Revision timeline - how long do I need to wait before revision and can I use existing cartilage? (Photos)

Question

I'm 9 wks post op rhino with silicone implant at the bridge of my nose & ear cartilage at the tip. The silicone implant is too big, causing a protrusion. The surgeon who did my surgery said he could do a revision at 3 mos post op & use a smaller silicone implant & remold the ear cartilage that's already present. Another surgeon said I need to wait 9-12 mos before a revision after the tissue has fully healed and can't reuse the existing cartilage in the nose. What's your opinion?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

In some cases, a revision can be performed earlier, such as at 3 months post-op, to address concerns related to the size or position of the implant. This can involve replacing the current silicone implant with a smaller one and potentially modifying or remolding the existing ear cartilage.

On the other hand, waiting for 9-12 months before a revision is a more conservative approach. This allows the tissues to fully heal and stabilize, which may provide a more accurate assessment of the final outcome and any adjustments needed.

It's important to have a thorough consultation with your original surgeon or seek a second opinion from another qualified and experienced rhinoplasty specialist. They can evaluate your specific case, consider your goals and concerns, and provide their professional opinion on the best course of action.

During the consultation, it would be beneficial to discuss the pros and cons of both approaches, including the potential benefits and risks associated with revision surgery at different time points. This will help you make an informed decision about the most appropriate timing and technique for your revision rhinoplasty.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.Usually for revision rhinoplasty it is recommended to wait at least 6 months after your first surgery. Anyway, if the silicone implant now causes you pain and discomfort your doctor can remove it.But the best would be to wait more than 3 months if you can.To correct the nose shape I would recommend you cartilage from the rib (instead of silicone implant or ear cartilage). It is the best to support the nose.Best regards!Prof. Dr. Selcuk Inanli

Hong Ryul Jin, MD · Answer

When you want to remove the silicone dorsal implant, the erlier the better. Waiting 1 yr for revisioin applies to problems of rhinoplasty done with self tissues because it takes time to heal and adapt.
If you think the silicone is too big, I think you can do the revision now. Silicone volume will not decrease and if by any chance infected, it will cause more trouble. But I recommend not using the silicone again. Silicone implant is only convenient when you do the surgery. Most patients my not have problems with silicon dorsal implant for many years, but on the other hand, many patiens suffer from complications of dorsal silicone impoant such as infection, skin thineess, or contraction. Especially if you are thinking of revision surgery, I think it is better to use your own tissue.

Revision timeline - how long do I need to wait before revision and can I use existing cartilage? (Photos)

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