Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why do patients seek revision rhinoplasty?
Sometimes the reason for seeking a rhinoplasty revision may be a functional problem following a primary rhinoplasty procedure. In general, the functional issues may be experienced as ineffective breathing function, but may also manifest in other ways including chronic sinusitis, infections and sleep issues including sleep apnea, snoring and even problems related to eating and the teeth. Among these are nasal valve collapse, nasal stenosis deviated nasal septum or turbinate enlargement usually acquired from chronic allergic conditions.
What are some of the common aesthetic issues for seeking a revision rhinoplasty?
Whether accompanied by a breathing problem or not, often the patient is simply dissatisfied with the appearance of the nose. These aesthetic issues may be as a result of too little (under resection) or too much (over resection) of nasal tissue leaving bumps, turns, unevenness (asymmetry) and other deformities. These deformities may occur in the upper, middle or lower (tip) of the nasal structure. Among the most common of these are:
- Polly beak: Sometimes called a "parrot beak", this can occur when a hump on the bridge of the nose isn't sufficiently reduced in the area just behind the tip or when there's a build-up of scar tissue in this area that forces the tip of the nose in a downward direction.
- Inverted V: When a hump is reduced, sometimes the middle vault of the nose collapses inward, causing an "inverted V" appearance.
- Saddle Nose: Sometimes called a "boxer's nose" refers to the appearance of the nose after loss of support of the nasal vault with collapse. This deformity has been described after over-resection. Other causes of saddle nose deformity include septal hematoma, septal abscess, and severe nasal trauma.
- Pinched tip: When the tip of the nose appears pinched, it's often because too much tip cartilage was removed or the cartilage didn't heal well and collapsed. To correct this, cartilage is usually added to the nasal tip in a revision rhinoplasty procedure.
- The Hanging Columella: This is where the area between the nostrils (columella) can appear to hang down too much. Also, the rim of the nostrils can appear pulled back or retracted.
- Droopy or Ptotic Tip: This is when the tip of the nose appears to droop downward. It can be the result of over-resection during the primary rhinoplasty or a weakened columella.
- Pig’s Snout: Results from over resection and excessive shortening of the nose causing a turned up appearance to the nasal tip.
- Alar Retraction: If too much cartilage is removed from the walls of the nostrils, contraction from upward scarring may expose too much of the inside of the nostril. This is also associated with a pinched tip.
- Asymmetry: This may occur due to no fault of your surgeon. Post-operative scarring within the nose can cause it to appear uneven from one side to the other. The nose is a three-dimensional object that can heal in unpredictable ways.
- Bossa: A small callous or bump may appear on the dorsum up to one year following your procedure.
How do I know what needs to be done to my nose?
During your consultation, Dr. Binder will assess all aesthetic aspects related to potential changes in the shape to your nose. In addition your nose will be examined intra-nasally to address possible problems with breathing. No aspect of your nose will be overlooked during your consultation.
How can I schedule a consultation?
Call (310) 858-6749 or Email Us (link to quick contact form) for more information.
How long is recovery time for a surgical procedure? When can I go back to work?
Recovery time varies for each procedure. See our Surgical Procedures section to learn more about recovery times for specific procedures, or call us to schedule a consultation. With some surgeries you can be back at work after several days. More complicated operations may require additional time away from work.
How long will the post-operative results last?
Procedures that reshape or correct an imbalance such as surgery of the nose or chin can offer results that last a lifetime.
How significant are post-operative results? My friend had surgery and doesn’t look any different.
See the outstanding post-operative results for yourself! See the photo gallery and browse through the before and after photos of satisfied patients.
What kind of measures does Dr. Binder take to ensure privacy and confidentiality?
Patient privacy is very important in the field of plastic surgery. Our facilities include a separate private waiting room for discreet access to and from the office for patients who require extra privacy.
Does insurance cover my surgery?
Most of the time insurance does not cover elective cosmetic surgery. However some functional surgical procedures such as intranasal procedures to improve breathing, removal of skin cancers, scar revision and others may be covered by health insurance in part or in full. This is also dependent on your health insurance policy. Our staff will assist you with forms, verification, and submission of claims.
Are there special arrangements made for out of town patients?
Please see our section for "Out of Town Patients" in the Patient Information tab to learn more about the length of stay and hotels in the area. Normally, for most procedures, the length of stay will vary from 3 to 10 days. |
