Q - Will I have scars after revision rhinoplasty?
There is no visible scarring when revision rhinoplasty is performed with the closed technique as all incisions are confined to the inside of the nose. The open technique will result in a small, well-concealed scar that is located on the underside of the nose on the strip of skin separating the nostrils (the columella). Dr. Litner and Dr. Solieman are trained to perform both techniques.

Q - Will I be in much pain after undergoing revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty procedures tend to involve less pain then primary rhinoplasty procedures. In addition, Dr. Solieman and Dr. Litner rarely use nasal packing after the procedure which allows the postoperative period to be much more comfortable. Nevertheless, patients may experience some achiness of the nose and a dull headache which medication can control.

Q - What is the recovery like after revision rhinoplasty?
The face may feel puffy during the first two days after the revision rhinoplasty surgery. The nose may ache and patients may experience a dull headache which can be controlled with medication. Some bruising and minor swelling may occur in the eye area in the first few days after surgery, though revision rhinoplasty tends to involve less swelling and bruising than primary rhinoplasty procedures, along with less discomfort. Absorbable sutures are often used and do not need to be removed. The splint and nasal dressings will be removed within about five to seven days. You will be advised to refrain from blowing your nose during the first week and to keep the head elevated as much as possible. You will also need to take care when using cosmetics and washing your face and hair. If you wear glasses, they will need to be taped to your forehead or propped on your cheeks until your nose has completely healed.

Q - How soon will I be able to return to work after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
Sedentary work can usually be resumed in about five to seven days after the revision rhinoplasty procedure.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
You will be provided with specific instructions on resuming your activities. In general, however, you will need to avoid any activity which can increase the blood pressure for two to three weeks. This includes jogging, bending, swimming, and sexual activity. You will also need to avoid hitting or rubbing the nose and getting it sunburned for eight weeks.

Q - When will the stitches be removed after my revision rhinoplasty procedure?
Revision rhinoplasty often involves absorbable stitches which do not need to be removed.

Q - Are there any risks associated with revision rhinoplasty?
All surgery involves some risk. The potential risks associated with revision rhinoplasty may include adverse anesthesia reactions, excessive scarring, prolonged swelling, pulling of the nose to one side, small burst blood vessels, and the need for additional surgery.

Q - Is revision rhinoplasty covered by insurance?
Surgery that is purely cosmetic in nature is generally not covered by insurance, though some coverage may be available when revision rhinoplasty is performed to treat an injury or major deformity or improve nasal function. Patients should check with their own insurance company.

Q - What is revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance and function of the nose after a previous rhinoplasty procedure.

Q - Who is a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty?
Those who are unhappy with the appearance and/or function of the nose after a prior rhinoplasty surgery may be good candidates for revision rhinoplasty. As with all types of facial plastic surgery, patients must also be in good health and have realistic expectations. The best candidates for revision rhinoplasty are individuals who are seeking improvement rather than perfection. Dr. Solieman and Dr. Litner will also take other factors into consideration such as skin type, age, and ethnic background.

Q - At what age can revision rhinoplasty be performed?
As with rhinoplasty, it’s generally advised that the surgery only be performed once the nose has reached its full growth, typically around fifteen or sixteen years of age, though there are occasional exceptions.

Q - What does the consultation for revision rhinoplasty entail?
During your consultation with Dr. Litner or Dr. Solieman, you will explain what you dislike about your nose since your previous rhinoplasty procedure. The doctor will evaluate the structure of your nose and face and take your medical history. Be sure to tell him about all previous surgeries or injuries that have occurred to the nose, any medical conditions, allergies or breathing difficulties you have, any medications you are taking, and whether or not you smoke. The doctor will discuss the possibilities available to you and answer any questions that you have. Your picture will be taken and imaging used so that you and the doctor can arrive at a realistic expectation for your surgery. All details of the revision rhinoplasty surgery will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the potential risks, the recovery, and the costs.

Q - Where do Dr. Litner and Dr. Solieman perform revision rhinoplasty?
All outpatient procedures will be performed in our brand new, state of the art, fully accredited, office-based surgical facility located in Beverly Hills.

Q - What type of anesthesia will be used for my revision rhinoplasty surgery?
Dr. Solieman and Dr. Litner commonly use general anesthesia for the revision rhinoplasty procedure, though the choice of anesthetic is also dependent upon the extent of your procedure and your preference.

Q - How is the revision rhinoplasty surgery performed?
After the anesthesia is administered, incisions are made and the skin of the nose is separated from the underlying bone and cartilage. While the exact nature of the surgery will depend on your particular problem, the nose is often reshaped by repositioning cartilage or replacing missing structures. Once the new shape is achieved, the skin is redraped over the framework, the incisions are closed, and a splint is applied to the outside of the nose.

Q - How long does the surgery for revision rhinoplasty take to perform?
Revision rhinoplasty often takes about two hours to perform, though the surgery can take longer for more complicated procedures.

Q - Where are the incisions for revision rhinoplasty located?
Revision rhinoplasty may be performed with either a “closed” or “open” technique. With the closed technique, all incisions are confined to the inside of the nose. With the open technique, which is often preferred for more complicated cases and those treating the nasal tip, an additional small incision is made on the underside of the nose on the strip of skin separating the nostrils. Dr. Solieman and Dr. Litner are trained in both techniques.