My new surgeon asked me if I had a previous nose surgery during consultation. Advice?

Question

I had my first nose surgery in 2014. I said no. I was not comfortable disclosing this information with my new surgeon.My question is should I go back and inform my new plastic surgeon that wants to perform my rhinoplasty, that I previously had rhinoplasty, or could he tell when he looked in my nose during consultation? My other question is, if I do decide to tell my new plastic surgeon that I had a previous nose surgery how should I tell the new surgeon? Or should I just schedule the surgery and move on.

Brian Maloney, MD, FACS · Answer

Honesty is the best policy!!! You have one less than desireable outcome, do not set yourself up for another.

Avron Lipschitz, MD · Answer

He is just trying to get the information in order to best serve your needs and to optimize outcomes. He is not being judgmental at all and it is best to tell him about your previous surgery. Believe me he does not want any surprises in the operating room and neither do you.

Steven M. Denenberg, MD · Answer

It's not just a matter of concealing the previous surgery from your doctor. What if your doctor isn't good enough to perform expert revision rhinoplasty? He starts the operation, sees that your have had previous surgery, and doesn't know what to do. If he's smart, he'll recognize it early on (I don't quite see how he missed that you had previous surgery on his consultation examination, but stuff happens) and just end the procedure right there. That would be best case for you, but there you are, with the hospital charge and having undergone an unnecessary anesthesia. Worst case is that he tries to do the operation anyway, and you wind up having to go to someone else in another year for another revision. Gotsta tell the doc.

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

The single most important issue that will effect the outcome of your rhinoplasty surgery is the relationship that you have with your surgeon.  Full disclosure of all medical history and especially a history of prior surgery on the area that you are seeking to have corrected is vital to a successful surgical outcome.  I can think of no body part where knowledge of prior manipulation or surgery would have more influence on the surgical approach your surgeon prepares for more than your nose.  Your rhinoplasty surgeon should have your best interest in mind at all times.  They are not going to judge you.

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

This is very important information for your new surgeon to know if you want them to have the best chance of giving you the best possible result.

Marcelo Ghersi, MD · Answer

First of all, I dont understand why you would choose to hide this from the person who will be operating on your nose. It can only help you. If you do not feel comfortable with your surgeon, perhaps you should find another one.

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

A comprehensive medical history is necessary prior to any plastic surgery. Relevant information, such as prior rhinoplasty in a patient planning revision rhinoplasty, is especially important. Yes, most plastic surgeons will know by examination if one has had prior surgery. However, for the best results, patients should not keep secrets from their plastic surgeon.Best,Dr. Chaboki

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

The best policy in a consultation is telling the truth.  Trust me, if your Surgeon is experienced in Rhinoplasty, he already knows that you have had a procedure.  Just be honest.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear deltas29, It is extremely important that your new surgeon be aware of your past nasal surgeries if you decide to go forward with another surgery. If available, your surgeon should review your previous operative report so they know what was previously done to your nose. Not telling the new surgeon could lead to complications during surgery, as well as affect your results after.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

It is important to know that you had prior work done.  The rhinoplasty is significantly harder when it is a revision due to scarring.  Also if cartialge was used, there may be no septal cartilage available for your surgeon when he thinks there may be.

My new surgeon asked me if I had a previous nose surgery during consultation. Advice?

Answers (20)

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