Situations Where Revision Rhinoplasty Should Not Be Performed

Revision rhinoplasty is the second surgery performed to correct shape or functional issues that arise after a previous nasal surgery. This procedure requires a more technical plan due to changes in tissue structure, cartilage loss, and healing processes compared to the initial surgery.

This is why revision rhinoplasty may not be suitable for every patient.

The situations in which revision rhinoplasty should be postponed or avoided are explained below.

Revision Rhinoplasty Should Be Avoided If Enough Time Has Not Passed Since the First Surgery

The nasal tissues can take an average of 12–18 months to fully heal.

Performing revision surgery before this time may:

  • Lead to misjudgment of swelling,
  • Cause instability of the cartilage,
  • Make the tissues vulnerable to trauma.

For this reason, most clinical approaches recommend waiting at least 12 months.

Swelling Still Exists in the Nose

In some nose types (thick skin, post-revision nasal tip, soft cartilage structures), swelling may take longer.

If swelling persists, performing revision surgery may make it difficult to plan properly as the final shape of the nose may not be clear yet.

General Health Issues

Revision rhinoplasty may be postponed or deemed unsuitable for some medical conditions:

  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Advanced cardiovascular diseases
  • Presence of serious infections
  • Active systemic diseases
  • Coagulation disorders
  • Severe allergic reactions

burun-ameliyati-sonrasi-odem

Lack of Psychological Readiness

Revision surgery requires a more comprehensive assessment, and managing expectations is crucial.

Revision is generally not recommended in the following situations:

  • Unrealistic expectations
  • Expecting results that cannot be achieved surgically
  • Suspected aesthetic obsession (BDD)
  • Inability to follow the recovery process

kikirdak-kaynaginin-yetersiz-olmasi

The Surgeon Sees the Surgery as Risky

Experienced surgeons may avoid revision if the structural integrity of the nose is at risk.

For example:

  • Excessive weakness in the nasal bridge
  • Advanced loss of supporting cartilage
  • High risk of collapse after healing
  • Tissues with poor blood circulation
  • Noses that have undergone multiple surgeries (3–4 surgeries)

These conditions may increase the risk of the operation.

Lack of Cartilage Sources

In revision cases, the following cartilage sources are often needed:

  • Septal cartilage (may be exhausted in revision cases)
  • Ear cartilage
  • Rib cartilage

If there is insufficient cartilage, the surgeon may prefer to postpone the surgery if support cannot be provided.

Infection or Active Skin Problems

The following conditions make revision impossible:

  • Nasal infections
  • Sinusitis flare-ups
  • Active acne or skin infections

Frequently Asked Questions About Situations in Which Revision Rhinoplasty Should Not Be Done

What is the best time for revision rhinoplasty?

It is generally recommended to wait 12–18 months after the first surgery.

Doç. Dr. Ali Seyed Resuli
Kulak Burun Boğaz Uzmanı

Doç. Dr. Ali Seyed Resuli

Rinoplasti • Revizyon Rinoplasti • Piezo Rinoplasti • Burun Tipleri

WhatsApp