Revision rhinoplasty is a unique and specialized operation that involves correcting aesthetic and functional issues that persist despite of, or because of, prior nasal surgery. Revision rhinoplasty is the most challenging of all plastic surgical operations, and a successful outcome requires a very experienced surgeon who has a passion for this type of work. Dr. Frankel is renowned among the medical community for his revision rhinoplasty expertise.
Contact us to schedule a consultation for revision rhinoplasty surgery.
Consultation and Planning
Dr. Frankel individualizes every patient’s care. He invests the time to fully understand patient expectations, learn complete history, evaluate the inside and outside of the nose, and take digital images. Dr. Frankel will discuss the cosmetic and functional expectations of your rhinoplasty in detail to ensure all your questions are answered. Pre-operative computer imaging, or “photo-morphing,” is performed with all rhinoplasty patients before surgery, so they may have an active role in determining the desired outcome.
Surgical Process
For revision rhinoplasty, results are highly tailored toward each patient’s desires and individuality. The surgery is typically outpatient, with the operation performed in the Lasky Clinic under anesthesia. Procedures can vary widely depending on patient goals and aesthetic desires. Both open and closed approaches are utilized, depending on the situation and the patient’s anatomy, and will be discussed with Dr. Frankel before surgery.
Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure
What to expect on the day of surgery
Anesthesia
The majority of all operations that Dr. Frankel performs will be under the direction of a board-certified anesthesiologist, and involve twilight anesthesia without the need for a breathing tube, ventilator or paralysis.
Even in surgeries taking several hours, the anesthetic is well tolerated and patients wake up quickly feeling very good. The entire experience is enhanced.
Day of surgery
The first one to two hours after rhinoplasty are spent in the recovery room on monitors and under the care of a registered nurse.
Patients are transferred to private rooms once they are more awake, where their families or friends can join them. Once fully alert, patients will be able to return home with a set of post-operative instructions.
Pain management
Rhinoplasty is not typically very painful, and most patients experience more discomfort than pain, particularly immediately after surgery while the local anesthesia is still working.
While recovering at the clinic, patients may receive intravenous medications to stem any acute pain. Patients are discharged from the clinic with their prescribed medications.
Emotions
You will likely feel a variety of different emotions before your surgery: excitement, anxiety, fear, etc. It is normal to have some apprehension before any operation, and in particular one that will change your appearance.
If you are questioning things, Dr. Frankel suggests that you trust yourself and the time and effort you spent making the decision to have surgery and choosing the best doctor.
What to expect after surgery
Swelling
Following surgery, a splint will be placed on the nose, both for protection and to help it maintain its new shape. The nose will be moderately swollen and stuffy for several weeks, and the remainder of the swelling will gradually resolve over the course of the next six to eighteen months.
Hydration
Sleeping with a humidifier can be helpful for the first two weeks after surgery. Once Dr. Frankel gives the go-ahead, use a nasal saline spray to help keep the inside of your nose moist. Using a saline spray will minimize crusting in your nose and will make breathing easier.
Rest and exercise
Rest for the week after surgery and avoid excessive smiling or bending over. Most patients can drive a car and return to work and social activities after eight days. Avoid strenuous/extreme physical exercise for three weeks, and contact sports should be avoided for eight weeks.
Recovery
Every patient heals differently. If you notice that a particular behavior or activity is causing swelling, do your best to avoid that activity until you have healed. Physical recovery from the surgery is fairly quick, but the nose will not achieve its final form for well over a year.
