Septoplasty vs Rhinoplasty: 5 Key Differences Explained
As both are procedures that treat the nose, many people find themselves confused between septoplasty and rhinoplasty. However, they are different procedures with different purposes, one of which is a cosmetic procedure, while the other addresses functional issues. Here, we’re going to look at both options, their benefits, and what you need to know to ensure that you’re looking into the surgery that suits your needs.
What is Septoplasty?
A septoplasty is a procedure that is designed to correct a deviated septum. This is when the septum, the wall of bone and cartilage dividing the two nostrils, is out of its expected position, whether this happened naturally or due to injury.
The aim of a septoplasty is to straighten and reposition the septum, allowing for better airflow. This can treat the issues caused by a deviated septum, like breathing difficulties, chronic nasal congestion, nosebleeds, or recurrent sinus infections. It’s usually recommended if other treatments, like nasal sprays and allergy medications, haven’t improved these symptoms.
During surgery, the surgeon either removes or reshapes the problematic parts of the septum, usually under local or general anesthesia.
While septoplasty primarily serves a functional purpose, improving nasal breathing and reducing related symptoms, it can also have subtle cosmetic benefits if the deviation has caused visible asymmetry in the nose. However, it is not considered a cosmetic procedure.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Also known as a “nose job”, this is a cosmetic surgery that is typically used to reshape and resize the nose. While it can address some functional issues like breathing problems, the main aim is to improve the appearance of the nose, changing its size, shape, and proportions for aesthetic and reconstructive purposes. It’s typically recommended for those experiencing self-image issues due to their nose.
There are two main types of this procedure. An open rhinoplasty sees the surgeon making an incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), allowing the surgeon to lift the skin and have greater visibility and access to the nasal structure. Meanwhile, a closed rhinoplasty has them making incisions inside the nostrils. While mostly used for less complex procedures, it does avoid visible external scarring.
Key Differences Explained
There are several major differences between septoplasty and rhinoplasty, given the immediate differences in both the aims and the methods of the procedures. Let’s break down a few of them here:
- Purpose: The goal of a septoplasty is to improve nasal function by correcting a deviated septum, helping relieve breathing difficulties and associated medical issues. A rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery, reshaping the nose for aesthetic and reconstructive purposes, with the potential for some functional improvements, too.
- Surgical Approach: A septoplasty involves working on the septum, part of the nose’s internal structure, and doesn’t usually affect the external appearance. A rhinoplasty can involve both internal and external changes, affecting the nose’s shape and appearance.
- Anesthesia: Both surgeries can be performed under local or general anesthesia, but septoplasty is often a less complex procedure and may involve a shorter duration under anesthesia.
- Surgery Duration: A septoplasty usually takes from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the deviation. A rhinoplasty can take between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the planned reshaping.
- Post-Surgery Appearance: A septoplasty does not typically change the nose’s appearance unless the septal deviation has caused asymmetry or irregularities that are then corrected. There is no visible scarring. With rhinoplasty, altering the appearance of the nose is the main goal, and it can result in a change in size, shape, and proportion. Scarring is typically minimal, but open rhinoplasty can leave a small scar at the base of the nose that typically fades over time.
Reasons for Choosing Each Surgery
While one surgery is primarily to fix functional issues, and the other is typically for aesthetic purposes, there are different reasons to select each, including the following:
Septoplasty:
- Breathing Problems: The procedure is most often used to correct the breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum.
- Chronic Sinusitis: Frequent sinus infections or nasal congestion that do not respond to other treatments can be helped with septoplasty.
- Sleep Apnea or Snoring: Septal deviations that contribute to obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring can often be alleviated with this procedure.
Rhinoplasty:
- Cosmetic Reasons: Most people choose rhinoplasty if they’re unhappy with the size, shape, or overall appearance of the nose.
- Facial Harmony: A rhinoplasty can help bring the nose into better proportion with the rest of the facial features, addressing self-issue images.
- Reconstructive Reasons: If you have experienced nasal deformities due to trauma or injury, a rhinoplasty may address them.
Recovery and Results
Septoplasty Recovery:
After the procedure, most patients will have some swelling and discomfort for a few days. The doctor may use nasal packing or splints to support the septum during healing. Typically, most will be able to return to normal activities within a week, but full recovery can take up to 3 months. Improvements to breathing should be noticeable within a week, but the final results may not be realized until the healing process finishes.
Rhinoplasty Recovery:
Swelling and bruising is common after the procedure, particularly around the eyes and nose. The doctor may recommend a nasal splint to support the new shape for the first week. Most patients can get back to normal activities after two weeks, but the final results may take a year to fully settle. However, the results are permanent, and many find that their facial aesthetics are greatly enhanced, which also improves self-confidence.
Understanding the differences between septoplasty and rhinoplasty is crucial for anyone considering nasal surgery. Septoplasty addresses functional issues related to breathing and nasal structure, while rhinoplasty focuses on cosmetic reshaping. Both surgeries offer distinct benefits, and in some cases, they can be combined to improve both the appearance and function of the nose. Recovery from both procedures is generally smooth, and the results can significantly enhance both quality of life and self-confidence. If you’re considering either surgery, consulting with a qualified surgeon can help determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Meet with a Surgeon
At Northland Plastic Surgery, our board certified plastic surgeons are experienced and ready to help. If you’ve been dealing with any of the issues mentioned in this blog then give us a call at (218) 724-7363 to schedule an appointment to determine if surgery is right for you.