Revision Rhinoplasty in New York
Most plastic surgeons agree that rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging cosmetic procedures. That makes revision rhinoplasty, sometimes called secondary rhinoplasty, even trickier. When you opt for a re-do, it means your plastic surgeon will be working around scar tissue and dealing with cartilage and bone that may have already been modified. A secondary surgery can be quite a delicate operation.
With that in mind, in most cases it is possible to improve the results of a less than satisfying first rhinoplasty. New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Elliot Jacobs has helped many patients, both men and women, achieve a more natural looking nose through revision rhinoplasty. He offers an unusual combination of excellent training, many years of experience and an artist's aesthetic sense and light touch. Read his background and find out more about what he can offer you.
Request a consultation with Dr. Jacobs and come in to meet him soon!
Our Revision Rhinoplasty Philosophy
When you come in to discuss a secondary nose job in New York with us, our objective will be to evaluate the results of your first surgery and determine what can be gained through another procedure. Bring before and after rhinoplasty photos from your first surgery as well as your plastic surgeon's operating notes, if possible. Dr. Jacobs will examine you thoroughly, review the materials and give you an honest assessment about what you can expect the second time around.
Rhinoplasty is a procedure in which millimeters make all the difference. This is true of revision rhinoplasty as well. Dr. Jacobs can improve the look of an asymmetrical nose, smooth leftover bumps and bulges and build up areas where too much tissue has been removed. He also uses fillers like Restylane® to refine surgical results for the right patients.
One key to success in revision rhinoplasty is realistic expectations. Dr. Jacobs is known for honest, open relationships based on mutual trust-you can be certain he will tell you if he believes a second surgery is not in your best interests.
Revision Rhinoplasty Overview
Your secondary rhinoplasty may be an "open" or "closed" procedure. If minor improvement is needed, Dr. Jacobs may be able to work entirely inside the nostrils. This is a closed approach. If greater access to nasal structures is needed, Dr. Jacobs will utilize the open approach. This means he will make a small incision in the columella, the bridge between your nostrils underneath the nose.
Your customized surgical plan may involve removing scar tissue, smoothing cartilage and/or bone and augmenting internal structures with your own cartilage or another material. Dr. Jacobs may also elect to inject a filler to achieve a lasting or even permanent change.
It's likely we will perform your surgery in our fully accredited outpatient facility in New York. Rhinoplasty patients usually have twilight sedation instead of general anesthesia. This option lets you sleep soundly through the operation, awakening easily after surgery. The initial post-op hours are typically much easier for patients who have twilight sedation – there's virtually no anesthesia "hangover."
Your recovery will be very similar to that of your initial nose job. There will be some bruising and swelling, but little actual pain. You'll need to follow the same instructions for resting, elevating your head and refraining from strenuous activity. We will ensure you understand what to expect during your recovery.
You will probably be excited to see your results, and it's a good bet you will be pleased even after just a few days. Just as with your first rhinoplasty experience, however, you need to keep in mind that the final outcome will take months to appear.
Facial implants may be an option for you in that they can help achieve overall facial balance. Dr. Jacobs offers chin and cheek implants and you may want to discuss these choices with him as you meet about revision rhinoplasty. Call our offices at 815 Park Avenue at 212-570-6080 or inquire about a consultation via our online form.
Revision Rhinoplasty FAQ
- I want a permanent fix, why should I consider fillers?
Some patients' nasal structures may have been reduced or weakened to the point where additional surgery is not a good idea. If this should be the case for you, temporary fillers can do a good job in refining the appearance of your nose without risk.
- If my nose needs augmentation, where will cartilage come from?
Most of the time we harvest cartilage from another part of your nose or from your ear. Removal will not be noticeable.
- How long do I need to wait for a second nose job?
Since it takes several months for all swelling to disappear, it's advisable to wait at least that long before considering another procedure. You can come in for a consultation any time, however, and discuss your case with us.