Is revision rhinoplasty painful?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. However, occasionally local anesthesia and sedation may be used. In either case, you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Mild pain and discomfort are normal after the procedure. But they could be managed using painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
When can I have a revision rhinoplasty?
Patients are usually advised to wait one year after their first procedure before undergoing a secondary rhinoplasty.
How long does it take to see the final results?
While the initial results start to show up after about two weeks, the final result takes months and even a year to reveal when you’re fully healed and the swelling is completely gone.
Will insurance cover my revision rhinoplasty?
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is usually not covered by insurance, however, if the procedure is performed to fix functional issues, it may be covered. You need to ask your insurance provider to make sure your concerns match the list of the issues they cover.
Should I go to the same surgeon who’s done my first rhinoplasty to do the revision procedure?
What matters is the surgeon’s expertise and experience in revision rhinoplasty and the fact that you discuss your expectations clearly to make sure the surgeon can fix what you’re complaining about. As long as you have confidence in your surgeon and have a mutual understanding of what is ahead of you, it is fine to go to any board-certified surgeon, be it your previous doctor or a new one.
Does revision rhinoplasty take longer to heal?
Yes, usually. Unless the changes are very limited, the revision rhinoplasty recovery could take longer as the scar tissue resulting from the primary surgery cause the swelling to subside more slowly.
When can I get back to work?
You can go back to work in 7 days, usually after the splint is removed. However, many patients are reluctant to be seen with swelling and bruising on their face, therefore, it would be safe to stay away from work for about two to three weeks so that you’re recovered and there’s no sign of the surgery. Please note that strenuous activities must be avoided for about 6 weeks.
How much does revision rhinoplasty cost?
While the cost greatly depends on factors like location, the surgeon’s expertise and reputation, and the hospital quality, it is normal for revision rhinoplasty to cost more than a primary one even up to two to three times higher considering the fact that a revision procedure is more complicated and delicate to handle and take much expertise and may even take longer in terms of the surgery time.
What medicines should I avoid before rhinoplasty?
Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin as well as vitamin E must be avoided from two weeks before the surgery as their blood thinning effect can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery. You must keep away from active and passive smoking for two weeks and drinking alcohol one week before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications during the recovery process.
What is the revision rhinoplasty age limit?
As soon as your nose has reached its full maturity, which means you’re about 16-17 years old, there is no specific age limit regarding rhinoplasty. However, because revision rhinoplasty is often done at least with a year interval from the first one, the youngest age to undergo a revision procedure could be about 17-18. There’s no age limit on the other side. Instead, your general health defines if you’re a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty. More physical examination may be necessary before the nose surgery for patients who are above 40 years old to make sure they’re able to handle the stress resulting from the surgery.
What kind of anesthesia is applied in a revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty is often done under general anesthesia, meaning the patient goes into a sleep-like state. However, in some cases, local anesthesia and sedation may be applied.
Will the revision rhinoplasty scars be visible?
Scars of rhinoplasty depend on the rhinoplasty method (closed or open), the surgeon's expertise in closing the incision, and the patient's post-operative care and recovery which could vary from one person to another. But generally, a closed rhinoplasty will not leave any scar as the incisions are made inside the nose. While open rhinoplasty includes a scar on the columella, if healed properly it is very unnoticeable. Note that a rhinoplasty needing grafting can also come with incisions on body parts besides the nose. However, such areas are often used carefully and the scar will be well-hidden.
Can I fly after revision rhinoplasty?
You’ll be advised to wait at least 5 days before you fly after undergoing rhinoplasty to minimize the risk of bleeding, swelling, and other complications. However, the longer you avoid flying, the better.
How should I sleep after rhinoplasty?
After rhinoplasty, you must avoid sleeping on your stomach and your side. You should sleep on your back with your head elevated.
