The term rhinoplasty refers to nose plastic surgery, also called as a “nose job” by most people. After a previous rhinoplasty, a secondary rhinoplasty is corrective nasal surgery to change the shape and/or function of the nose. Cosmetic or functional abnormalities not adequately corrected or rendered worse by the original procedure may require secondary aesthetic and reconstructive nasal reshaping. Secondary rhinoplasty is also known as “revision rhinoplasty” by some. This larger term can refer to rhinoplasty that is needed after a secondary procedure, such as a third or fourth operation.

Patients seek secondary rhinoplasty to correct certain imbalances that have persisted, developed, or gotten worse. Due to an unanticipated healing issue, inappropriate, or insufficient surgical operations, the nose is frequently out of proportion or out of sync with the rest of the facial characteristics. A secondary rhinoplasty is frequently far more difficult than a main rhinoplasty. Secondary procedures can be successful with the appropriate application of advanced techniques by a rhinoplasty specialist. The first time in rhinoplasty is always the best time to address all of the cosmetic and functional nasal issues, but secondary procedures can be successful with the appropriate application of advanced techniques by a rhinoplasty specialist. The majority of rhinoplasty surgeons have the appropriate experience with more difficult revisional procedures and will be able to address patient concerns. Of course, as with primary rhinoplasty, you should discuss your expectations and goals with your surgeon fully. Bringing in images of your nasal look prior to your previous operation may be beneficial. Previous operational records and medical records may be requested by your rhinoplasty surgeon, although this is not required. Learn more about secondary rhinoplasty and find a rhinoplasty surgeon in your area and visit The Rhinoplasty Society website today and schedule a consultation.

Problems that necessitate secondary rhinoplasty include:

Obstruction of the nasal airway

cartilage or nasal bones collapse

(“Overdone nose job”) is a term used to describe a nose that has been given a cosmetic makeover.

Collapse of the internal and external nasal valves

Asymmetry has gotten worse.

Dorsal height (bridge height/hump) is reduced excessively or insufficiently.

Unfinished sculpting (not enough of a cosmetic change)

Too much or too little tip projection

Nasal tip that is excessively narrowed (“pinched tip”)

Excessive scarring on the inside and/or outside of the body (thickened scar tissue)

A “closed” or “open” technique might be used to make the adjustments required in secondary rhinoplasty. If large structural changes are required, an open approach is usually preferable. A “closed” approach can be used to make minor contour changes. Only internal incisions (endonasal) are done for access to the nasal tissues in closed rhinoplasty. The addition of an incision in the skin bridge between the two nostrils (columella) to pull up the nasal skin for more direct visualization of the structures to be treated is referred to as open rhinoplasty. In revision rhinoplasty, the option to adopt a closed or open approach is depending on the surgeon`s preference, and each procedure has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.