Revision Rhinoplasty | Secondary Rhinoplasty

What Is Secondary Rhinoplasty?

Secondary rhinoplasty is the name given to a nose surgery that follows an initial rhinoplasty. Secondary rhinoplasty is considered corrective surgery to improve upon the results of a previous cosmetic operation. Some also call secondary rhinoplasty "revision rhinoplasty," but revision rhinoplasty can also apply to third or fourth nose surgery. Some of the techniques involved in secondary rhinoplasty can include reshaping the nostrils or improving the structure of the nose for cosmetic or functional purposes. Members of The Rhinoplasty Society use their surgical skills to revise a previous nose surgery or improve certain aspects of the nose.

When Is a Secondary Rhinoplasty Needed?

Common problems that require secondary rhinoplasty include:

  • Nasal airway obstruction
  • The collapse of cartilage or nasal bones
  • Artificial cosmetic appearance to the nose (“overdone nose job”)
  • Internal and external nasal valve collapse
  • Worsened asymmetry
  • Over reduction or inadequate reduction of dorsal height (bridge height/hump)
  • Incomplete shaping (not enough of a cosmetic change)
  • Excessive or inadequate tip projection
  • Excessively narrowed nasal tip (“pinched tip”)
  • Thickened internal or external scar tissue

How Is It Done?

A secondary rhinoplasty can be performed using an open or closed technique. An open technique refers to lifting the skin off of the nose to perform the operation, while a closed technique is done through tiny incisions made in the nostrils. In most cases, minor improvements can be made through a closed approach. With an open approach, your surgeon may use cartilage grafts or an implant to improve the structure of the nose or rebuild certain structures. The specific techniques used during your secondary rhinoplasty will depend on what is being corrected.

Improve Your Rhinoplasty Results

The goal of primary rhinoplasty is to improve the aesthetic and functional integrity of the nose. Ideally, a secondary rhinoplasty would not be needed. But there are some factors that can contribute to needing a second procedure. The best way to make sure you see the results you want from your rhinoplasty is to see a board-certified surgeon with credentials and a proven history of rhinoplasty excellence. You can visit our Find A Surgeon page to locate a Rhinoplasty Society member near your community.

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*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.