Can the bridge of my nose be replaced or repaired as it has completely sunk since I had a rhinoseptoplasty 6 years ago?

Question

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

If this sunken dorsum (aka saddle nose deformity) did not happen all of a sudden from the very first look after cast removal... means it is not an over resection (or not totally) but instead a progressive procedure of landslide or collaps due to support; I understand, therefore, the cause of your sunken dorsum lies at the septum... well, or at its absence... you likely received a total removal of septum instead a septoplasty (a septoplasty is a modification or realignment of the septum, admitting partial frame removals, but never a total removal of the caudal septum which is sadly common).Once the caudal septum has been removed the supratip and the tip lack support and do collapse, however not the nasal bones which stay firm as they are bony. However, if the alar cartilages are strong, the nasal tip skin is hard and holds shape memory, then the tip may not collapse or collapse minimally, so... what's left collapsed then? the supratip area and the middle vault (upper lateral cartilages). These noses have a very typical and easily detected look, either the lower 2/3 collapse or the middle third only.You may belong to the latter, the group of middle vault collapse and sunken supratip, with minimal (if any) tip collapse.The treatmend will depend on the real and well diagnosed (by expert hands) lack of support, tissues properties and aesthetic goals; in some cases it is enough to graft the sunken dorsum.If the removal of septum took place recently the collapse may be restored, but this rarely happens, they are normally septoplasties received long ago and therefore un-expandable.Sometimes the tip needs additional support, like a strut graft.Beware of wrong diagnosis or weird surgical proposals, firstly you have to be well assessed visually by an expert in revisions.If you wish better grounded opinion please do post or send privately well lit, focused and standard images: frontal, both lateral and both oblique views, also underneath the nostrils.
Feel free to request any additional information from me.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

A nasal bridge can usually be repaired pretty reliably, either with a cartilage graft or with a type of material like Gortex. It is recommended to see a rhinoplasty surgeon that has significant experience in revision rhinoplasty as the graft will need to be carved just right to balance the rest of your nose.

Samir Undavia, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Yes, augmentation rhinoplasty to build up the nose is often done in revision rhinoplasty when too much bridge was taken down. But if your nose is 'sinking' since surgery I wonder if your septum is completely intact or whether there is a septal perforation. Are you breathing well through your nose? Or it is bleeding and crusting?  Good luck!

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A thorough set of facial photos and an in-person examination required to make a determination about being a candidate for a revision rhinoplasty procedure, since Revision  rhinoplasty is more difficult than a primary rhinoplasty. Seek out a surgeon with extensive experience for best results.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If your nose collapsed you might need a vary complex reconstruction. You are best to be seen in person to decide what you might need. This may include significant cartilage grafts.

Can the bridge of my nose be replaced or repaired as it has completely sunk since I had a rhinoseptoplasty 6 years ago?

Answers (6)

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty candidate

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty candidate

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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Can the bridge of my nose be replaced or repaired as it has completely sunk since I had a rhinoseptoplasty 6 years ago?

Answers (6)

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty candidate

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty candidate

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty

Answer: Revision rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.