What are the risks associated with Revision Rhinoplasty?
First, patients should be aware of the (extremely rare) complications associated with primary rhinoplasty. This will help them better understand what can be corrected with the secondary surgery.
Generally, there are two basic types of complications: functional (related to breathing) and aesthetic (related to appearance).
Please see below a list of the risks that may appear after revision rhinoplasty. Most of them are common with those developed after primary rhinoplasty, but occur much more rarely.
What about infection?
It happens in less than one percent of the cases. If the patient experiences pain or redness following the surgery, the surgeon should be notified immediately. However, after the operation, the patient is given antibiotics in order to heal this.
What about bleeding and haematoma?
This occurs usually immediately after the operation and is expected to stop in a few hours. This is normal bleeding. However, a blood clot (known as a haematoma) may accumulate under the skin or between the skin and cartilage. A return visit to the surgery is necessary then. If the patient experiences serious pain after the surgery, the surgeon should be notified as soon as possible.
What about eye injury?
This may occur because of the damage to the tear drainage apparatus during the operation performance. Eye injury can be avoided by carefully protecting the eyes during the surgery.
What about asymmetry?
Since the operation is performed on both nasal sides (a left and a right side), the surgeon must pay great attention to symmetry. For example, asymmetries can be caused surgically by unequal treatment of the lower tip cartilages or by unequal scarring.
What about skin problems?
This complication is minor and temporary. The skin may be affected by the tape that is applied to the nose beneath the splint. Pustules or allergic dermatitis may occur, but can be treated.
What about broken capillaries?
This condition may already exist on the nose and can be treated with laser.
Will I have scarring?
The small incisions on the columella and nostrils will heal very well, so the scars will be hardly visible. They are almost unnoticeable after one month.
What about bone irregularities?
These may occur because of the nasal bone reshaping. If they are only palpable and not visible, then they can be disregarded. However, another minor procedure can be performed to solve this problem. It is recommended to wait at least one year.
Could I have a decreased sense of smell?
This is rather a theoretical possibility and may be a potential source of irritation.
What else should I know about risks and complications?
Patients should be aware that risks may more often occur among persons who smoke, are overweight, have diabetes or other health problems.
What happens if permanent damage occurs?
You might need further surgery to correct the problem.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about revision rhinoplasty or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.
