In 2004, rhinoplasty was one of the most popular surgical cosmetic procedures among all Americans, with 166,187 procedures performed, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Rhinoplasty is cosmetic nasal surgery intended to improve the shape of the nose. This can be achieved by decreasing the size of a prominent nose by shortening it, narrowing it, reducing a wide tip or lowering its height.

Rhinoplasty can also help straighten crooked noses or improve nasal breathing, which is referred to as septo rhinoplasty. Fixing the deviated septum itself is not considered a cosmetic procedure since the goal of the surgery is just to correct or repair the abnormality in the nasal septum, which is not externally visible. It is not uncommon, however, for patients to combine the septoplasty, or correcting the deviated septum, alongside a rhinoplasty, terming it septorhinoplasty.

Septorhinoplasty is a very individual surgery, requiring the cosmetic surgeon and the patient to be clear about the specific goals. Work will be performed on both the deviated septum and the external shape of the nose, which makes septorhinoplasty a little more complex than a typical septoplasty or rhinoplasty.

Undergoing septorhinoplasty requires a cosmetic surgeon that has an eye for aesthetic beauty, the skill in performing it safety, as well as being able to determine if the new shape will be in balance with the other facial structures in a natural manner. In some instances the cosmetic surgeon will suggest other augmentations to best maximize the new appearance of the septorhinoplasty, such as altering the chin to achieve a more desirable profile.

Considering nasal surgery like a septorhinoplasty requires trust and confidence between both the cosmetic surgeon and the patient. Like any surgical procedure, there are both risks and benefits, but with cosmetic procedures the patient is also focused on the finished appearance. While many doctors might have the medical training to safely and effectively perform the septology portion, top cosmetic surgeons also have an eye for what is considered to be aesthetically pleasing.

Following a nasal surgery like septorhinoplasty, the patient can expect to wear a splint on the nose for about a week while limiting activities. Swelling and discoloration should be expected, but within several weeks, the results of the septorhinoplasty will start to become more apparent. A successful septorhinoplasty will allow the patient to enjoy breathing through the nose without any internal obstructions, as well as to enjoy the improved external appearance of the nose.

Most insurance companies will pay for procedures that improve breathing or restore appearances because of a deforming nasal fracture, but strictly cosmetic procedures are not covered. Since a septorhinoplasty combines both, a portion of the procedure might be covered, but will depend on individual plans.

For more information on septorhinoplasty, please contact us to consult with a reputable cosmetic surgeon.