Revision rhinoplasty is performed if the patient has had a previous rhinoplasty and is not satisfied with the appearance, he/she has or has breathing difficulties.
Revision operations are special cases that exceed a classical rhinoplasty. It is extremely important to understand the underlying anatomical problem and design the proper surgical procedure.
Breathing difficulty accompanied by structural defect suggests certain problems in the inner nasal structures. In order to understand the problem causing breathing difficulty, a detailed physical examination is necessary. In this examination, the septum, which is the central framework of the nose, intranasal conchas, inner air canals and the structure of the inner cover are evaluated. A serious deviation in the septum, any growth in the conchas or obstruction in the inner air canals may be the cause of breathing difficulty.
Another importance of inner nasal examination in revision rhinoplasty is to understand the presence of a sufficient cartilage stock. If the septum cartilage is mostly preserved in the first operation, the amount of the cartilage would be sufficient for the revision operation. However, if the amount of the cartilage is not sufficient, cartilage transfer from another region may be necessary.
There are two different sources of the body that provide cartilage for transfer: the ear and the rib. If a small and soft piece is needed, ear cartilage would be sufficient. If a larger, steady, and plain piece is needed, a rib could be used.
To obtain cartilage from the ear, an incision is made from the back curve of the ear, and no scar is left in a visualized area. When the proper technique is used, obtaining cartilage from the ear does not lead to any deformation.
To obtain cartilage from the rib, an incision is made from the lower mammary region, which also hides the scar from sight. When the proper technique is used, obtaining cartilage from the rib does not lead to any complication concerning the lungs.
In order to avoid poor recovery of the tissues due to subsequent operations, a minimum of 1 year should have passed from your first surgery.
