CONVENIENTLY LOCATED TO SERVE TROY,
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People may opt to reshape their noses for several reasons. Some of these reasons may be medical and others aesthetic. Whatever their motivation, a successful rhinoplasty is an effective way to correct a misshapen nose.

Generally, most patients are happy with the results of their nasal reconstruction. But in some rare cases, problems can crop up, one of them being saddle nose. To correct this and other issues, revision rhinoplasty is required.

What Is a Saddle Nose Deformity?

The shape of the nose is the result of the proportions of the nasal bones, cartilage, and connective tissues. The bridge of the nose is supported by two structures: the nasal bones (in the top third of the nose) and the upper set of cartilages (in the middle third of the nose).

Sometimes, due to disease, injury, or surgery, the bones or cartilages are damaged. The bridge loses its support and collapses inward. The result is a nasal bridge with a depression in the middle-third portion that makes it look like a horse saddle. That is why this condition is called a saddle nose deformity.

It is also called boxer’s nose, as it is seen very commonly among boxers due to the repeated impact injuries they are prone to receiving on the nose. In certain cases, it causes the tip of the nose to have a small upturn, so it may also be called a pug nose.

A saddle nose can have a strong emotional impact on a patient, making them depressed or self-conscious. It can also cause difficulty in breathing normally.

Though many patients develop saddle noses due to accidents or diseases, a rhinoplasty failure can also cause it. It can be triggered when an attempt to reduce the height of the nose results in accidental damage to the nasal bones or over-reduction of cartilage. It can also occur if the healing process after surgery does not progress well. In such cases, it is important to remember that this may not be the original plastic surgeon’s fault; proper healing is often a process that is not under their complete control.

Revision Rhinoplasty to Correct Saddle Nose

It is understandable that patients may feel uncomfortable with the idea of repairing the damage caused by one nasal surgery with another. However, this is the only permanent solution to this problem.

Experts suggest that it is better to wait for a while before undergoing the next surgery. Waiting gives the scar tissue time to soften and the swelling time to go down completely, which will in turn help the surgeon correctly judge the condition and make accurate revisions.

As saddle nose is caused by damage or excess removal of the supporting cartilage or bone, adding a support structure is an effective solution. Revision is generally done by harvesting cartilage from areas like the ribcage or ear, carefully shaping it, and then grafting it into the structure of the nose.

Ideal Candidates for Saddle Nose Revision Rhinoplasty

Ideal candidates for saddle nose revision rhinoplasty have recovered from their past rhinoplasty procedure for more than one year. Healthy individuals who have realistic goals are excellent candidates for revision rhinoplasty. Non-smokers are preferred, and smokers must quit before the date of surgery.

Your Consultation

Correcting a saddle nose with revision rhinoplasty will require a consultation. You will discuss your concerns about the results of your first rhinoplasty surgery with Dr. Compton, along with your goals for your revision rhinoplasty.

Your medical records—especially those of the original rhinoplasty surgery—will be closely evaluated, and your present nose aesthetics will be carefully examined. Photographs may be taken as a reference.

Based on the physical exam and your realistic goals, our surgeon will personalize a treatment plan and schedule your procedure.

The Procedure

Revision rhinoplasty usually takes around two to four hours, which is longer than traditional rhinoplasty procedures due to the complexity of the procedure. Anesthesia will be administered to the patient to ensure a pain-free surgery.

Before any alterations are made to the nose, a bone or cartilage graft will be harvested and shaped. Small incisions will be made (most likely a single incision across the columella), and the skin of the nose will be lifted.

The graft will be sewn in to create new support, any other corrections will be made in the nose structure depending on the treatment plan. The incisions will be closed with sutures after completing these corrections.

What is recovery Like?

In the nose area, temporary bruising and swelling can be observed in the first few weeks after the procedure. Specific instructions and prescriptions will be provided to make the recovery process comfortable for the patient.

The patient will have to visit Dr. Compton for a follow-up appointment to check on the healing process of the nose.

The Cost of Correcting a Saddle Nose Deformity With Revision Rhinoplasty

The cost of revision rhinoplasty varies according to the treatment plan. The grafting procedure also impacts the overall price of the surgery. Contact your insurance provider to find out if the cost of your revision surgery will be covered.

Speaking with Dr. Compton

A reconstructive procedure requires a lot of skill and expertise, so it is critical that you choose the right surgeon for the job. Dr. Andrew Compton is an experienced facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with numerous satisfied patients. Meet with Dr. Compton during a consultation to find out more. To schedule your consultation, contact us today.