Definition of Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is a medical procedure that is used to correct the shape or size of a person’s nose after a previous unsuccessful rhinoplasty surgery. It is sometimes referred to as secondary rhinoplasty, and it can be performed on both men and women depending on their needs. The goal of revision rhinoplasty is to improve the appearance of the nose while still maintaining its natural look and function.
The process of revision rhinoplasty typically begins with an initial consultation between the patient and surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s nose structure and discuss their desired outcome from the surgery. The surgeon will then develop a surgical plan tailored specifically for the patient’s needs. This plan may include grafting cartilage from other parts of the body such as the ear, septum, or ribs in order to rebuild any areas that need repair or reshaping.
In addition to improving the overall aesthetics of the nose, revision rhinoplasty also offers many other benefits such as improved breathing due to better alignment of nasal passages, improved facial symmetry, and increased self-confidence due to improved facial appearance. In some cases, revision rhinoplasty may even be used to repair structural damage caused by trauma or injury to the nose.
Overall, revision rhinoplasty is an effective way for people who are unhappy with their previous results from a primary rhinoplasty procedure to achieve their desired look and feel. It can also help those who have suffered from trauma or injury improve their breathing and facial symmetry while boosting confidence in their appearance.
Revision rhinoplasty is a procedure to correct the shape/size of a nose after an unsuccessful first surgery, with benefits including improved breathing, facial symmetry and self-confidence.
Benefits of Using Rib Cartilage for Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that involves grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body to reconstruct the nose. Grafting rib cartilage has several advantages in comparison to other sources of tissue, such as the ear or septum. One benefit is that rib cartilage is stronger and more resilient than other types of cartilage, making it ideal for creating a strong and durable framework for the nose. Additionally, rib cartilage can be carved into intricate shapes, which makes it ideal for creating complex structures like nasal tips and nostrils.

Another advantage of using rib cartilage is that it can be harvested without causing any visible scarring or disfigurement. Unlike harvesting tissue from the ear or septum, which requires incisions on visible areas of the face, rib cartilage can be harvested through an incision in the chest wall that is hidden by clothing. This means that there is no need to worry about visible scarring or disfigurement after surgery.
Finally, rib cartilage also offers superior aesthetic results compared to other sources of tissue. Because it is thicker and more robust than other types of cartilage, it can create a more natural-looking shape and structure for the nose when used in revision rhinoplasty. In addition, because it can be carved into intricate shapes, it can provide a more precise sculpting of the nose than other types of tissue.
Overall, using rib cartilage for revision rhinoplasty offers several advantages over other sources of tissue due its strength, resilience, ability to be carved into intricate shapes, lack of visible scarring or disfigurement after surgery, and superior aesthetic results.
Benefit
|
Advantages
|
Strength & Resilience
|
Stronger and more resilient than other types of cartilage, ideal for creating a strong and durable framework for the nose.
|
Carving Ability
|
Can be carved into intricate shapes, ideal for creating complex structures like nasal tips and nostrils.
|
Scarring & Disfigurement
|
Harvested without causing any visible scarring or disfigurement. Incision in chest wall hidden by clothing.
|
Aesthetic Results
|
Thicker and more robust than other types of cartilage, creates a more natural-looking shape and structure for the nose; can provide a more precise sculpting of the nose than other types of tissue.
|
Complications Associated with Grafting Cartilage from the Patient’s Own Body
Grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body is a common procedure for revision rhinoplasty, but it can come with complications if not performed properly. The most common complication associated with this type of grafting is infection. Infection can occur when bacteria enters the incision site and causes inflammation and swelling. If not treated quickly, this can lead to serious health issues such as sepsis or even death.
Another complication associated with grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body is scarring. This occurs when the incision site does not heal properly and leaves behind a visible scar. Scarring can be prevented by taking proper care of the wound, such as keeping it clean and dry, using an antibiotic ointment, and avoiding activities that may cause further irritation or damage to the area.
A third complication associated with grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body is rejection of the graft. This occurs when the patient’s body rejects the new tissue due to an immune system reaction. Rejection can be minimized by ensuring that all materials used are sterile and free of contaminants before they are implanted into the patient’s body.
Finally, there is a risk of nerve damage associated with grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body. This occurs when nerves in the area are damaged during surgery or become compressed due to swelling in the area after surgery. Nerve damage can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area, and should be addressed immediately if it occurs.
Overall, while grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body is a common procedure for revision rhinoplasty, there are some potential risks associated with it that should be taken into consideration before undergoing surgery.
Grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body is a common procedure for revision rhinoplasty, but it can come with complications such as infection, scarring, rejection and nerve damage.
Techniques Used in Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure used to address any issues that were not addressed during the initial rhinoplasty. This type of surgery is more complex than primary rhinoplasty, as the surgeon must work with the existing structure and attempt to correct any deformities or irregularities. In order to achieve desired results, there are several techniques used in revision rhinoplasty.
Harvesting Cartilage from the Ear, Septum, or Ribs
One of the most common techniques used in revision rhinoplasty is harvesting cartilage from other parts of the patient’s body. Cartilage can be harvested from either the ear, septum, or ribs. The most commonly used source of cartilage for revision rhinoplasty is the patient’s own rib cartilage. This type of cartilage has a low risk of rejection and can be easily shaped into whatever shape is necessary for the desired results.

Computer Imaging
Computer imaging is another technique used in revision rhinoplasty. This technique allows the surgeon to create a 3-D model of the nose before surgery begins. This allows them to get an idea of what they will need to do during surgery and gives them an opportunity to plan out their approach beforehand. Computer imaging also allows them to communicate with their patients about what they should expect after surgery and helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding expectations and desired outcomes.
Technique
|
Description
|
Harvesting Cartilage from the Ear, Septum, or Ribs
|
Cartilage is harvested from other parts of the patient’s body and is most commonly used source of cartilage for revision rhinoplasty. It has a low risk of rejection and can be easily shaped.
|
Computer Imaging
|
Allows the surgeon to create a 3-D model of the nose before surgery begins. This allows them to plan out their approach and communicate with patients about what they should expect after surgery.
|
Droopy Nasal Tip
A droopy nasal tip is a common problem that can occur after rhinoplasty. It occurs when the tip of the nose droops or hangs down, giving the patient an undesirable look. There are several causes of a droopy nasal tip, and there are several techniques used to correct it.
Causes of a Droopy Nasal Tip
The most common cause of a droopy nasal tip is poor technique during rhinoplasty. If too much cartilage is removed from the lower portion of the nose, it can cause the tip to sag. Other causes include over-resection of the columella, over-resection of the alar base, and inadequate support to the lower lateral cartilages.
Techniques Used to Correct a Droopy Nasal Tip
There are several techniques used to correct a droopy nasal tip. One option is to use sutures to lift up the nasal tip. This involves using sutures to create more definition in the lower third of the nose, which can help elevate and support it. Another option is grafting cartilage from another part of the body such as the ear, septum, or ribs. This helps provide additional support and structure for the nose, which can help improve its appearance. Computer imaging can also be used to visualize what changes need to be made in order to achieve desired results.
In some cases, surgical revision may be necessary if other techniques fail to correct a droopy nasal tip. During revision rhinoplasty, cartilage from another part of the body may be grafted onto the nose in order to provide additional support and structure for it. This can help improve its appearance and give it more definition and symmetry.
Revision rhinoplasty can be beneficial for those who have had poor results from their initial rhinoplasty procedure or who have developed complications such as a droopy nasal tip afterward. It is important that patients consult with an experienced surgeon who specializes in revision rhinoplasty in order to achieve optimal results with minimal risk of complications or side effects.
Droopy nasal tip is a common problem that can occur after rhinoplasty and can be corrected with sutures, grafting or revision rhinoplasty. Computer imaging can be used to visualize changes needed to achieve desired results.
Conclusion
Revision rhinoplasty is a complex and delicate surgical procedure that requires a highly-skilled and experienced surgeon. The use of rib cartilage for revision rhinoplasty can provide many benefits, including the ability to create a more natural-looking nose with better projection and improved definition. However, there are potential complications associated with grafting cartilage from the patient’s own body, such as infection, asymmetry, and scarring.
When it comes to techniques used in revision rhinoplasty, harvesting cartilage from the ear, septum, or ribs is often necessary in order to reconstruct the nose. Computer imaging can also be utilized to help visualize the desired outcome before surgery begins. In cases where a droopy nasal tip is present, causes may include weakened lower lateral cartilages or poor tip support. Techniques used to correct this issue include suturing techniques or placement of grafts.
Overall, revision rhinoplasty is an intricate procedure that offers patients the opportunity to improve their facial aesthetics. With the right surgeon and proper techniques, patients can achieve their desired results while minimizing potential risks and complications.