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When Your First Rhinoplasty Falls Short—We’re Here to Make It Right

A rhinoplasty should bring you closer to your ideal appearance, not further from it. But when the results of a previous nose surgery fall short—whether due to aesthetic dissatisfaction, functional issues, or both—revision rhinoplasty may be the solution. At Cheng Plastic Surgery in San Mateo and Palo Alto, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons, Drs. Jacqueline and Elbert Cheng, specialize in complex nasal revisions that restore both form and function, with compassion, expertise, and a dedication to getting it right the second time.

What Is Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is a highly intricate, secondary nasal surgery designed to correct complications or undesired outcomes from a prior rhinoplasty. It requires meticulous skill, surgical precision, and aesthetic sensitivity, often involving scar tissue, altered anatomy, and compromised structural support.

Our surgeons approach each revision with personalized care and a deep understanding of nasal anatomy, breathing mechanics, and facial harmony, ensuring that your final result looks natural, functions correctly, and reflects your true goals.

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When to Consider Revision Rhinoplasty

It’s essential to give your initial rhinoplasty time to heal fully. The nose can take up to a year or more to settle, and early judgments can be misleading. However, if you’re still unhappy after 12 months, revision rhinoplasty may be appropriate. Common reasons to seek revision:

  • Pinched or collapsed nasal tip
  • Asymmetry or imbalance
  • Over-resection of cartilage or bone
  • Nasal valve collapse affects breathing
  • Poor cosmetic outcome
  • Obstructed airways or nasal congestion
  • Incomplete or under-corrected changes
  • Visible or excessive scarring

Whether your concerns are functional, cosmetic, or both, our team will carefully evaluate your anatomy and create a tailored plan to resolve them.

“I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for any procedure.”

Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

SUCH a great experience with Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jackie Cheng. Everyone at the practice is so nice to work with, helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I was well informed p...

SUCH a great experience with Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jackie Cheng. Everyone at the practice is so nice to work with, helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I was well informed prior to the procedures received. There were no surprises and everyone at the practice ensured I had everything I needed. Healing was such a smooth experience because of all the prep provided. I could not be happier with the results. Thank you Dr. J and Dr. E and everyone at the practice!!

by S.T.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Teresa did an absolutely amazing job on my eyebrow tattoo removal! I flew all the way from Vegas to see her and it was the best decision ever! From the consultation, to the actu...

Teresa did an absolutely amazing job on my eyebrow tattoo removal! I flew all the way from Vegas to see her and it was the best decision ever! From the consultation, to the actual procedure, she was super thorough and walked me through each step of the process! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

by M.V.

The result looks very natural

I had a double eyelid revision on one eye with Dr. Elbert Cheng to correct asymmetry from previous surgeries performed by other surgeons. The consultation with Dr. Cheng felt th...

I had a double eyelid revision on one eye with Dr. Elbert Cheng to correct asymmetry from previous surgeries performed by other surgeons. The consultation with Dr. Cheng felt thorough and reassuring, and I appreciated that the entire process from pre-op to post-op was clearly explained, accompanied by scheduled appointments. I also received post-op care instructions, which I believe helped speed up the recovery process. What truly amazed me was that I experienced no bruising at all, which is something I’ve never had with any of my previous surgeries. In the past, I always bruised, so I was impressed by Dr. Cheng’s skill. It’s been 6 months since the surgery and the fold height is now much closer to my other eye. The result looks very natural. Highly recommend Dr. Cheng to anyone considering eyelid surgery!

by E.O.

Great experience with staff and procedure

Great experience with staff and procedure. I got upper blepharoplasty done in Sept with Dr. Elbert Cheng. From day one the staff was kind and very helpful. During my consu...

Great experience with staff and procedure. I got upper blepharoplasty done in Sept with Dr. Elbert Cheng. From day one the staff was kind and very helpful. During my consultation with Dr. Cheng he was so informative and kind, great bed side manner. He was honest when I asked about other surgeries stating that I didn’t need them at this time, and gave great feedback as to why I didn’t need it and why I should wait. I love my results and healed very quickly. All in all a great doctor who is experienced and very knowledgeable in his field.

by K.S.

One of the best decisions in my life

Long overdue review. Back in November 2023 I got chin lipo from Elbert Cheng - one of the best decisions in my life.

I was 34 at the time. I had the most stubborn double ...

Long overdue review. Back in November 2023 I got chin lipo from Elbert Cheng - one of the best decisions in my life.

I was 34 at the time. I had the most stubborn double chin that would not go away. I had lost about 20 pounds through diet and exercise yet it was still there (I’m about 160 lbs, avid weightlifter). I blame genetics. I would see the double chin in photos and on screen while I was in my Zoom meetings - it became such a sore sight for me. I finally bit the bullet to get it removed with lipo.

The staff at Cheng Plastic Surgery were all absolutely amazing. The staff and Dr. Cheng gave me all the information about the procedure and answered all my questions. They were not pushy at all and let me take the time to decide if this was something I wanted to pursue. The day of the procedure, Dr. Cheng and staff were great and made sure I was comfortable and not nervous. The procedure itself was rather quick (less than an hour) and painless. Recovery was surprisingly not bad. There were quick check-in visits post-surgery for Dr. Cheng to monitor healing. I followed all of the post-procedure instructions and healed with no complications and I’m pleased to say the double chin is gone. It’s such a relief to not see it show up in photos anymore. I’m so thankful to Dr. Cheng and his staff - highly recommend.

by A.K.

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year. She has been cautious, transparent, informative, and empathetic throughout our laser treatment sessions!
Ind...

I've had a fantastic experience with Teresa over the last year. She has been cautious, transparent, informative, and empathetic throughout our laser treatment sessions!
Indeed every member of the Cheng Plastic Surgery team that has helped me has been wonderful :)

by J.T.

I highly recommend Dr. Cheng

I had an amazing experience getting Botox with Dr. Cheng! Dr. Cheng and the staff are incredibly personable, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything in d...

I had an amazing experience getting Botox with Dr. Cheng! Dr. Cheng and the staff are incredibly personable, taking the time to listen to my concerns and explain everything in detail. I never feel rushed, and the whole process is smooth. The results are exactly what I want—natural and refreshed without looking overdone. If you're looking for a skilled and caring provider, I highly recommend Dr. Cheng.

by K.C.

Theresa is the best at what she does!

Theresa is the best at what she does! I live in Fresno and make the drive because there is no one like her. She really takes her time to perfect her work! Will always keep comin...

Theresa is the best at what she does! I live in Fresno and make the drive because there is no one like her. She really takes her time to perfect her work! Will always keep coming back.

by E.A.

Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly...

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly. She has such a soothing aura that instantly puts me at ease, and I never feel nervous or anxious during the treatments. Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone considering laser treatments — she makes the entire process smooth and stress-free!

by H.D.

Recommend Teresa 10/10

Teresa is great!!!! I love my lips and she was super helpful during the process to make me feel comfortable. Talked me through the whole process it didn't even feel like I was g...

Teresa is great!!!! I love my lips and she was super helpful during the process to make me feel comfortable. Talked me through the whole process it didn't even feel like I was getting my lips done. Recommend Teresa 10/10 experience.

by J.S.

I highly recommend to all

A few years ago I was referred to Cheng plastic Surgery, Best referral ever! I have been fortunate to have Theresa RN, administer all my botox/dysport, she does such amazing wor...

A few years ago I was referred to Cheng plastic Surgery, Best referral ever! I have been fortunate to have Theresa RN, administer all my botox/dysport, she does such amazing work! I highly recommend to all.

by E.T.

Looking forward to coming back!

I visited to get chin filler done and it was such a great experience. Nurse Teresa was so helpful and walked me through everything she was doing. Looking forward to coming back!...

I visited to get chin filler done and it was such a great experience. Nurse Teresa was so helpful and walked me through everything she was doing. Looking forward to coming back!

by S.H.

Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

First time getting Botox at this location and my experience has been wonderful. Teresa was my nurse injector who made the process smooth and painless. Also, the follow up appoin...

First time getting Botox at this location and my experience has been wonderful. Teresa was my nurse injector who made the process smooth and painless. Also, the follow up appointment really showed the improvement in my wrinkles, which Teresa did an amazing job. Will definitely be coming back for next touch-up!

by M.M.

I would come back if I ever needed anything

Kevin was very nice and comforting! Came here for neck line treatment (hyaluronic acid fillers). Overall, was a pleasant experience, and I would come back if I ever needed anyth...

Kevin was very nice and comforting! Came here for neck line treatment (hyaluronic acid fillers). Overall, was a pleasant experience, and I would come back if I ever needed anything

by L.

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly...

The clinic itself is always clean and the staff are very welcoming, making me feel comfortable as soon as I walk in. Teresa is not only professional but also incredibly friendly. She has such a soothing aura that instantly puts me at ease, and I never feel nervous or anxious during the treatments. Her calm and reassuring demeanor is truly appreciated. I highly recommend Teresa for anyone considering laser treatments — she makes the entire process smooth and stress-free!

by H.D.

I saw the finishing product I started to cry

Huge Shout out to Teresa for The super marvelous job she did on my lips. Honestly I was really nervous about doing lip filler and making sure that they came out looking plump an...

Huge Shout out to Teresa for The super marvelous job she did on my lips. Honestly I was really nervous about doing lip filler and making sure that they came out looking plump and full but natural. That's exactly the result I got. Teresa knew exactly how to give me a nice border around my lips and gave me the prettiest cupids bow and pout. looks really pretty with lip liner and gloss now. I actually was so excited when I saw the finishing product I started to cry. I 100% recommend Dr. Cheng & his team for all your aesthetic needs ❤️

by N.E.

I would thoroughly recommend this practice

I saw Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for microblading removal using Pico laser. The entire experience from start to finish, was professional, comfortable, and efficient. I had microbladin...

I saw Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for microblading removal using Pico laser. The entire experience from start to finish, was professional, comfortable, and efficient. I had microblading done 5-6 years ago that never faded, and the lines had blurred. I have been to this practice 3 times; the first for a free consultation, again for a spot test, and the third for the actual laser treatment.

For the day of the actual treatment, I was in and out in under 30 minutes. They numbed my eyebrow with an ice cube to make sure that I was comfortable during the treatment, and talked me through what they were doing during the entire process. The results after one session were already very good and apparent, with the tattoo fading a lot (picture attached). I made a follow-up appointment for 3 months out, but the doctor mentioned that it should fade even more before then as my skin will naturally fade the ink. I would thoroughly recommend this practice for your tattoo/microblading removal.

by D.Z.

I always feel well taken care of here

Dr. Jackie recommended I get the CO2 laser to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars. The procedure itself took less than 20 minutes and was not painful. I love how friendl...

Dr. Jackie recommended I get the CO2 laser to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars. The procedure itself took less than 20 minutes and was not painful. I love how friendly the nurses are in the office too. I always feel well taken care of here and of course, appreciate how friendly and professional Dr. Jackie is.

by E.P.

I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare

I’ve gone to Cheng’s to see Alex for Botox and/or Dysport now a few times and it is always a pleasure. I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not co...

I’ve gone to Cheng’s to see Alex for Botox and/or Dysport now a few times and it is always a pleasure. I’ve honestly tried other places and they just do not compare. 10/10 I will always come back & recommend Botox/Dysport here at Cheng’s. Technique and knowledge goes a long way with these type of things, and cheaper doesn’t always mean better yall! Trust me I’ve learned along the way! Not to mention the office is always so clean and the staff is very welcoming.

by C.W.

As soon as you enter you feel welcomed

Great experience here!!! The lovely person who attended me at Cheng Plastic Surgery was Teresa. She is so amazing and I left so happy. The service I came in for was lip filler, ...

Great experience here!!! The lovely person who attended me at Cheng Plastic Surgery was Teresa. She is so amazing and I left so happy. The service I came in for was lip filler, I wanted plumper lips that would look natural and she did just that! It was my first time so I can't lie and say I didn't feel nervous at first. But after the consultation and her talking me through it, it was easy to give her my full trust. She made me feel so at ease and explained everything so well. She is very experienced/professional and well informed, told her my goals and she worked her magic. Don't regret it one bit. And Teresa's energy is beautiful, feels genuine and warm-- I feel that is important in these types of services!

Location is great. Aesthetics are on point. Super clean. Everyone who I interacted in the office with was very kind, so many smiles. As soon as you enter you feel welcomed and inside rooms I always felt well attended.

by R.C.

Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

I had a problem with a frown line & Teresa at Cheng Plastic Surgery has done a great job resolving my issue with botox/dysport therapy. Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!...

I had a problem with a frown line & Teresa at Cheng Plastic Surgery has done a great job resolving my issue with botox/dysport therapy. Thanks Teresa, Dr. Cheng, & team!

by N.S.

He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor

My family has been coming to Dr. Cheng for all of our beauty needs. He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor. His team is also so kind and they will go above and beyon...

My family has been coming to Dr. Cheng for all of our beauty needs. He is truly the best and most knowledgeable doctor. His team is also so kind and they will go above and beyond to make sure you’re satisfied and comfortable.

by C.

Amazing session with Kevin!

Amazing session with Kevin! Super thoughtful in explaining the journey and provided guidance on how to approach my skin. Appreciate the team of how to apply the treatments. Sche...

Amazing session with Kevin! Super thoughtful in explaining the journey and provided guidance on how to approach my skin. Appreciate the team of how to apply the treatments. Scheduling was easy and getting to the office was also easy

by R.K.

What to Expect from the Procedure

Depending on your needs, revision rhinoplasty may be performed using an open or closed technique.

Surgical approach:

Open rhinoplasty

Involves a small incision at the base of the nose (columella) for maximum visibility of internal structures—ideal for complex cases.

Closed rhinoplasty

Uses internal incisions only, best for minor refinements and hidden scarring.

If too much cartilage was removed in the initial surgery, cartilage grafting may be necessary. This cartilage is often taken from the septum, ear, or rib to rebuild structural support and symmetry.

Please note: All revision rhinoplasty procedures are conducted in our fully equipped Saratoga surgical suite, where we can deliver the specialized care and attention these cases require.

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Benefits of Revision Rhinoplasty

  • Improved breathing and restored nasal airflow
  • Reshaped bridge, nostrils, or nasal tip
  • Correction of aesthetic imperfections from previous surgery
  • Increased facial balance and harmony
  • Better structural support and long-term stability
  • Renewed confidence and satisfaction with your appearance

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for revision rhinoplasty if you:

  • Are unhappy with the results of a previous rhinoplasty
  • Are experiencing breathing issues or discomfort
  • Are physically healthy and emotionally ready for surgery
  • Do not smoke
  • Have waited at least 12 months after your first rhinoplasty
  • Have realistic expectations and are ready to collaborate with your surgeon

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we’ll begin with a thorough consultation to evaluate your nose, review your surgical history, and develop a comprehensive, honest treatment plan.

two books and a plant on a glass table

Recovery After Revision Rhinoplasty

Recovery from revision surgery is often similar to the initial rhinoplasty but may require a slightly longer timeline due to increased surgical complexity and the presence of scar tissue.

Typical recovery:

  • Swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks
  • A splint is placed for protection and shape retention
  • Nasal stuffiness, pressure, and light discomfort
  • Return to normal activity in 1–2 weeks
  • Strenuous activity avoided for 3–4 weeks
  • Final results continue to refine over 12 months

We provide a detailed aftercare plan and regular follow-up to monitor your healing and optimize results.

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Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery for Revision Rhinoplasty?

Revision rhinoplasty is one of the most technically demanding procedures in facial plastic surgery. It requires a deep understanding of anatomy, prior surgical alteration, functional airway preservation, and artistic design. At Cheng Plastic Surgery, you receive:

  • Double board-certified facial plastic surgeons with elite training
  • Expertise in both cosmetic and functional nasal correction
  • A proven track record in complex revisions and natural results
  • Personalized consultations with imaging and advanced planning
  • A luxurious, private surgical suite in San Mateo
  • Trained by the world’s leading rhinoplasty experts in residency
  • Voted the Best Plastic Surgeons in the Bay Area in 2025 by the readers of the Mercury News
  • Compassionate care from a trusted, family-led team

Drs. Jacqueline and Elbert Cheng have helped countless patients reclaim confidence and comfort after disappointing nose surgery. Their surgical precision, aesthetic intuition, and deep commitment to patient satisfaction set them apart in the field of facial plastic surgery.

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Let Us Help You Breathe Easier—and Feel Better in Your Skin

If you're struggling with the results of a previous rhinoplasty, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we specialize in revision rhinoplasty that restores balance, function, and beauty with results that finally feel right.

Schedule your private consultation in San Mateo today and take the first step toward a result you can trust and love.

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