How to handle a surgeon that disregards post op issues? How do I hold him accountable? (Photo)

Question

My open rhino was in 7/2022. I requested dorsal reduction, droopy tip & bulbous tip correction. Since my surgery I’ve had many issues- retraction, valve collapse, no tip support. My dr hasn’t listened to my concerns. I questioned why grafts weren’t use to support my tip & he claims he’s never heard of grafts being use in primary rhino. He’s also accused me of having Münchausen’s & being his only “problem patient”. He’s denied things that he wrote in my office notes. What do I do?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your result isn’t terrible but certainly could be improved. Consider getting a second opinion and trying to get at least a partial refund.  You need a revision and you don’t have munchhsusen’s. What is wrong with your nose is obvious but your surgeon is blind to it.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, you may have external nasal valve collapse, a hanging columella, and a polly beak. If you're rhinoplasty surgeon is not comfortable dealing with these issues, it always makes the best sense to consult with another expert. In the right hands, your Airway could be improved, along with your nasal aesthetics. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Sorry that you have had a disappointing experience with your primary rhinoplasty surgeon. I would advise you to seek a second opinion from another rhinoplasty surgeon at this point. Especially if considering revision rhinoplasty, it is very important to meet with surgeons in person so that an accurate nasal analysis can be performed. 
Best,Dr. Tower

Ferit Bayakir, MD · Answer

I'm very sorry you've been through an unfortunate process. But the next step should be how to find a solution, not why it happened. In this sense, you should meet with a surgeon you trust and who listens to you for revision.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an accurate assessment regarding the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure we need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures. if you don’t have before, and after pictures, then ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they took.
Without having a clear understanding of what was done or what their results look like, we can’t really begin to make an assessment.
If your provider isn’t giving you the care, you need, then consider rescheduling it a proper in person second opinion consultation. For a second opinion, consultations come prepared bringing with you a complete set of before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

How to handle a surgeon that disregards post op issues? How do I hold him accountable? (Photo)

Answers (5)