Why Does my Surgeon Tell Me That Revision Rhinoplasty is Risky? (photo)

Question

I had a closed rhinoplasty 7 months ago. However, I hate my results. The tip is too bulky and wide. My surgeon tells me that nothing should be done because it "suits me". He says that revision might ruin the look of my nose because the "paths" are not as wide as before and an accident might happen during operation. Also, I have breathing problems, he says that I have an allergy that was insinuated by the previous operation somehow. I want to know what could and what could not be done to my nose.

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Chantal;

	The criteria for a revision rhinoplasty generally rest on the dissatisfaction of the patient.  Your doctor may not be comfortable doing it, but that is a different story.  If he is not comfortable doing it, and yet you are still unhappy, why not consult with another cosmetic plastic surgeon who is willing to take on the case? 

	Seven months after surgery is enough time to at least have a consultation and consider the prospects for a successful revision rhinoplasty.  If you have breathing problems, perhaps correction of the deviated septum and/or trimming the turbinates should be done. 

	Frankly, some of the reasons that you stated need to be checked out.  It is always wise to have a second opinion.

	Robert Kotler, MD, FACS
	Facial Plastic Surgeon
	Author, SECRETS OF A BEVERLY HILLS COSMETIC SURGEON
	Author, THE ESSENTIAL COSMETIC SURGERY COMPANION

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

ALways remember the enemy of good is better.  You should ask your surgeon why he thinks it is risky to have a revision.  Thick skin makes it difficult to see refinement of structures. But on the other hand, it can camouflage minor irregularities.

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

There is risk with any operation, but I think the word "difficult" better describes a rhinoplasty revision. Find a surgeon who specializes in revision rhinoplasty who will discuss alternatives with you. I think some refinement could be achieved.

Daniel Greenwald, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Your tip does still look a bit bulky.  This may be due to thick fibro-fatty nasal skin which obscures the fine details of your underlying cartilage support.  The surgeon who performed the closed rhinoplasty would be the one to ask about the character of this tissue.  If you are considering a revision make sure you find a surgeon who has a broad experience with revision rhinoplasty

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

You should ask your Rhinoplasty Surgeon why he thinks it's risky.  There's always the possibility of you having several second opinions with experioenced Rhinoplasty Surgeons.  Be sure that the one, you choose, understands and follows the proper aesthetics of facial (and nasal) beauty for the creatiuon of a naturally more attrcative nose and face.

Why Does my Surgeon Tell Me That Revision Rhinoplasty is Risky? (photo)

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Why Does my Surgeon Tell Me That Revision Rhinoplasty is Risky? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty questions

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty questions

Answer: Why Does my Surgeon Tell Me That Revision Rhinoplasty is Risky?

Answer: Why Does my Surgeon Tell Me That Revision Rhinoplasty is Risky?

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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