Is it possible that the NHS will fund a revision operation due to the mistake made?

Your questions answered by our surgeon, Lucian Ion, FRCS(Plast)

Asked on 21 August 2010

Question

I had a septorhinoplasty operation 5 weeks ago under the nhs due to a deviated septum and a small hump on my nasal bridge.

Before the operation i made it clear to the ENT surgeon that I didn't want the front structure of my nose to change, I just wanted the nose to look the same but just straighter from the side angle. The surgeon had told me that the structure wouldn't be affected and that the hump would be removed by rasping.

Now my nose looks much more bigger, and my nostrils and nasal bridge are wider. I am only 18 and i just want my old nose back. Is it possible that the NHS will fund a revision operation due to the mistake made?

Answer

I would first say that it is too early to know whether the shape of the nose will be wider in the long term. At present, it is very swollen and if the skin of your nasal tip is thicker, it takes longer to settle down.

Do discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but I am sure he will make a similar comment at this stage.

In about 3-4 months, it will become clearer regarding the shape, but really it takes over 1 year for the shape to stabilise.

The NHS will look at correcting a problem if it occurred, but more likely with the same surgeon or a colleague within the NHS.

Mr Lucian Ion FRCS(Plast)
129 Harley Street
London
W1G 6BA