Rhinoplasty Revision

At our boutique Chicago practice, we recommend a revision rhinoplasty if you have any of the following characteristics:

• A deviated septum or limited ability to breathe through your nose
• Damaged tissue from a previous rhinoplasty procedure
• Uneven size and/or shape of the nose

You may be a good candidate for a rhinoplasty revision in Chicago if you want the following:

• Want to alter the size and shape of your nose
• Want to make changes to various parts of the nose
• Be generally healthy enough for surgery
• Have realistic expectations about what a rhinoplasty can provide
• Be able to take several days off of work while the nose heals
• Want to address specific functional or breathing problems in the nose
• Want the nose to draw less attention to itself

If you think you’re a good candidate for secondary nose reshaping surgery, contact Dr. Ogilvie’s offices to schedule a consultation.

On the day of your rhinoplasty revision surgery, you will meet with Dr. Ogilvie to review your procedure again after you arrive at the surgical center. You will then be administered anesthesia to make you comfortable throughout the surgery.

Dr. Ogilvie will begin by making the incisions, either inside the nostrils (closed approach) or across the columella (open approach), depending on the complexity of the procedure and the corrections needed. Once the incisions are made, he will carefully lift the skin and soft tissue to access the underlying nasal structures, which include the cartilage and bone. This is how Dr. Ogilvie can reshape and rearrange the existing nasal cartilage to improve its symmetry, projection, and nasal tip definition.

In some cases, revision surgery may involve reconstructing or reinforcing the nasal septum to address breathing problems or correct previous septal deviations. Cartilage grafting is often required in rhinoplasty revision, and additional cartilage from the septum, ear, or rib may be harvested to achieve an optimal result. 

Once the desired changes are made, Dr. Ogilvie will close the incisions with sutures. A nasal splint may be placed to support the nasal structures, minimize swelling, and protect the surgical site during the initial healing period.

As an outpatient procedure, you can return home the same day as your surgery. You can expect to experience some swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the nose and face. Our post-surgical team will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including how to care for your nose, manage discomfort, and minimize swelling. You must rest, keep your head elevated, and avoid laborious activities to allow your body to heal.

You may also need to wear a nasal splint or bandage to support and protect your nose as it heals. The initial swelling and bruising typically subside within the first few weeks, and the remaining swelling can take one to two years to go away before your final rhinoplasty revision results become apparent.

For the first three or four weeks, you should avoid any activities that may elevate your blood pressure, such as vigorous exercise, lifting, or straining. Your recovery will be monitored over the next few months. During this time, our team will be able to better inform you when they feel it’s safe to gradually resume your normal routine. 

You should continue to wear nasal protection when performing intense activities to maintain the integrity and protection of your nose.