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Revision Rhinoplasty

Unfortunately, an initial rhinoplasty procedure does not always produce the results that the patient desires. Since the nose is a central feature of the face, it can make any type of flaw, even slight asymmetry or irregularities, noticeable to others. When imperfections remain or develop after rhinoplasty, patients can choose to undergo revision rhinoplasty to improve the appearance.

Revision rhinoplasty may be performed for a number of reasons. Variability in healing, patient expectations, miscommunication between the patient and surgeon, or patient failure to follow post-operative instructions may cause problems with outcomes from a primary rhinoplasty.

The Experience of the Surgeon

Rhinoplasty is one of the most difficult plastic surgery procedures to perform. The procedure is highly complex; surgeons must have a good understanding of the principles of nasal analysis, including the concepts of ideal facial height and width in relation to the nose, as well as the optimal shape and angle of nasal landmarks. This allows the surgeon to develop a surgical plan that improves the naso-facial relationship and achieves a better aesthetic.

Bay Area Plastic Surgeon John R. Griffin is board-certified in plastic surgery and understands the important role that nasal analysis plays in the outcome of any rhinoplasty procedure. He has undergone extensive training in nasal assessment and surgical techniques. He has published papers on aesthetic rhinoplasty, nasal reconstruction, and rhinophyma. His considerable comprehension of nasal anatomy, fine attention to detail, and skilled hand make him qualified to perform both primary rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty surgery. Choosing an experienced surgeon such as Dr. Griffin is an important consideration.

Miscommunication Between the Surgeon and Patient

Another common reason for revision rhinoplasty is problems with communication between the patient and surgeon. During the consultation process, patients should discuss what it is that they like and dislike about their nose. The surgeon can then recommend a potential course of treatment and explain how the nasal features can be changed. Dr. Griffin will use the Vectra 3D imaging system to alter the appearance of the nose so the patient can view potential plans. The use of this technology, combined with Dr. Griffin’s surgical skill, can help to reduce the patient’s need for revision rhinoplasty.

Uncontrolled Variability in Healing

Each patient is unique, as is his or her own healing response. Following rhinoplasty, there are certain factors that are beyond the surgeon and patient’s control. The manner in which the skin heals over the cartilage and bone, the development of scar tissue, and scar contracture are factors that can affect the final results of rhinoplasty. Scar tissue and contracture can result in unwanted pinching, collapse, functional problems, asymmetries, cartilage buckling, and skin irregularities.

The risk of scar tissue formation and contracture can be reduced if the patient follows Dr. Griffin post-operative care instructions. However, even when proper precautions are taken, unfavorable healing is still possible.

The Patient Fails to Follow Post-operative Instructions

Dr. Griffin will provide patients with healing aids and post-operative instructions. These are not intended to make the patient’s life more difficult; rather, they are aimed at reducing the risk of complications and improving surgical outcomes. After surgery, patients should:

Wear the nasal splint until Dr. Griffin removes it; this protects the nose from injury, helps the nose hold its new shape, and reduces swelling and the potential for scar tissue formation
Compress the nasal skin against the underlying tissue with medical tape; this can reduce swelling and the potential for scar tissue formation
Avoid engaging in any activity that raises this heart rate; this keeps swelling at a minimum
Keep the head elevated to encourage blood flow and healing
Rest