Breathe Easier and Reshape Your Nose: What Is Septorhinoplasty?

When people hear "nose job", they usually think of changing how the nose looks, but for some people the real problem is not just the shape of the nose; it is being unable to breathe comfortably. One of the first questions that comes up about nose surgery is this: can structural problems inside the nose and cosmetic expectations be addressed in the same operation?

This is where septorhinoplasty comes in. Because it involves both the external structure of the nose and its breathing function, this surgery is of particular interest to people who have a deviated septum and also want to change the shape of their nose. So what is septorhinoplasty, how does it differ from septoplasty, and who might it suit? In this article, we look at the most common questions together. 

1. What Is Septorhinoplasty and Why Is It Performed?

Septorhinoplasty is an operation in which correction of the wall inside the nose, known as the septum, is carried out together with surgery on the external structure of the nose. It is worth knowing that the septum is the cartilage and bone structure that separates the two nasal passages. When this structure is crooked, it can affect airflow in some people and cause nasal congestion.

The aim of septorhinoplasty is to correct structural problems inside the nose and to reshape the nose according to the person's needs.

However, not every breathing problem is caused by a deviated septum. That is why a thorough examination is needed before deciding on surgery. 

2. What Is the Difference Between Septorhinoplasty and Septoplasty?

Although the names of these two operations are similar, their scope is different.

• Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten a deviated septum inside the nose. Its main purpose is to help relieve airway problems caused by the septum. It is generally not intended to change the outward appearance of the nose.
• Rhinoplasty is surgery performed to change the external shape of the nose or to correct certain structural problems. Septorhinoplasty, on the other hand, means planning corrections to the septum and procedures on the external structure of the nose as part of the same operation.
• In short, septoplasty focuses mainly on the wall inside the nose, while septorhinoplasty can address both the internal and external structure of the nose.

3. Who Might Septorhinoplasty Be Suitable For?

Septorhinoplasty may be considered for people who want to change the shape of their nose and also have breathing problems caused by a deviated septum or the structure of the nose.

• People with nasal congestion caused by a deviated septum
• People who develop both a change in nose shape and breathing problems after a nasal injury
• People who want to change the appearance of their nose and also need correction of the septum
• This procedure may also be necessary for patients whose structural problems inside and outside the nose need to be assessed together.

That said, nasal congestion can also be caused by allergies or other factors. Whether septorhinoplasty is suitable can only be determined by a specialist assessment.

4. How Is Septorhinoplasty Performed?

Septorhinoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia.

During the operation, depending on the corrections required, the surgeon may reshape the crooked parts of the septum and work on the bony or cartilaginous structures of the nose. Depending on the patient's anatomy and the planned procedures, the operation can be done using an open or closed surgical approach.

Our article Open or Closed? 5 Key Differences Between Rhinoplasty Techniques explains the features of the open and closed techniques.

5. How Long Does Recovery Take After Septorhinoplasty?

In the first days after septorhinoplasty, nasal congestion, swelling, tenderness and, in some patients, bruising around the eyes may occur.

Many people can gradually return to their daily routine within about 1–2 weeks. However, you may need to wait longer before doing strenuous physical activity.

It takes time for the tissues inside the nose to heal and for the swelling to go down. It may take months for the final appearance of the nose to become clear.

During recovery, it is important to protect the nose from knocks, follow the care instructions your doctor recommends and keep all your follow-up appointments.

Take a look at our guide 7 Things to Watch Out for During Recovery After Rhinoplasty for more information on post-operative care.

Does septorhinoplasty completely resolve breathing problems?

In suitable patients, septorhinoplasty can help reduce breathing problems caused by structural factors. However, complete improvement is not guaranteed for every patient. Accompanying conditions such as allergies can also affect breathing.

Is septorhinoplasty a cosmetic operation?

Septorhinoplasty can be planned for both functional and cosmetic purposes. The scope of the procedures is determined according to the patient's needs.

Does septorhinoplasty change the shape of the nose?

Yes. The external structure of the nose can be altered as part of septorhinoplasty. However, the extent of the change depends on the planning done before surgery.

Is nasal congestion normal after septorhinoplasty?

Temporary nasal congestion may occur after surgery due to swelling and crusting. However, symptoms that steadily get worse or cause serious difficulty breathing need medical evaluation.

Is surgery for a crooked nasal bone the same as septorhinoplasty?

The phrase "surgery for a crooked nasal bone" can be used to describe different procedures depending on where the deviation is. If the deviation is in the septum inside the nose, septoplasty may be considered; if both the septum and the external structure of the nose need correcting, septorhinoplasty may be considered.

Septorhinoplasty Can Improve Both the Appearance and the Function of the Nose

Septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure in which septum problems inside the nose and changes to the external structure of the nose can be addressed together. However, not everyone with nasal congestion needs this operation. The right approach is to identify the cause of the problem and create a treatment plan suited to the person's needs.

On MediFinder, you can browse plastic surgery clinics and start researching rhinoplasty.

Sources

• Cleveland Clinic — Septoplasty
• Cleveland Clinic — Rhinoplasty
• NHS — Septorhinoplasty patient information resources
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) — Rhinoplasty

 

If your main concern is breathing rather than the shape of your nose, read our guide Septoplasty Surgery: What Is It, How Is It Performed, and How Much Does It Cost?