Revision Rhinoplasty in Detroit

Revision rhinoplasty (also called secondary rhinoplasty) is a surgical procedure performed to correct or refine the results of a previous nose job. It is significantly more complex than primary rhinoplasty because the surgeon must work through scar tissue, potentially use cartilage grafts from other areas (like the ear or rib), and address both cosmetic and functional concerns that may have arisen from the first surgery. Results require a highly experienced specialist.

Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 12 to 18 months after your initial rhinoplasty before undergoing revision surgery. This allows all swelling to fully resolve, scar tissue to mature, and the final results of your first procedure to become fully visible. Rushing into a revision too early can lead to inaccurate assessments and suboptimal outcomes.

Common reasons include breathing difficulties following the first surgery, a pinched or over-reduced nasal tip, collapse of the nasal bridge, asymmetry, residual bumps, and cosmetic results that did not meet expectations. Some patients also experience changes in the nose over time due to aging or trauma after their original procedure.

Yes, revision rhinoplasty carries a higher degree of surgical complexity and risk compared to primary rhinoplasty. The presence of scar tissue, reduced blood supply, and potential cartilage deficits make the procedure more technically demanding. Choosing a board-certified surgeon who specializes exclusively in revision cases is critical for achieving the safest and best outcome.

Many revision rhinoplasty patients do require cartilage grafts to rebuild structural support, refine the tip, or restore the bridge. Cartilage is typically harvested from the septum (if available), the ear, or in more complex cases, the rib. Your surgeon will evaluate the availability of your existing cartilage and determine the best donor site during your consultation.

Revision rhinoplasty generally costs more than primary rhinoplasty due to the added complexity, longer operating time, and potential need for cartilage grafts. Costs vary widely based on geographic location, the surgeons expertise, anesthesia fees, and the extent of correction needed. A personalized quote will be provided during your consultation.

Recovery from revision rhinoplasty is similar to or slightly longer than recovery from a primary procedure. Most patients, experience significant swelling and bruising for 2–4 weeks and see the majority of swelling subside within 3–6 months. Final results, particularly subtle tip refinements, may take 12–18 months to fully appear.

Yes. Revision rhinoplasty can address both cosmetic concerns and functional issues such as nasal obstruction, a deviated septum, collapsed nasal valves, or breathing difficulties that resulted from the original surgery. A comprehensive evaluation by your surgeon will determine whether functional reconstruction can be performed simultaneously with cosmetic refinements.

Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon with extensive, documented experience specifically in revision rhinoplasty, not just general rhinoplasty. Review before-and-after galleries focusing on revision cases, reading patient testimonials, and scheduling multiple consultations. The surgeons aesthetic sensibility, communication style, and honest assessment of what is achievable matter enormously.