Revision Rhinoplasty – Most Frequently Asked Questions by International Patients

What is Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is a second or third surgery performed to correct shape, breathing problems, or inadequate support in the nose after a previous rhinoplasty. The technique used, the amount of cartilage required, and the recovery time completely depend on the patient's nasal structure and the previous surgery.

Why Do Patients Prefer Istanbul?

Istanbul has been a center with extensive case experience in rhinoplasty for many years.

Every year, patients from many countries contact Istanbul-based clinics for information on:

• operation planning,
• combined breathing and aesthetic correction,
• advanced revision procedures

This content is for informational purposes only. Planning for each patient is based on the doctor's evaluation.

How is planning done for revision rhinoplasty from abroad?

The preliminary assessment is generally made based on the patient's nasal photos and medical history. The final planning is determined through a face-to-face examination.

How soon should I arrive in Istanbul?

Patients typically arrive for a doctor's examination 1-2 days before the surgery.

It is common to stay in the city for 7–10 days after surgery.

How many days should I wait to travel after revision rhinoplasty?

Usually, flying is possible after the 7th day; however, the final decision is made according to the doctor's recommendation.

Why is cartilage demand higher in revision rhinoplasty?

In previous surgeries, the cartilage inside the nose may have weakened.

Therefore, in the second surgery:

• septum cartilage,
• ear cartilage,
• rib cartilage

may be required as additional sources.

Is rib cartilage removal painful or safe?

In modern techniques, pain control is quite good.

A small incision is made in the chest wall; healing varies from person to person.

When done with the proper technique, it is a safe procedure.

How long does swelling and edema last after revision rhinoplasty?

• It is prominent in the first 1-2 weeks.
• It decreases by 60-70% in the 1st month.
• Complete settling can take 6–12 months.

Since it is a revision, the edema duration may be longer than the first surgery.

When can revision rhinoplasty be performed?

It is healthier to wait at least 9-12 months after the previous surgery for better results.

This period is important for the nasal tissue to soften and become suitable for reshaping.

How can someone living abroad contact the doctor?

Typically, the following can be done:

• Photo evaluation,
• Sharing medical history,
• Pre-consultation,
• Risk assessment

All of this can be done online. The final surgical planning is carried out after a clinical examination.

Will there be a loss of taste and smell after revision rhinoplasty?

There may be temporary changes in the sense of smell, but long-term loss is not expected.

The sense of smell usually returns to normal as the healing progresses.

Is bleeding normal after revision rhinoplasty?

There may be slight leakage after surgery.

Heavy and prolonged bleeding is not normal; in this case, the doctor should be consulted.

What grafts and support materials are used in revision rhinoplasty?

• Septum cartilage
• Ear cartilage
• Rib cartilage
• Soft tissue grafts

The selection is made entirely based on the need for nasal internal support.

Is revision rhinoplasty a permanent solution?

The success of the surgery depends on many factors, such as the patient's tissue quality, nasal structure, previous surgeries, and the techniques used.

As with any surgery, individual anatomical differences affect the results.

What should be considered when selecting a doctor? (For overseas patients)

• Experience in revisions
• Approach to assessing nasal functions
• Clarity of techniques used
• Pre- and post-surgery information
• Communication with the surgeon

Every detail becomes clear with the doctor's examination.