Revision rhinoplasty in Istanbul: correcting previous results

What is revision rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty (secondary rhinoplasty) is a surgical procedure performed on a nose that has already undergone one or more previous rhinoplasty operations. The goals may include correcting asymmetry, breathing problems, an over-resected bridge, a pinched tip, visible irregularities, or an unnatural overall appearance.

Revision cases are inherently more complex because the surgeon must work with altered anatomy — scar tissue, weakened cartilage, and changed structural support from the previous surgery.

Can revision rhinoplasty be done with the closed technique?

Yes. Many revision cases can be successfully performed using the closed (endonasal) approach, depending on the extent of the previous surgery and the corrections needed. Dr. Erdal evaluates each revision case individually through detailed photo analysis and, when appropriate, CT imaging.

The closed approach offers the same advantages in revision as in primary rhinoplasty: no external scar, less tissue disruption, preserved blood supply to the nasal skin, and faster recovery. This is particularly beneficial in revision cases where the skin has already been compromised by a previous open approach.

Common reasons for revision rhinoplasty

• Over-resection of the dorsum — scooped or "ski-slope" profile from excessive hump removal
• Pinched nasal tip — caused by over-aggressive tip cartilage trimming
• Asymmetry — uneven nostrils, crooked bridge, or tip deviation
• Breathing obstruction — internal valve collapse or persistent septal deviation
• Visible irregularities — bumps, depressions, or visible graft edges
• Unnatural appearance — a result that does not match the patient's facial proportions
• Pollybeak deformity — fullness above the tip creating a parrot-beak profile

The revision rhinoplasty process

1. Detailed assessment

Send front, profile, and three-quarter photos via WhatsApp or the contact form. Dr. Erdal personally reviews every case and identifies specific issues to address. Previous operative reports are helpful if available.

2. Timing

Revision rhinoplasty should typically wait at least 12 months after the primary surgery. This allows swelling to fully resolve and tissues to stabilize, enabling accurate assessment and planning.

3. Surgery

Duration is typically 2–3 hours under general anaesthesia. The procedure may involve cartilage grafting (using septal, ear, or rib cartilage), structural reinforcement, and precise reshaping of the existing framework.

4. Recovery

Recovery follows a similar timeline to primary rhinoplasty, though swelling may take slightly longer to resolve. Splint removal at day 7, fly home at 7–14 days, social presentability at 2–3 weeks. See the full recovery timeline.

How to choose a surgeon for revision rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty demands higher surgical skill than primary rhinoplasty. Key factors to evaluate include:

• International board certifications (FACS, FEBOPRAS)
• High volume of revision cases specifically
• Peer-reviewed publications on rhinoplasty technique
• Before-and-after portfolio including revision cases
• Direct communication with the surgeon (not through agents)
• Ministry of Health International Health Tourism Authorization