Septorhinoplasty

What is a septorhinoplasty?

A septorhinoplasty is a hybrid surgical procedure combining the aesthetic benefits of rhinoplasty with functional alterations to the nasal cavity to improve airflow and breathing (septoplasty).

The Anatomy of the Nose

During a septorhinoplasty, a plastic surgeon will utilize an open rhinoplasty technique to expose all internal nasal structures by making small incisions and lifting the skin/mucosa off the cartilage and bone. The septum is composed of bone towards the top of the nose (near the brow) and cartilage towards the base. The plastic surgeon will straighten and refine the septum to improve air flow. With the internal structures still exposed, the plastic surgeon will further alter the nasal bone and cartilage for aesthetic improvements.

What cosmetic concerns does a septorhinoplasty procedure treat?

1. Cosmetic Breathing Issues: Changes to the nasal septum and other internal nasal structures allow for more natural airflow through the nasal cavity and nasal passages to improve respiration and correct breathing problems.
2. Nose Size: Alterations to internal nasal structures in septorhinoplasty also serve to refine, define, and enhance the size of the nose.
3. Nose Shape: Alterations to internal nasal structures in septorhinoplasty also serve to refine, define, and enhance the shape of the nose.
4. Nose Angle: Genetics or nasal trauma (think: a nasal fracture) can cause a crooked nose, nasal deviation, or concerns with the angle of the nose, and those concerns can be addressed with surgical intervention.

Who is the ideal candidate for a septorhinoplasty procedure?

A septorhinoplasty is an ideal procedure for individuals experiencing difficulties breathing due to structural nasal problems (like a deviated septum) who are also seeking to improve the size and shape of their nose. Those with airway obstruction, recurrent rhinitis, or chronic sinusitis may also benefit. Septorhinoplasty is not recommended for individuals with acute nasal or sinus infections, or those with certain chronic conditions.

What is the average recovery associated with a septorhinoplasty procedure?

Most patients who have undergone septorhinoplasty are able to resume most normal activities within one to two weeks. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness generally resolve within a week or two. Makeup can be worn after one week. To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to rhinoplasty recovery.

What are the potential side effects of a septorhinoplasty procedure?

Possible side effects from a septorhinoplasty procedure include bruising, bleeding, swelling, numbness, scarring, and difficulties breathing. Less common side effects include reduced sense of smell, adhesions within the nasal cavity (collections of scar tissue), and septal perforations.

What can someone expect from the results of a septorhinoplasty procedure?

A septorhinoplasty procedure is a permanent surgical procedure to alter the nasal septum and other internal nasal structures to enhance respiration and the appearance of the nose. The results are permanent and will finalize over the course of 12 to 18 months.

What is the average cost of a septorhinoplasty procedure?

This is a one time permanent surgical procedure that can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000. The actual cost of the procedure is dependent upon location, plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the surgery. Dependent upon your insurance company, some of the costs of the procedure may be covered as it is both a plastic and reconstructive surgery. To learn more, check out our [complete guide to rhinoplasty cost](https://aedit.com/procedure/rhinoplasty-nose-job/cost).