Revision Rhinoplasty

Occasionally, problems or unsatisfactory results will develop with rhinoplasty that requires a second surgery to correct them. This is called “revision rhinoplasty”, and it is one of Dr. David Kahng’s areas of specialty.

Revision Rhinoplasty: Get the Nose You Wanted

If you’ve already undergone rhinoplasty but aren’t happy with your results or the procedure has caused functional problems, a revision rhinoplasty can help. In most cases, this surgery achieves the shape, support, and function that you originally wanted. Although it’s a complex surgery that requires a very experienced, skilled plastic surgeon, revision rhinoplasty has a very high patient satisfaction rate.

Indications for Revision Rhinoplasty

Your areas of concern were not addressed in the first rhinoplasty
Results from the first surgery are not what you expected
Your results did not heal properly
Your primary rhinoplasty has caused breathing issues
Scar tissue or asymmetry have developed due to primary rhinoplasty
The nasal structures have become weak

The Importance of Choosing a Specialist

Revision rhinoplasty should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who is specifically educated, trained, and experienced in the surgery of the nose. This is because revision rhinoplasty requires an enhanced level of knowledge and skill, as the surgeon will often be required to manipulate scar tissue, work with less skin and cartilage, restore structural support, use grafting, and more. A revision rhinoplasty specialist such as Dr. Kahng will ensure you receive the best possible outcome.

Your Consultation

Before your revision rhinoplasty with Dr. Kahng, you will meet with him in a consultation. During this meeting, he will go over why you’re unhappy with the results from your previous rhinoplasty. You will be able to voice any questions or concerns you have, and medical photographs will also be taken of your nose. Dr. Kahng will inform you of the procedure plan that he thinks is best for your needs. This procedure plan will be fully personalized to match your unique needs. Dr. Kahng will review it with you so that you both have a clear concept of your predicted results.

Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery Details

Dr. Kahng performs all of his outpatient procedures at his AAAASF-certified surgery center in the office with a board-certified anesthesiologist. For revision rhinoplasty, the “open” technique is typically chosen. This is the method in which Dr. Kahng creates an incision in the columella (the thin strip that separates the nostrils) in order to gain access to the cartilage and tissues and have the greatest level of precision and control. Some patients already have a scar in this area from their previous rhinoplasty, which means that a new scar won’t be made.

Revision rhinoplasty may involve adding cartilage grafts, bone, or other tissue to the interior of the nose to achieve structure and/or shape. If cartilage grafts are needed, this will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Kahng. Once he has finished making alterations to your nose structure, Dr. Kahng will carefully close the incision, surgical dressings will be placed to protect the area and minimize swelling.

These dressings will need to be kept on until Dr. Kahng advises you that they can be removed (usually about one week). You may also need to wear an external splint.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from revision rhinoplasty will be different for every patient depending on the technique that was used for surgery. However, in general, most patients need 7-10 days off work and other regular activities to avoid complications. During recovery, you will have some swelling, bruising, soreness, and a sensation of congestion. The bruising typically subsides in a week or so, and the swelling will improve over six weeks. The best way to have a speedy, smooth recovery from revision rhinoplasty is to keep your head elevated (even during sleep), apply cold compresses, and follow the home care guidelines we provide you with.

Once the initial swelling has subsided, your revision rhinoplasty results will continue to settle and look better and better over a few months. Final results take 12-18 months, and some minimal changes may continue for up to two years.

Why Choose Dr. Kahng for Revision Rhinoplasty?

Dr. David Kahng’s approach to revision rhinoplasty involves closely listening to your concerns and goals for the procedure. He will develop a personalized treatment plan to meet these goals and improve your appearance, confidence, and quality of life. Dr. Kahng is a highly trained, renowned Korean plastic surgeon in Los Angeles who upholds a philosophy of providing his patients with trust, integrity, and safety.

He is also highly valued for his kind bedside manner. His highly skilled, professional, certified support staff also provides caring supervision throughout your recovery process, and we offer three convenient locations for you to choose from. If you’re interested in revision rhinoplasty with one of the top nose surgeons in Los Angeles, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.