What per cent of rhinoplasties require secondary operations? An outcome that you may consider unsatisfactory is not necessarily a reflection on your surgeon. Even the most expertly performed operation, by the most experienced surgeon, can never be perfect. Many experienced rhinoplasty surgeons agree that the outcome of the initial operation is about 80%-90% predictable. About 10-20% of patients nationally, may choose to have some secondary surgery.
Isn't the revision surgery really easier than the original surgery?
A minor revision to a scar, filing down a bit of bone to even out the profile, or injecting a filler like Radiesse into a small depression may be easier than the original procedure. However, if there are major cosmetic or functional issues that need to be addressed, the revision operation is frequently more difficult and challenging than the original operation. Every time you have nasal surgery, scar forms under the skin and around the cartilages of the nose. This scar can make the surgery more difficult. In addition, you may require cartilage grafts from you ears or elsewhere to properly revise your nose.
Is revision surgery worth doing, or should I just leave it alone?
Ultimately only you can make that decision. However, Dr. Bentkover usually can give you a realistic prediction with regard to his ability to correct the functional and cosmetic problems in your nose. He will not operate on you unless he really thinks he can improve you nose and that the surgery is "worth doing".
How do I know whether I will need a minor or major procedure on my nose?
Dr. Bentkover will carefully examine your nose and review your operative notes from the previous surgery. (That is why it is important to bring the notes to the consultation.) He will listen to you to determine what exactly is bothering you about your nose. Based on all this information, he generally can tell how complex a procedure you may need. Revision surgery, however, can have its surprises. Sometimes he may not know exactly what needs to be done until he is in the operation.
If my breathing is worse as a result of my previous surgery, will my insurance company cover the cost of the revision surgery?
Most insurance companies will cover functional surgery on your nose, whether or not it is a result of previous surgery. However, depending on your deductibles and the exact language in your policy, they may not cover the entire cost. They generally will not cover fees related to changing the appearance of your nose. Polices regarding nasal surgery vary from insurance company to insurance company. We will apply for approval for procedures related to nasal function, but we cannot guarantee they will provide coverage.
Will the revision surgery be more painful than the original surgery? Nasal pain should be about the same as the original surgery. If Dr. Bentkover needs to use cartilage grafts from your ears, that often is more tender than the nose after surgery. Our patients usually complain of little pain, but everyone has their own, personal pain threshold. We will provide appropriate amounts of pain medication.
