Rhinoplasty is one of the most difficult plastic surgeries to perform and only a select few surgeons are truly expert at revisions. Pinched noses, misshapen tips, visible structural deformities and a continued bumps or asymmetries are some of the untoward results of rhinoplasty surgery. Because it is the focal point of the face, even minor asymmetries can be noticeable and detract from overall facial harmony and beauty. Dr. Meier is one of a select few surgeons who specializes in revision rhinoplasty. If you are interested in Revision Rhinoplasty in Florida, we want you to be familiar and comfortable with the entire process.
Revision Rhinoplasty Consultation
So you have decided that you are very interested in revision rhinoplasty and would like to take the next step. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Meier will give you the information you need about the entire process. Feel free to bring photos of what your nose originally looked like before your first rhinoplasty as well as what you ideally want your nose to look like. It is not a bad idea to also bring a friend or family member for support.
During the one-on-one consultation, you will meet with Dr. Meier and discuss your goals with revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Meier will review your medical and surgical history as well as medications. It is important to let Dr. Meier know of any other facial surgeries that have been performed in the past and he may request your previous rhinoplasty operative report. Every nose is different and Dr. Meier will examine the inside and outside of your nose in detail. Based on your goals and the examination, he will tailor an individualized plan to give you the best result and restore your nose to a beautiful shape. Dr. Meier’s staff will then take standardized photographs of your face and nose and use photography software to give you a preview of your new nose and what can be achieved with revision rhinoplasty.
Revision Rhinoplasty Procedure
Prior to Surgery
Dr. Meier will give you a detailed list of instructions on what to do prior to surgery. Blood thinning medications should be discontinued for a period of time prior to surgery. It is also important not to eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your rhinoplasty. Certain medications that Dr. Meier specifies are allowed, such as blood pressure medicines, can be taken with a sip of water.
Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery
You will arrive at the facility for the surgery and meet the nursing staff. They will review your paperwork and start an IV for anesthesia. You will then meet the board-certified anesthesiologist who will be administering your anesthetic for the procedure. They will ask you questions regarding your medical and surgical history and review the anesthesia process with you. Dr. Meier will also visit with you in the preop area prior to surgery.
Once you are given an anesthetic and you are asleep, Dr. Meier will make incisions for your revision rhinoplasty. A tiny incision is typically used between your nostrils as well as inside of nose. Through these incisions, Dr. Meier will reshape your nose to match what was discussed in the consultation. Dr. Meier will utilize cartilage grafting to rebuild and reshape your nose to a more beautiful state. The surgery typically takes several hours to get it just right and give you the best revision rhinoplasty result.
Recovery
Recovery begins immediately after surgery. Nursing staff will make sure you are comfortable in the recovery room and apply ice to the nose and eyes. Dr. Meier uses an external support splint as well as tape to maintain the shape of your new nose. These will stay in place until your first postoperative visit at 1 week. Unlike other surgeons, Dr. Meier rarely uses any internal splints or packing. This allows for better pain control and the ability to breathe through your nose immediately after surgery.
Bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes are common. To minimize bruising and swelling, use ice packs as instructed for a few days after the surgery and sleep with your head elevated on a couple of pillows. Drainage from your nose is common for a few days and minor bleeding may occur. Use nasal saline to keep the inside of your nose moist and healing well. Clean the incisions as instructed but be careful not to blow your nose as this can cause bleeding or damage to the result.
Make sure you are getting the appropriate nutrition and rest for optimal healing. Dr. Meier recommends doing nothing strenuous and no bending over or heavy lifting for at least a week. Dr. Meier typically allows light exercise to begin a few weeks after surgery. To prevent blood clots and promote good circulation, walk around at least few times a day.
Facial Plastic Surgery in Florida
Your face is your most important feature as it gives both the first and lasting impression. Aesthetic style differs greatly between surgeons as it depends on not only acquired knowledge and experience, but also aesthetics and ability. Dr. Meier uses his expert knowledge, advanced skill and precision techniques to provide you with beautiful results and a natural appearance. That is his style in everything face so call our team for a consultation with Dr. Meier today.
FAQs
How long will I be swollen or bruised? Most bruising and swelling resolves in about 2-3 weeks but can take longer (up to a few months) for all swelling to go away.
When can I go back to school/work? Most patients go back to work around 10-14 days after revision rhinoplasty. Bruising is typically gone and the splint and sutures are removed but there is usually some swelling still at that point.
Is rhinoplasty painful? All surgeries have some degree of discomfort. Dr. Meier provides you with pain medications to alleviate this. Most patients use pain medicines for a few days after surgery.
Can I drive myself home after the rhinoplasty? No. All patients will require someone to drive them home due to the effects of anesthesia and surgery.
Will insurance cover my revision rhinoplasty? Copays, deductibles, coverage and out-of-pocket expenses related to insurance are often difficult for most patients to navigate. But as a basic rule of thumb, insurance coverage for primary or revision rhinoplasty is only to correct breathing problems from obstructed nasal airways. As every insurance plan differs, our office staff can help you determine if your surgery is covered.
Does revision cost the same as my first rhinoplasty? In most cases, revision rhinoplasty costs more because it take longer and requires a significant amount of more work to perform to correct previous bad work.