Childhood accident at age 3. Can I get a revision as an adult? (photos)

Question

Hey! When I was 3, I had a childhood accident where my nose was partially severed from my face. While the reattachment surgery gave me PTSD for life, that’s largely irrelevant. They did a fantastic job, but the asymmetry is starting to bother me. I want to look as much like my original nose as possible, which is the side with the wider nostril and the bigger nose tip. What are my options?

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Based on your photographs, you appear to have relatively thin nasal skin, and this may lead to irregularities after any rhinoplastic surgery. I can see at the base view of your nose, that your nasal tip appears to point to the left side, and this is associated with nostril asymmetry. I do believe that additional surgery is possible, however, you should have a discussion with a rhinoplasty specialist to ensure that goals are achievable. We have found the computer Imaging is a helpful tool for establishing goals of rhinoplasty surgery. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks Thanks CJsGreatEscape for your question! for your question! Yes, In order to correct the asymmetry brought on by your childhood injury, you might definitely consider revision rhinoplasty as an adult. People who have had nasal injuries, particularly when they were young, frequently need revision surgery later in life to improve the outcomes of earlier surgeries or to address any alterations brought on by growing.
Depending on the exact source of the asymmetry, revision rhinoplasty might fix it in a number of methods. The following are some typical methods:   
Cartilage Grafting: Cartilage grafts can be used to increase the amount of cartilage and improve symmetry if one side of the nose lacks it. The cartilage can be extracted from the ear, the rib, or the nasal septum, which is the wall that separates the nostrils.   
Osteotomies: By carefully reshaping the nasal bones, the surgeon can enhance symmetry and alter the nose's skeletal structure. This is frequently used to straighten an uneven nasal bridge or crooked nose.   
Suturing Techniques: The nasal tip and nostrils can be refined and given a more symmetrical look by using sutures to relocate and restructure the nose's natural cartilage.   
Soft Tissue Manipulation: Variations in the soft tissues of the nose can occasionally result in asymmetry. In order to achieve a more balanced look, the surgeon might gently remove or rearrange soft tissue.   
Combined strategies: To get the intended outcome, a mixture of these strategies is sometimes employed.
Selecting a highly skilled surgeon with expertise in revision rhinoplasty is crucial. Because of scar tissue and changed nasal anatomy, these surgeries are sometimes more complicated than initial rhinoplasty.
As a triple Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, I specialize in revision rhinoplasty. This complex procedure requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of facial and nasal anatomy. I am committed to correcting imperfections and restoring both the form and function of the nose. My philospphy is to listen carefully to the goals and desirers of my patients with a focus on patient satisfaction, I utilize advanced techniques to achieve natural-looking and long-lasting results.
Hope this was helpful!
Best wishes,
Dr Ali Sajjadian

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

I would go speak with a plastic surgeon in person. I would also try to obtain as much information about the initial injury as possible. The previous injury is very important for blood supply concerns.  I would go see an American Board of Plastic Surgery certified surgeon with experience in rhinoplasty/revision rhinoplasty. You can look up if your surgeon is American Board of Plastic Surgery certified by Googling "is my plastic surgeon certified?".

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, It is better for you to consult with your facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on examination.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, you are a great candidate for a rhinoplasty to help improve your nostril symmetry and tip contour as well as potentially other issues.  With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Childhood accident at age 3. Can I get a revision as an adult? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Childhood accident at age 3. Can I get a revision as an adult? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.