Is Revision Rhinoplasty Painful?

While revision rhinoplasty involves some discomfort during recovery, most patients describe it as mild to moderate rather than severe. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Postoperatively, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion, but pain is well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. The level of discomfort often depends on the extent of the revision and the complexity of corrections needed. Most patients find that discomfort significantly subsides within the first week.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The number of appointments varies depending on the patient’s specific case. Generally, the process includes an initial consultation, a preoperative appointment, the surgery itself, and multiple post-operative follow-ups. Most patients have at least 3 to 5 appointments, with the first few occurring within the first month and additional check-ups scheduled at 3 months, 6 months, and one year post-surgery to monitor long-term healing. In some cases, additional visits may be necessary if complications arise or if the healing process requires further evaluation.

How Long Until I See Results?

Initial improvements are noticeable once the swelling begins to subside, typically within a few weeks to a couple of months. However, because revision rhinoplasty involves scar tissue and more delicate structural adjustments, full results can take 12 to 18 months to emerge fully. Swelling, especially in the nasal tip, may persist for an extended period, gradually resolving over time. Patience is essential, as the final outcome depends on the body’s natural healing process.

Can I Combine Revision Rhinoplasty With Other Procedures?

Yes, revision rhinoplasty can often be combined with other facial procedures, depending on the patient’s goals and overall health. Commonly paired treatments include chin augmentation (to improve facial balance), facial fat grafting (to restore volume), and eyelid surgery or a facelift for a more comprehensive transformation and to cut down on recovery time. Some patients also opt for septoplasty to improve breathing function or non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers for additional refinement. However, combining procedures increases surgical complexity, so a thorough consultation is necessary to determine the safest and most effective approach.

What Are the Risks Associated With Revision Rhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, revision rhinoplasty carries certain risks, including bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Because revision procedures involve working with scar tissue and previously altered nasal structures, additional risks include persistent swelling, prolonged healing, nasal asymmetry, difficulty breathing, or the need for further revisions. The complexity of the surgery makes choosing an experienced, highly specialized surgeon critical for minimizing risks. While complications are rare when performed by an expert, realistic expectations and careful post-operative care are essential for a successful outcome.

Washington, D.C.

Revision Rhinoplasty

Introduction to Rhinoplasty Revision in Washington, D.C.

A patient seeking a revision rhinoplasty in Washington, D.C., can have a combination of factors. One factor can be an aesthetic or cosmetic concern or the inability to breathe through the nose experienced after a primary rhinoplasty procedure.

Regardless of the reason, Dr. Somenek knows that this can be an emotional time filled with anxiety and hesitation. For that reason, Dr. Somenek believes that the consultation is of the utmost importance to discuss your concerns and help you get the desired results for your nose. Dr. Somenek’s expertise in rhinoplasty has led many to seek him out to treat some of the most challenging cases.

What is Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects mistakes from a previous rhinoplasty. While it may seem like a patient is simply having a second nose job, the surgery is slightly more complicated. Any plastic surgery procedure will produce excess scar tissue, particularly around the incision site. When re-performing that same procedure, it takes a highly skilled and trained surgeon to make revisions without disturbing the existing tissue and producing more prominent scarring.

Patients seek revisions to their original surgery most commonly because their results are uneven, warped, or simply not how they wanted them. Other reasons usually include functional and breathing problems. Dr. Somenek will typically customize a surgical approach to the individual since the procedure requires a high level of detail.

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Reasons for a Revision Rhinoplasty

In cases of revision rhinoplasty, Dr. Somenek frequently sees that many of the elements that provide structure to the nose have been over-resected during the initial nose surgery. This frequently leads to breathing problems for the patient, as much of the support has been altered.
Dr. Somenek believes in re-creating the structure of the nose to restore its integrity and function and improve breathing. He uses cartilage grafts to rebuild the structure of the nose to give a new, aesthetic shape that withstands the inevitable contraction of the nasal skin that can occur over the course of many years.

There is typically a paucity of nasal septal cartilage to use in cases of revision rhinoplasty. Because of this, Dr. Somenek has to obtain cartilage from either the ear or costal rib cartilage. The type of cartilage used will depend on the deformity that needs to be corrected. These options will be discussed with you at the time of the consultation. Dr. Somenek does not use artificial implants in the nose for revision rhinoplasty due to an increased risk of infection and extrusion of the artificial material.

In cases that Dr. Somenek feels are indicated, an open rhinoplasty approach is used. This involves making a small incision on the columella of the nose, which allows greater access to the nasal structures.

The open approach allows Dr. Somenek to better identify the patient’s concerns about their nose by directly visualizing the problem. By directly looking at the structures, Dr. Somenek can create symmetric changes to the nose, which maximizes the likelihood of a good cosmetic outcome. As with any incision, if closed correctly, the patient’s incisions will heal with very little evidence of a scar.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Revision Rhinoplasty?

Patients who are unhappy with the results of a previous rhinoplasty are typically candidates for revision rhinoplasty. For aesthetic reasons, they may be dealing with concerns such as tip asymmetry, nostril unevenness, a crooked bridge, or other issues. Functionally, patients may be experiencing breathing issues due to their original procedure and require a revision for medical purposes. Patients should have realistic expectations about the procedure, which can be set during a consultation with Dr. Somenek in Washington, D.C.

Your Consultation with Dr. Somenek

During the initial consultation, Dr. Somenek uses this time to understand your motivation and expectations for a revision rhinoplasty, also called secondary rhinoplasty. This consultation is an opportunity to develop mutual trust and understanding.

A detailed physical examination is performed to determine the areas of the nose that require correction to provide the best revision rhinoplasty results. Dr. Somenek will then go over a thorough list of expectations and risks involved in surgery.

Photos will be taken, and computer imaging will be performed using sophisticated imaging software to create a realistic outcome that is in line with the patient’s needs and desires. Dr. Somenek will explain the various structures in the nose, including bone and cartilage, and how sculpting these can alter the appearance of the nose.

Dr. Somenek believes that computer imaging provides the patient with a realistic potential outcome based on the patient’s individual anatomy and expectations. Looking at local revision rhinoplasty before-and-after photos can also help establish realistic expectations.

It is always beneficial for the patient to compile a list of questions to ask during the consultation, as this can clarify any concerns about the procedure and help better delineate if your expectations are in line with Dr. Somenek’s aesthetic goals for your nose.

Surgery and Recovery

Revision rhinoplasty surgery in Washington, D.C., is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Dr. Somenek will see you the following day to clean the area around the nostrils and ensure that you are doing well.

During revision rhinoplasty recovery, you will need to return for follow-up visits to ensure that healing is proceeding properly. At your one-week post-op visit, Dr. Somenek will remove the nasal cast and fine sutures that he uses to close the incision. It is important to realize that your nose will be swollen when the cast is removed. Dr. Somenek will place tape on the nose when necessary to decrease the overall amount of swelling.

The majority of swelling will resolve within 2 weeks. It is not uncommon in cases of revision rhinoplasty for the swelling to continue for a longer period of time due to the underlying changes that have occurred from previous surgery. For months following your surgery, you will continue to see changes and a more refined appearance to the nose.

Following Up with Dr. Somenek

It is imperative throughout the postoperative process that you follow the directions given by Dr. Somenek. Follow-up care is vital for this procedure to monitor healing, and it is essential to provide an optimal result.

Even though much of the swelling will decrease about two weeks postoperatively, the healing process will continue for many months after surgery. Persistent swelling of the nasal tip can occur in some patients, depending on their individual anatomy and the thickness of their skin.

Throughout the follow-up period, Dr. Somenek may recommend steroid injections into the nose or nasal taping to help resolve the swelling and produce the best outcome for his patients.
Occasionally, a minor revision to the nose is required, and if needed, the office will discuss it with the patient. Dr. Somenek looks forward to meeting you and working to provide the best aesthetic result to meet your needs.

How Much Does Revision Rhinoplasty Cost in Washington, D.C.?

The cost of Revision Rhinoplasty in Washington, D.C., will depend on how much correction is needed for the surgery. These costs also consider the surgery’s complexity, your surgeon’s expertise, facility, medication, and anesthesia fees. In cases of breathing issues, insurance often covers a portion of the cost, depending on your specific plan. We also offer financing solutions to make the procedure more accessible, but an exact cost estimate will be determined during your initial consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Somenek?

Dr. Somenek’s advanced expertise in the intricate anatomy of the face, head, and neck distinguishes him as a leading plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C. As a respected educator and trainer, he shares his knowledge with physicians nationwide, specializing in injectable treatments and consulting on complex cases that demand high precision. His approach to aesthetics emphasizes balance and proportion, creating refined enhancements that preserve each patient’s natural beauty. By focusing on facial harmony, Dr. Somenek ensures that every result is elegant, personalized, and never overdone.

Revision Rhinoplasty FAQ’S

While revision rhinoplasty involves some discomfort during recovery, most patients describe it as mild to moderate rather than severe. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so there is no pain during surgery. Postoperatively, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion, but pain is well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. The level of discomfort often depends on the extent of the revision and the complexity of corrections needed. Most patients find that discomfort significantly subsides within the first week.
The number of appointments varies depending on the patient’s specific case. Generally, the process includes an initial consultation, a preoperative appointment, the surgery itself, and multiple post-operative follow-ups. Most patients have at least 3 to 5 appointments, with the first few occurring within the first month and additional check-ups scheduled at 3 months, 6 months, and one year post-surgery to monitor long-term healing. In some cases, additional visits may be necessary if complications arise or if the healing process requires further evaluation.
Initial improvements are noticeable once the swelling begins to subside, typically within a few weeks to a couple of months. However, because revision rhinoplasty involves scar tissue and more delicate structural adjustments, full results can take 12 to 18 months to emerge fully. Swelling, especially in the nasal tip, may persist for an extended period, gradually resolving over time. Patience is essential, as the final outcome depends on the body’s natural healing process.
Yes, revision rhinoplasty can often be combined with other facial procedures, depending on the patient’s goals and overall health. Commonly paired treatments include chin augmentation (to improve facial balance), facial fat grafting (to restore volume), and eyelid surgery or a facelift for a more comprehensive transformation and to cut down on recovery time. Some patients also opt for septoplasty to improve breathing function or non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers for additional refinement. However, combining procedures increases surgical complexity, so a thorough consultation is necessary to determine the safest and most effective approach.
As with any surgery, revision rhinoplasty carries certain risks, including bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Because revision procedures involve working with scar tissue and previously altered nasal structures, additional risks include persistent swelling, prolonged healing, nasal asymmetry, difficulty breathing, or the need for further revisions. The complexity of the surgery makes choosing an experienced, highly specialized surgeon critical for minimizing risks. While complications are rare when performed by an expert, realistic expectations and careful post-operative care are essential for a successful outcome.

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Thank you for the fantastic experience.

I recently had a facial procedure at Somemek and Pittman Clinic, and I’m extremely happy with the results! The staff was very professional and supportive, guiding me through every step and ensuring I felt comfortable. The recovery was smooth, and I love how I look now. I highly recommend Dr. Pittman for anyone considering facial procedures. Thank you for the fantastic experience.

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Aubrey L.
I had spent years searching for the right doctor, and choosing Dr. Somenek was truly the best decision I could have made

Dr. Somenek is truly exceptional. From the very first consultation to the final results, the entire experience exceeded every expectation I had. His attention to detail, artistic eye, and deep understanding of facial harmony are unmatched.

Beyond the amazing results, the level of care and attention from both Dr. Somenek and his entire team was outstanding. He personally called me to check in after my procedure, and the team followed up as well to make sure I felt supported every step of the way. I felt completely cared for, and genuinely listened to throughout the entire process.

I had spent years searching for the right doctor, and choosing Dr. Somenek was truly the best decision I could have made. If you are looking for someone who is not only highly skilled but also a perfectionist who truly cares about his patients, I cannot recommend him enough.

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Dr. Pittman and his team are the best there is. He presented options to me I hadn’t even considered! After my initial consult I had more questions and they got me in swiftly and answered them all. The office, surgical suite and staff are 11/10. I felt safe and cared for. Dr Pittman even called me himself the next day to check in! On top of all of that, I couldn’t be happier with my results. I would recommend him to anyone. I had high expectations and they were exceeded at every turn.

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Discover The Difference

If you have further questions regarding revision rhinoplasty in Washington, D.C., please contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation. Skilled, double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Somenek will be happy to help you achieve the results you deserve.

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