Revision Rhinoplasty

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and Scottsdale, AZ

*Scottsdale Plastics no longer offers revision rhinoplasty procedures

A revision rhinoplasty is a cosmetic treatment that corrects the results of a previous rhinoplasty. (1)

The nose plays a central role in shaping overall facial harmony, and when a rhinoplasty does not deliver the expected outcome, the disappointment can feel deeply discouraging. Patients may experience lingering cosmetic issues, new breathing difficulties, or structural changes that disrupt both appearance and function. Revision rhinoplasty offers a second chance to achieve balance, restore function, and refine aesthetics in the nasal region. It is a highly individualized treatment that addresses both subtle and complex concerns stemming from earlier procedures.

With the leadership and expertise of Dr. Robert Bonillas, the team at Scottsdale Plastics provides precision, artistry, and patient-centered care in numerous treatments. With extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive nasal surgery, Dr. Bonillas combines advanced surgical techniques with a compassionate approach. Dr. Bonillas designs every revision rhinoplasty to resolve complications, restore natural proportions, and create results that feel both beautiful and authentic.

If you are considering revision rhinoplasty to correct functional issues or enhance your appearance, schedule your consultation today by contacting Scottsdale Plastics online or by calling (480) 245-6380.

About Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty, sometimes called secondary rhinoplasty, treats patients who have already undergone one or more nasal surgeries. Unlike a primary rhinoplasty, which reshapes the nose for the first time, revision rhinoplasty deals with scar tissue, altered anatomy, and compromised structures. This makes the surgery more complex and requires specialized expertise.

Patients seek revision rhinoplasty for a wide range of reasons. Some experience dissatisfaction with cosmetic results, such as asymmetry, a crooked nasal bridge, or a tip that does not align with their original goals. Others develop functional complications, including breathing difficulties caused by collapsed nasal passages or poorly healed structures. In many cases, patients face both cosmetic and functional concerns.

Dr. Bonillas approaches revision rhinoplasty with a dual focus on form and function. His surgical planning emphasizes restoring symmetry, improving proportions, and ensuring that patients can breathe comfortably. Because every revision case is unique, he customizes every procedure to the individual patient’s anatomy and concerns.

Types of Revision Rhinoplasty

Dr. Bonillas can perform revision rhinoplasty using different techniques, depending on the extent of correction needed. These include:

  • Open Revision Rhinoplasty: Involves lifting the nasal skin through a small incision at the columella for complete visibility of the nasal framework. This approach is best for complex revisions that require structural grafting or major reshaping. (2)
  • Closed Revision Rhinoplasty: Uses only internal incisions, with no external scar. This method is appropriate for smaller adjustments, refinements, or corrections where the need for structural work is minimal.
  • Reconstructive Revision Rhinoplasty: Addresses cases where prior surgeries cause significant tissue loss or structural collapse. This may involve cartilage grafting from the septum, ear, or rib to rebuild support and restore natural contours.

Dr. Bonillas selects the approach most suitable for each patient after carefully evaluating nasal structure, scar tissue, and overall goals.

Benefits of Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty can dramatically improve both the appearance and function of the nose, making this procedure advantageous in various ways. Patients who undergo this procedure often experience benefits such as:

  • Improved nasal shape and contour
  • Correction of asymmetry or irregularities from prior surgery
  • Restoration of proper nasal airflow and improved breathing
  • Reduced visible scarring or more discreet placement of incisions
  • Enhanced balance between the nose and other facial features
  • Strengthened nasal support
  • Relief from nasal obstruction or discomfort
  • Renewed self-confidence and satisfaction with appearance

To discover how revision rhinoplasty can address your specific concerns, schedule a consultation with Scottsdale Plastics online or by calling (480) 245-6380.

Ideal Candidates

Revision rhinoplasty is usually appropriate for patients who meet certain criteria. You may be an ideal candidate for revision rhinoplasty if you:

  • Are dissatisfied with the cosmetic results of a previous rhinoplasty
  • Experience breathing difficulties or nasal obstruction after prior surgery
  • Have visible irregularities, asymmetry, or collapse of the nasal structure
  • Are in good overall health and can safely undergo surgery
  • Do not smoke or are willing to stop nicotine use before and after surgery
  • Have realistic expectations about what revision surgery can achieve
  • Have allowed at least 12 months for healing since your initial rhinoplasty

Personal Consultation

During your initial personal consultation, Dr. Bonillas will carefully review your surgical history, listen to your concerns, and perform a detailed examination of your nose. This includes evaluating nasal structure, skin thickness, scar tissue, and breathing function. He will take the time to answer all of your questions and explain the available surgical approaches.

Based on this evaluation, Dr. Bonillas will design a personalized treatment plan for your anatomy and desired outcomes. This plan may include grafting, reshaping, or reconstruction, depending on the extent of correction needed. You will leave the consultation with a clear understanding of what the procedure entails and what to expect throughout the process.

To begin planning your revision rhinoplasty with Dr. Bonillas, schedule a consultation online or call (480) 245-6380 today.

Preparation

Dr. Bonillas will provide a customized list of preoperative instructions to ensure you are fully prepared for your surgery. Preparation may include:

  • Avoiding medications or supplements with blood-thinning properties
  • Discontinuing nicotine use to promote healing
  • Limiting alcohol in the weeks before surgery
  • Completing any necessary medical evaluations or lab work
  • Arranging for transportation and aftercare support
  • Preparing a comfortable recovery area at home

Following these guidelines closely will help minimize risks and potentially maximize results.

Procedure

Dr. Bonillas performs revision rhinoplasty with the patient under either general anesthesia or sedation, depending on the complexity of the case and patient circumstances. Dr. Bonillas will determine your anesthesia plan and rhinoplasty technique during your personal consultation. In more complex cases, he will use an open approach to lift the nasal skin and gain full access to underlying structures. This enables precise reshaping of cartilage and bone. When reconstruction is necessary, Dr. Bonillas may use cartilage grafts from the septum, ear, or rib to restore strength and stability. For less extensive corrections, he may use a closed approach, keeping all incisions inside the nostrils.

Throughout the procedure, Dr. Bonillas takes great care to create results that enhance both aesthetics and function. After he makes the necessary adjustments, he will carefully close incisions, and he may place a nasal splint to support the new structure during initial healing.

Recovery

Because this is a surgical procedure, recovery from a revision rhinoplasty requires patience and close adherence to postoperative instructions, which Dr. Bonillas will provide after your procedure. You can expect some swelling, bruising, congestion, and mild discomfort in the first week. Cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication can help manage these effects, and if necessary, Dr. Bonillas can prescribe medications to increase your comfort.

Most patients return to light activities within 10 to 14 days, but they will need to avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks. Dr. Bonillas will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your recovery plan. While some improvements are visible within weeks, final results may take up to a year as swelling gradually subsides and tissues settle.

Results

Revision rhinoplasty offers patients the opportunity to achieve the refined, natural-looking results they originally sought. Improvements in both breathing function and nasal appearance can significantly enhance patients’ quality of life. Dr. Bonillas’ expertise ensures results that harmonize with your overall facial balance. Patients often report increased self-confidence and relief from functional concerns such as breathing difficulties.

Corresponding Procedures

Some patients choose to combine revision rhinoplasty with additional treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation. Scottsdale Plastics offers many different treatments that can enhance the results of revision rhinoplasty, including eyelid surgery, brow lifts, or facelifts. Dr. Bonillas will be happy to discuss your combination possibilities during your consultation.

Cost of Revision Rhinoplasty in Scottsdale

The cost of revision rhinoplasty varies depending on numerous factors, including the complexity of the case, the surgical technique Dr. Bonillas uses, and whether you require cartilage grafting. During your consultation, Dr. Bonillas will provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan. Scottsdale Plastics also offers financing options to qualifying patients, making it easier to pursue the results you want.

Schedule a consultation today to explore the cost of your revision rhinoplasty. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our office at (480) 245-6380.

FAQ

What is revision rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is a corrective nasal surgery that improves the results of a prior rhinoplasty, addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns.

How long should I wait before getting a revision?

We advise most patients to wait at least 12 months after their original rhinoplasty to allow full healing before considering revision.

Will I need cartilage grafts?

Dr. Bonillas will determine if you need cartilage grafts during your consultation.

How long is the recovery process after revision rhinoplasty?

Initial recovery typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, though final results can take several months to a year to fully develop.

Is revision rhinoplasty more complex than primary rhinoplasty?

Yes. Scar tissue, altered anatomy, and previous surgical changes make revision rhinoplasty more challenging, which is why choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Bonillas is essential.

Will there be visible scars from revision rhinoplasty?

Open revision rhinoplasty may leave a small scar under the columella, but it usually heals discreetly. Closed revision techniques leave no external scars.

Can revision rhinoplasty improve breathing?

Yes. Many patients seek revision specifically to correct breathing problems caused by collapsed nasal passages or structural irregularities from prior surgeries.

References

  1. Jiang A, Chamata ES, Bressler FJ. Revision Rhinoplasty: With Introduction of a Novel Preoperative Assessment Classification System. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2021;35(02):078-087. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0041-1727271
  2. Fichman M, Piedra Buena IT. Rhinoplasty. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/
  3. Azzawi SA, Kidd T, Shoaib T. Closed Rhinoplasty: A Single Surgeon Experience of 238 Cases over 2 Years. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery. Published online August 6, 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s12070-020-01990-y
  4. Anco N, Caballero GC, Valverde K, José Nuñez. Decision-making in Nasal Dorsum Reconstruction in Revision Rhinoplasty. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2024;12(9):e6139-e6139. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000006139