Revision Surgery: Where to Begin If You’re Unhappy With Results From a Previous Surgery

revision facial plastic surgery

You looked forward to your plastic surgery procedure for months. You talked with your plastic surgeon numerous times and thought they had a good idea of what you wanted. But, after the bandages came off and the swelling and bruising diminished, the results were not what you expected…not even close!

If this sounds all too familiar, you may want to consider revision surgery. Revision surgery aims to correct or enhance the results from your original surgical procedure. 

Who Should I Go to for Revision Surgery?

This is a personal question that really only you can answer. Some people opt to go to their original surgeon for revisions because it can cost less. Others choose to go to a different surgeon to get a new perspective and hopefully better results. You have to think about what you want to accomplish and who you think can make that happen.

If you will be using a new surgeon, get as much information as possible. Ask to see before and after photos, preferably of surgeries like yours. Your new surgeon should tell you upfront whether or not a revision surgery will work for you. If a surgeon tells you that revision surgery is not a good idea, you have the right to get a second opinion. But, if the next surgeon agrees, you should respect the decision and not opt for the surgery.

revision facial plastic surgery

Reasons to Have Revision Surgery

While not being pleased with the results of your plastic surgery is reason enough to want revision surgery, it’s also important to look at other factors.

Was the surgeon inexperienced or not clear on your goals?

If this sounds like your situation, you may want to choose another surgeon for your revisions. If you weren’t on the same page the first time, it may be difficult to get on the same page moving forward.

Did your wounds heal properly?

Poor healing can lead some people to revision surgery. If wounds don’t heal properly they can leave unsightly marks.

Did your aesthetic goals change?

The plastic surgeon may have done everything you asked for and done it well but, now your goals have changed. If this is the case, you may want to go back under the knife to try to achieve your new goals.

Did your surgery impact a function?

This is sometimes the case with rhinoplasty. The outcome may impact breathing function. This leads many people to seek revision surgery to restore their breathing function properly. 

Common Types of Revision Surgery

While everyone’s reasons for getting revision surgery may differ, there are several common types of revision surgery.

Facelift Revision

The first result may look unnatural or there may be continued sagging below your chin or jawline.

Rhinoplasty

There may be an impact on breathing function as mentioned above or the outcome may not be as symmetrical as you hoped.

Facial Implants

Some people want them removed completely while others want to change the size or shape.

Scar Revision Surgery

Some people look to get surgery on a scar that didn’t heal properly. This can be complex because it involves trying to hide the scar so that it isn’t as noticeable. The outcome will depend on the location and size of the scar.

Are There Risks Involved With Revision Surgery?

Revision surgery can be more complicated than the initial surgery. There is likely scar tissue in the area that will need to be revisited. Scar tissue is more difficult to work with than your natural skin. Also, in some cases, there may not be enough tissue or cartilage left to work with. These are all issues that you need to consider before deciding on revision surgery.

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