Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty is a procedure designed to address and correct complications or dissatisfaction with a previous nose surgery. In cases where patients have undergone rhinoplasty performed by another surgeon and are experiencing aesthetic problems with the results, Dr. Eric Okamoto can perform revision rhinoplasty (also known as secondary rhinoplasty) to produce a more satisfactory outcome. Dr. Okamoto is not only a board-certified plastic surgeon, but also a board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat surgeon). He is extensively trained and experienced with rhinoplasty procedures and has helped many individuals enhance the cosmetic attributes of their nose with successful results. Dr. Okamoto can meet with you for an initial consultation to evaluate your concerns and explain how revision rhinoplasty may be the ideal procedure for your needs.

Who Is a Candidate for Revision Rhinoplasty?

Candidates for revision rhinoplasty are typically those who experience:

  • Dissatisfaction with the outcome of the primary rhinoplasty
  • Complications that have arisen from the initial rhinoplasty
  • Cosmetic issues that have been worsened by the previous nose surgery
  • Cosmetic issues that were not improved by the first rhinoplasty

If you are considering revision rhinoplasty, please be aware that patients are typically advised to wait at least one year after the primary rhinoplasty so that swelling has had ample time to diminish. During your initial consultation with Dr. Okamoto, he will perform a comprehensive examination of the nasal area and talk with you about your goals. If you are an ideal candidate for revision rhinoplasty, Dr. Okamoto can develop a customized treatment plan designed to deliver the best possible results.

How Is the Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure Performed?

Revision rhinoplasty can typically be performed on an outpatient basis utilizing general anesthesia. Since procedures are completely customized for each patient based on their reasons to undergo the treatment and their unique physical anatomy, no two revision rhinoplasty operations are exactly the same. The technique utilized will ultimately be determined based on your individual needs and goals. In many cases, revision rhinoplasty can be performed using the incisions placed in the primary rhinoplasty, which helps to avoid additional scarring in the nasal area. With that in mind, the incisions for any rhinoplasty procedure are typically created in discreet areas, so residual scarring in the nasal region is often virtually unnoticeable.
Revision rhinoplasty is a highly complex surgery, and choosing the best rhinoplasty surgeon for your needs is very important. With his education, training, credentials, and history performing nose surgery procedures, Dr. Okamoto is capable of delivering excellent results.

What Is Recovery from Revision Rhinoplasty Like?

The recovery process from revision rhinoplasty should be very much like recovery from a primary rhinoplasty. Patients can expect swelling and bruising in the nasal area for several days following surgery. Medication can be prescribed to control any pain or discomfort during this time. While a large degree of swelling should fade during the initial recovery period, it’s important to note that it may be several months before the majority of the swelling completely dissipates. Even so, this is often not very noticeable after the first few weeks, and the final results should be visible not long after the procedure. Most patients are able to resume normal day-to-day activities after approximately one week; however, this is dependent on each patient’s unique rate of healing.

During the first few months after the revision rhinoplasty surgery, you will need to take steps to ensure the nose is adequately protected from harm and that the healing process continues as safely and effectively as possible. We advise patients to avoid strenuous exercise or other physically demanding activities for several weeks. It is also recommended that you avoid any type of activity that increases the risk of facial impact for at least six weeks following the revision rhinoplasty procedure. Dr. Okamoto will provide detailed post-operative instructions with guidelines that can help you achieve a smooth healing process.
If you would like more information on revision rhinoplasty, we encourage you to contact our practice today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, or to assist you with scheduling a consultation here at our practice.