Rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures, but unfortunately, many patients do not achieve the results they are looking for. This is partially because a rhinoplasty is one of the most complicated and technically challenging surgeries. It requires balancing meeting a patient’s cosmetic goals and preserving or enhancing functionality. As such, revision rhinoplasty is sometimes necessary.

Why Choose Revision Rhinoplasty?

There are several reasons why a patient may choose to a have a revision rhinoplasty. The primary reason is that a patient is simply unhappy with the appearance of their nose after an initial rhinoplasty. This may be because their initial plastic surgeon failed to create the results they were looking for or because something went wrong in the initial surgery, resulting in some type of deformity.

The second reason why patients may choose a revision rhinoplasty is because they have problems regarding the function of their nose. In these cases, existing functional issues with the nose may not have been addressed properly during the first rhinoplasty; for example, a patient may have a deviated septum that was not corrected. In others, the surgery may result in nasal passages that are too narrow or excessive scarring which limits functionality.

Regardless of the reason you are choosing revision rhinoplasty, it is important to choose an experienced, qualified plastic surgeon to correct the issues you face with your nose.

How is a Revision Rhinoplasty Performed?

A revision rhinoplasty is a more complex surgery than an initial rhinoplasty because of scar tissue and, in some cases, a lack of adequate cartilage. Many patients will require cartilage grafts, which can be taken from the ear or donated rib cartilage. This grafted cartilage is used to rebuild the septum or other structures in the nose. Functional issues regarding the septum may require “spreader grafts,” which are cartilage grafts intended to spread the narrowed nasal passages.

How Should I Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Revision Rhinoplasty?

You do not have to return to your original plastic surgeon for a revision rhinoplasty. Because a revision rhinoplasty is a more complex procedure, it’s best to choose a plastic surgeon who has advanced experience and training in facial plastic surgery. Dr. David Gilpin specializes in surgical treatment for the nose and holds dual board certification from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. This makes him an excellent choice for more complicated procedures such as revision rhinoplasty. During a consultation, Dr. Gilpin will review the concerns you have regarding your nose and create a personalized treatment plan to correct any cosmetic or functional concerns you may have.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about revision rhinoplasty and to see how Dr. Gilpin can help correct your nose, schedule a consultation at our Nashville office. Call Gilpin Facial Plastics & Aesthetics at (615) 551-9505 or contact us online.