures. Bruising typically fades within about ten days while the swelling an take several months before fully fading. Splints and stitches are typically removed within six to seven days after surgery.

When will I be able to return to work after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
Most patients find that they can return to work in about a week after revision rhinoplasty.

When will I be able to exercise after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
Strenuous activities and exercise should be postponed for about two to three weeks after the revision rhinoplasty procedure. In addition, you will need to avoid activities which can injure the nose and sunburn for about eight weeks.

When will the stitches be removed after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
Stitches are usually removed in about six to seven days after the revision rhinoplasty procedure.

Are there any risks or complications that can occur with revision rhinoplasty?
As with all types of surgery there are potential complications that can occur with revision rhinoplasty and these may include adverse anesthesia reactions, excessive scarring, prolonged swelling, pulling of the nose to one side, small burst blood vessels, and the need for additional surgery.

Does insurance cover the cost of revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty procedures performed for cosmetic purposes alone are usually not covered by insurance, though some coverage may be available if your procedure is intended to correct a breathing problem or deformity.

Can I finance my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
You may be able to obtain financing for your revision rhinoplasty procedure as financing is available for many plastic surgery procedure.

What should I look for in a surgeon to perform my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
The surgeon you select to perform your revision rhinoplasty procedure should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) as this ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can verify ABPS certification by visiting the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org . You should also find out if the surgeon has privileges to perform surgery in an accredited hospital and, if so, which hospitals, how many revision rhinoplasty procedures the surgeon has performed, and if the surgical facility is accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization.

How can I find a qualified cosmetic surgeon for my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
A good place to start is the website of the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS), www.plasticsurgery.org , in order to find a surgeon who is board certified by the ABPS.

What does board certified mean?
Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is an indication that a surgeon has met certain requirements, including graduation from an accredited medical school, completion of a combination of at least five years of general surgery and plastic surgery residency training, and passing of comprehensive oral and written exams.