Radix too high as a result of rhinoplasty. Will revision surgery change shape of eye?

Question

I had rhinoplasty about 7 months ago. Due to a miscommunication, the graft used by my doctor was too large and made my radix area too high. There used to be a noticeable dip that separated my forehead from the base of my nose, but now they look connected. I want to replace the graft with a smaller one. However, I am concerned that this will change the shape of my eyes and cause them to become farther apart, since the skin that was stretched out will now go back down. Is this likely to happen?

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear fowler04,The radix graft can be thinned out, this may even be possible under local anesthetic in the officeIt should not change the shape of your eyes or the distance between themAlso, the skin would re-shrink wrap around the new nose, there will not be extra skin leftoverIt would be best to go in for an exam (either your original surgeon, or a rhinoplasty specialist) to see what your best options would beBest,Nima Shemirani

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

I should be possible to modify the size of your radix graft. Radix grafts won't physically change the distance between your eyes (the eye location is based on the underlying bony eye sockets) but having a higher radix can create the visual effect that the eyes are closer together. A modest change in bridge height likely wouldn't cause a large change in this effect though.You should check in with your surgery to get a better idea of your options. In the meantime you can read more about radix grafting at my web reference link below.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A cartilaginous radix graft can be removed and a smaller one placed.  This will not change the shape of the eyes. It's important to seek out  an experienced revision rhinoplasty surgeon for best results.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Was an implant used or cartilage grafting?  In many cases, the outstretched skin can go down but without seeing how large the graft is and how much smaller you are 
trying to go, it's hard to definitively say what the result will be.  Please consult with a board certified specialist in revision rhinoplasty who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.  3-dimensional computer imaging can help mitigate any miscommunication with your surgeon.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Changing the size of of the radix will not actually change the shape of the eye but it may change the appearance of the nasal orbital complex . Therefore I need to see the present projection of the radix and what change you want to make.

David Alessi, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Your eyes will stay the same.  The position of your eyes depends largely on the boney socket and ligamentous attachments.  These won't change if the radix skin is stretched.  Seek out a board-certified surgeon experienced with revisions.  Best wishes.

Radix too high as a result of rhinoplasty. Will revision surgery change shape of eye?

Answers (6)

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