What is Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Revision rhinoplasty surgery is performed to correct or improve the results of a previous nose surgery. Also called secondary rhinoplasty, this procedure is more complex than a primary rhinoplasty and is usually done when the original results didn’t meet your expectations—either cosmetically or functionally.
You might be dealing with lingering breathing issues, asymmetry, or a nasal shape that simply doesn’t fit your facial features. In some cases, both aesthetic and functional concerns are involved. Regardless of the reason, revision rhinoplasty offers a second chance to achieve the outcome you originally hoped for.
Reasons for Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure
There are many reasons people choose to undergo revision surgery. Some are related to appearance, others to breathing problems, and sometimes both.
Common reasons for revision rhinoplasty include:
A crooked or asymmetric nose after the first surgery
Difficulty breathing due to a collapsed nasal valve or deviated septum
Over-reduction or under-correction of the nasal bridge or tip
Visible irregularities or bumps that weren't addressed properly
Nostril asymmetry or collapse
Excess scar tissue from the original procedure
Sometimes, the first rhinoplasty may have gone well, but the healing process altered the final outcome. Swelling, scar tissue, and cartilage movement can all affect how your nose ultimately looks or functions.
Primary Rhinoplasty vs. Revision Surgery
The first rhinoplasty, often called primary rhinoplasty, is typically performed on a nose that hasn’t been surgically altered. The nasal structures are intact, and there’s no scar tissue to work around. That makes the surgery more predictable in many ways.
Revision rhinoplasty, on the other hand, involves working with tissue that’s already been changed—possibly weakened, scarred, or missing cartilage. In some cases, cartilage grafts from your rib or ear may be needed to rebuild structure. Because of these factors, revision rhinoplasty requires more planning, advanced techniques, and a longer healing time.
Consultation with Your Revision Rhinoplasty Surgeon
Your journey begins with a consultation. During this visit, Dr. Derderian, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Dallas, will examine your nose both inside and out, ask about your previous surgery, and go over your goals.
Be prepared to discuss:
What you didn’t like about your previous nose surgery
Functional issues like nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing
Any complications during healing, such as infections or scar tissue buildup
What changes you’d like to see, and what your expectations are
Photos from before and after your previous nose job can be helpful for Dr. Derderian to understand how your nose has changed. Every nose—and every revision—is unique, so the consultation is crucial in planning the best approach for you.
Benefits of Revision Rhinoplasty for Patients
While revision surgery can be challenging, it also offers major benefits. It gives you the opportunity to restore both appearance and function when the first surgery didn’t deliver.
Some of the key benefits include:
Improved breathing if you're dealing with nasal blockage
Better symmetry and proportion that suits your facial features
Correction of complications like nostril collapse or a pinched nasal tip
Enhanced confidence and satisfaction with your appearance
For many patients, this second procedure can be life-changing—especially if the first experience left you feeling disappointed or self-conscious.
What the Procedure Involves
Revision rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the complexity of your case, surgery may take anywhere from two to four hours or longer. Dr. Derderian may use either an open or closed technique.
Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella (the tissue between your nostrils) and allows full access to the nasal structures.
Closed rhinoplasty keeps all incisions inside the nostrils and is generally used for less complex revisions.
In cases where there’s missing support or over-resection of cartilage, Dr. Derderian may use cartilage grafts taken from your ear, rib, or remaining nasal septum. These grafts help rebuild and stabilize the nasal framework.
Recovery and Healing Process
Recovery from revision rhinoplasty is similar to your first nose surgery, but healing can take a bit longer due to the presence of scar tissue and more extensive adjustments.
Here’s what you can typically expect:
Swelling and bruising during the first 1–2 weeks
Nasal congestion and mild discomfort
Wearing a nasal splint for 7–10 days
Avoiding strenuous activities for 4–6 weeks
Swelling—especially in the nasal tip—can last longer than with primary rhinoplasty. It may take up to a year or more to see your final results, though you’ll notice gradual improvements along the way. Patience is key.
Results and Expectations
The results of revision rhinoplasty can be very rewarding, but it’s important to have realistic expectations. Because the nose has already been operated on, the tissues may not respond the same way they did the first time.
That said, when performed by an experienced revision rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Derderian, the procedure can successfully restore both form and function. Whether you’re seeking better symmetry, smoother contours, or improved airflow, this surgery can help you move forward from a previous nose job that didn’t go as planned.
Your final results will depend on several factors:
The condition of your nose after the original procedure
The amount of scar tissue present
The availability of cartilage for grafting
How well your body heals after surgery
The Role of Dr. Derderian
Revision rhinoplasty is one of the most intricate procedures in plastic surgery. Dr. Derderian brings extensive expertise in both cosmetic and reconstructive nasal surgery, offering patients in Dallas personalized, precise treatment and exceptional care.
Because the procedure is so nuanced, Dr. Derderian focuses on:
Assessing the impact of previous surgery and current nasal structure
Using advanced surgical techniques to avoid further complications
Managing scar tissue and cartilage loss effectively
Creating natural-looking results that match your overall facial harmony
If you're considering revision rhinoplasty, having a trusted facial plastic surgeon with years of experience like Dr. Derderian makes all the difference in achieving a smooth, successful outcome.
A Closer Look at Nasal Anatomy
Understanding the anatomy of the nose helps explain why revision rhinoplasty can be so challenging. The nose is made up of bone, cartilage, skin, and internal structures like the nasal septum. Even small changes in one area can affect the balance of the entire nose.
When there's damage to the nasal tip, bridge, or septum during previous surgery, it can lead to long-term complications. In some cases, internal collapse of the nostrils can cause breathing problems. Other times, too much cartilage was removed, creating a sunken or pinched appearance.
By using cartilage grafts and careful reconstruction, Dr. Derderian works to rebuild a stable, natural-looking shape that functions properly and suits your face.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve had previous nose surgery and are unhappy with how your nose looks or feels, revision rhinoplasty offers an opportunity for improvement. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, functional, or both, secondary rhinoplasty can help restore your confidence and comfort.
Every revision surgery is different, and the details of your procedure will depend on your anatomy, goals, and the changes made during your first surgery. With thoughtful planning, expert surgical technique, and a clear understanding of what you want to achieve, Dr. Derderian can help guide you toward long-lasting, satisfying results.