Revision rhinoplasty is a complex and delicate surgery that requires careful planning and execution. It is a procedure used to correct the results of a previous primary rhinoplasty, or nose job, to improve the appearance of the nose.
This secondary procedure can involve the use of cartilage grafts to correct any structural issues caused by the previous surgery. Cartilage grafts are used to rebuild the nose and improve its shape and function. In some cases, these grafts may be necessary to address breathing difficulties that were caused by the previous surgery.
It is important to discuss any potential breathing difficulties with your surgeon before undergoing Los Angeles revision rhinoplasty, as this will help them determine if a cartilage graft is necessary for your procedure.
The healing process for revision rhinoplasty can be more complicated than with primary surgery due to scar tissue from the previous procedure. For a successful recovery, it is important to avoid certain activities during your revision rhinoplasty recovery period.
1. Excessive Movement and Exercise
Excessive movement of the face and neck around the operated areas should be avoided for up to 6 weeks after revision rhinoplasty surgery. Even if you feel well enough to move, activities such as lifting heavy objects can cause excessive stress on the sutures from your procedure, leading to complications or even reoperation.
Avoid intense strenuous activities such as exercise during the initial weeks of your nose revision surgery, as it can put unnecessary strain on the tissue and cause complications. Wait at least 6 weeks before beginning any type of exercise routine and ensure that your surgeon has given you clearance to do so before beginning any type of activity.
Once your Beverly Hills revision rhinoplasty surgeon has given you the go-ahead to resume light activities, it is important to take it slow and gradually increase your activity level. Normal activities such as walking or light jogging can be resumed after a few weeks of recovery.
However, if you had an extensive procedure involving grafts or reshaping of the nasal bones, it may take longer for swelling to subside and for you to be able to return to normal activities. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when you can resume normal activities. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to have a successful recovery from revision rhinoplasty surgery.
2. Bending Over or Tilting Your Head Back
Bending down or tilting your head back excessively at any point during your recovery could stretch the incision line and increase the risk of scarring. Additionally, these movements can cause increased swelling, discomfort, and prolonged recovery time which is why it’s best avoided until directed by your revision rhinoplasty surgeon.
3. Sleeping Face-Down
To ensure successful revision rhinoplasty recovery, it’s essential never to sleep face-down since it can affect how well scarring heals. Increased pressure on areas that are still healing internally may lead to further issues in the nasal structure healing.
During revision rhinoplasty, the nasal septum might be addressed to correct any functional issues. In some cases, a cartilage graft may be necessary to improve the shape and function of the nose. Nasal swelling can occur both internally and externally due to incisions made during the procedure. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and sleep in the right position to get a successful outcome.
4. Wearing Contacts
Postoperative contact lenses should be avoided during the first couple weeks after a revision rhinoplasty Los Angeles because they may adversely affect healing. Attempting to place them in an area with sensitive structures could damage delicate nerves and result in dry eyes or decreased sensation in that area which can impair proper healing of the nose tissue.
5. Excessive Touching or Cleaning
You must be careful not to touch, pick or squeeze any sore spots around your nose during the recovery process as this can cause irritation or even worse, disrupt the breathing passages around your nose area and compromise healing times for very unfortunate results in some cases! It’s normal for mild swelling and bruises under the eyes so don’t feel tempted to treat them by rubbing or poking them with anything! Furthermore, do not clean or wash inside your nostrils – leave this part completely up to your doctor.
6. Sun Exposure
Direct sunlight should be avoided throughout rhinoplasty recovery as it can increase inflammation, cause scabs and dry skin, and even interfere with some medications prescribed during this time. Wear a hat or use an umbrella whenever possible to keep the sun’s rays from directly hitting the nose area.
7. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking should be strictly avoided, especially during the revision rhinoplasty recovery process since smoking decreases circulation and delays healing time for wounds due to the presence of nicotine and other toxins present in cigarette smoke.
Alcohol consumption should also be avoided until after full recovery from your revision rhinoplasty procedure, as alcohol reduces overall healing speed by interfering with normal blood circulation levels within our bodies which can lead to scarring, infections, slow/imbalanced growth of new tissue lines, and other mishaps that may damage your newly constructed nose structure.
Los Angeles revision rhinoplasty patients should follow their doctor’s instructions to avoid poor healing results and take any prescribed pain medications as directed. Pain medications can help reduce discomfort during the rhinoplasty recovery process and make sure that the revision procedure is successful.
8. Wearing a Cast/Splint Too Long
The cast/splint worn over the nose should only stay for a certain amount of time based on recommendations from your plastic surgeon and generally no longer than two weeks after surgery so as not to risk further harming or delaying the re-construction process of one’s nose structure post-surgery; thus it’s important to not keep this cast/splint in place for too long or else you risk circulatory blockage or infection due to a lack effective airflow.
When considering a revision rhinoplasty, it is important to find a skilled surgeon who has experience in performing nose surgeries. Secondary rhinoplasty is more complex than primary or original rhinoplasty as it involves reshaping the soft tissues and addressing any nasal obstructions that may have occurred due to the initial surgery.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions during the recovery period to ensure successful healing and avoid any potential complications. With proper care and attention, you can be sure that your Beverly Hills rhinoplasty revision will be successful and you will be able to enjoy the results of your procedure for many years to come.
Schedule a Revision Rhinoplasty consultation with us
If you are a candidate for revision rhinoplasty and looking for experienced surgeons to help you achieve the desired results, then look no further! Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Swartout is here to provide you with an initial consultation and discuss the cost of your revision rhinoplasty procedure. We understand that each patient’s original procedure is unique and requires special attention, so we strive to provide personalized care tailored to your individual needs. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and get started on your journey toward the best revision rhinoplasty in Los Angeles.
