In the world of plastic surgery, septoplasty and rhinoplasty are both procedures designed to alter the nose. However, each of these serves different purposes, and the best one for you will vary depending on the circumstances. Some people may opt to get both a rhinoplasty and a septoplasty simultaneously, but you can also get one or the other.
The Basics of Rhinoplasty
The goal of rhinoplasty is to change the external appearance of a patient’s nose. Though the procedure can be used to make breathing easier, it’s much more geared toward helping patients meet their aesthetic goals. Each person’s rhinoplasty plan is customized based on their facial features, goals, current nose shape, and any other factors at play.
Some people want to reshape the bulging tip of the nose, reduce the size of the nose’s bump, change the appearance of their nostrils, or alter their nose in any other manner. All of these changes are cosmetic ones to help a person’s nose suit their personal aesthetic. The nose is made up of cartilage at the bottom and bone at the top. A rhinoplasty can alter bone structure, the shape of cartilage, and the skin of the nose. Which elements are changed varies from case to case. Rhinoplasty can help patients achieve their ideal appearance and address self-confidence issues related to the shape or size of their noses.
The Basics of Septoplasty
The most significant difference between a traditional rhinoplasty and septoplasty is that a septoplasty procedure is not done for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons. Rather than altering the nose’s external appearance, the septoplasty will correct internal flaws with the structure of the patient’s septum and nasal cavity. The septum is a portion of cartilage that divides your nostrils and connects them to the sinuses.
The most common internal flaw is a deviated septum. This can lead to problems with breathing through the nose. People with deviated septums may snore, develop sleep apnea, have trouble breathing with their mouth closed, and struggle with other issues related to the nasal passages. Deviated septums can range from mildly irritating to disabling. Some people are born with a deviated septum due to a genetic flaw. Others develop one following an injury, usually a broken nose, or other trauma to the septum. A septoplasty’s goal is to restructure the interior of your nose so that you can breathe properly. At the end of the procedure, the nose will have two unblocked channels that provide air flow and overall efficiency in breathing.
Similarities Between Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty
Both options are surgical procedures that alter the structure of the nose. Both procedures also involve invasive methods, so you’ll need to take time off from work to recover. These are only capable of being performed by certified facial surgeons or plastic surgeons. Ask for before and after photos of your surgeon’s previous patients to make sure you’re confident in your choice.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Husni
At Neo Aesthetic Institute, Dr. Nicholas Husni helps patients to get an aesthetically pleasing, functional nose with septoplasty and rhinoplasty. He is a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon. He understands that each patient is different and pays attention to their unique features, concerns, and goals. To schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Husni today.
