Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision Rhinoplasty in Chicago by Dr. Jay Dutton

Year after year, nose job surgery remains one of the most enduringly sought-after procedures performed in the United States. When results are positive, it works wonders in improving facial appearance and nose function. But when the outcome is negative, it may cause more problems than it was supposed to solve. While most rhinoplasty procedures deliver excellent results, as much as 15% of rhinoplasty patients will need some form of revision rhinoplasty in Chicago and throughout the USA.

Revision rhinoplasty is a corrective surgery that improves the results from a previous nasal procedure. The surgery requires the talent and expertise of the best revision rhinoplasty surgeon Chicago has to offer, navigating such challenges as the presence of scar tissue and missing cartilage. The Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago aims to have all patients enjoy optimal results from their facial improvements, including the complexities of revision rhinoplasty.

If you are considering revision rhinoplasty in Chicago or the surrounding area, we invite you to learn more about the procedure by scheduling a consultation with double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jay Dutton.

Reasons to Consider Revision Rhinoplasty

For successful revision rhinoplasty, the person should:

  • Be at least a year removed from initial rhinoplasty surgery.
  • Have realistic expectations for the outcome.
  • Be a non-smoker.
  • Be in good overall health.

To learn if you are a suitable candidate for revision rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dutton.

Ideal Revision Rhinoplasty Candidates

For successful revision rhinoplasty, the person should:

  • Be at least a year removed from initial rhinoplasty surgery.
  • Have realistic expectations for the outcome.
  • Be a non-smoker.
  • Be in good overall health.

To learn if you are a suitable candidate for revision rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dutton.

What to Expect During Your Chicago Revision Rhinoplasty Consultation

Before any facial surgery, we ask you to sit with Dr. Dutton to learn more about the procedure. During this time, he will assess the anatomy of your face and nasal structures, discuss your surgical and medical history, what medications you may be taking, and listen to your goals and concerns.

Dr. Dutton uses state-of-the-art 3D computer imagery to help his patients visualize the results they can expect. Afterward, he will recommend if revision rhinoplasty is the right procedure for your unique situation. If so, he will devise a surgical plan tailored specifically to your needs.

The Chicago Revision Rhinoplasty Process

Dr. Dutton performs revision rhinoplasty as an outpatient procedure while you’re under general anesthetic or IV sedation, allowing you to return home to begin your recovery process the same day. The surgery lasts between one and three hours before your surgical team moves you to our recovery area.

For almost all revision rhinoplasty procedures, Dr. Dutton employs the open rhinoplasty technique. This method uses allows more visualization of the nasal tissues. The open technique consists of a small incision on the columella (the thin strip of skin between the nostrils at the base of the nose). This incision allows Dr. Dutton to pull back the skin tissue so he can make the necessary corrections. Here, he may sculpt nasal cartilage, remove excess tissue, or place a nasal implant. Then, he will re-drape the skin tissue and close the incision with tiny sutures.

The Chicago Revision Rhinoplasty Recovery

Recovery for revision rhinoplasty takes about two weeks. Patients should expect some swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose, with some bleeding possible from the nasal passages. Most of these effects will subside over a week or two, but some swelling may persist for up to a year. Pain is moderate, and you can manage it with medication so you can rest comfortably at home.

During the first week after an open rhinoplasty, you may notice the tiny incision at the base of the nostrils. This scar is discreet and will fade over time. We ask that you follow these instructions for a successful recovery:

  • Keep head elevated at all times, even when you are sleeping.
  • Use cold compresses to control swelling, alternating 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
  • No strenuous activities for a couple of weeks or until Dr. Dutton clears you to do so.
  • No blowing or rubbing your nose.

Many patients return to work after a week. Avoid heavy lifting, working out, or strenuous activity for four to six weeks. Dr. Dutton will schedule a follow-up appointment to remove sutures and check on your recovery process.

Revision Rhinoplasty Cost

The cost of the procedure will depend on various factors, including the level of correction necessary, the technique employed, and the unique nasal structure of each patient. Your total price tag will include anesthesia cost, surgeon’s fees, operating room fees, and follow-up appointments. We’ll discuss this breakdown with you during your consultation.

Revision Rhinoplasty Benefits

If you seek the services of a qualified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial and reconstructive surgery, here is a good idea of what benefits you can expect. These may include:

  • Straightened nose
  • Opening of the nasal passages to breathe freely
  • Resolve flared nostrils
  • Fix a formerly broken nose that has healed crookedly
  • Narrow a wide nose
  • Remove a bump or hump on the nose bridge
  • Correct a drooping or hooked nose
  • Remove a bulbous tip
  • Better overall facial symmetry

This list is only the beginning. When you experience skilled aesthetic improvement on your nose, your confidence will soar alongside your self-esteem.

Take the Next Steps Toward Your Revision Rhinoplasty

Attaining the nose of your dreams begins with a confidential conversation. The Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago offers two convenient locations in the Chicago metropolitan area. To schedule a consultation, please fill out our contact form with Dr. Dutton or call 630-574-8222.

Revision Rhinoplasty FAQs

Is revision rhinoplasty painful?

Revision rhinoplasties tend to be less painful than the original nose surgery. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often sufficient for the discomfort following Dr. Dutton’s revision rhinoplasty procedures.

What are the risks and potential complications after revision rhinoplasty?

Dr. Dutton’s revision rhinoplasty is a safe and highly effective procedure, though it carries a small risk for complications. These may include burst blood vessels, excessive scarring, delayed healing, pulling to one side, asymmetry, or the need for additional procedures.

Will my insurance cover revision rhinoplasty?

Your insurance could cover the operation if the procedure is to improve nasal function, like enhancing your breathing. However, if revision rhinoplasty is exclusively cosmetic, your insurance company probably will not pay for the operation.

How many revisions are possible?

While it is never advised to repeatedly seek the same repetitive surgery, a rhinoplasty patient who is unhappy with their appearance can pursue a revision until they believe their results are optimal. Of course, patients must heal entirely from the primary rhinoplasty before seeking a correction – and should give their original nose job a chance to heal and settle before arranging a revision.