Primary rhinoplasty refers to a patient's first nose surgery — working with cartilage, bone, and skin that haven't been surgically altered before. This generally gives Dr. Kim more predictable tissue to work with and a wider range of technique options, since there's no scar tissue or previous implant to navigate around.
Revision rhinoplasty, by contrast, works with a nose that's already been operated on — meaning some combination of scar tissue, altered cartilage structure, or a previous implant needs to be assessed and worked around, often with less native cartilage available. This is why revision cases generally require a more experienced surgeon and, frequently, rib cartilage to provide adequate support.
Consultation Tip
If you've had any previous nasal surgery, even a minor one, be sure to mention it during your consultation — it changes the technical approach even if it doesn't feel significant to you.
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— Dr. Hyung-taek Kim, KOWON Plastic Surgery