Blog

Rhinoplasty vs. Septoplasty: What’s the Difference?

People who are considering treatments to enhance the appearance of the nose may come across septoplasty and rhinoplasty procedures. Both of these treatments have their respective pros and cons. And, when it comes to weighing the advantages and disadvantages of septoplasty vs. rhinoplasty surgery, it can be beneficial to work with an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles has comprehensive facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery expertise. He understands the nose’s impact on the facial appearance and can perform septoplasty or rhinoplasty surgery to help a patient achieve a nose that complements the rest of their face. Dr. Azizzadeh also offers insights into the rhinoplasty vs. septoplasty debate to educate his patients about both treatment options.

What Is a Rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty, also referred to as a nose job or nose surgery, is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. It is used to enhance the proportions of the nose and address nasal asymmetry.

When completed properly, a nose job can provide a patient with a balanced, natural-looking facial appearance. Nose surgery can also boost a patient’s self-confidence, since their nose will appear proportional to their cheeks, eyes, and other facial features.

Why Do Patients Pursue Nose Surgery?

There are many reasons why people consider rhinoplasty surgery. These reasons include:

• • Improved Facial Symmetry: Rhinoplasty can help a patient achieve a symmetrical facial appearance.
  • Correction of Birth Defects and Sinus Issues: Nose surgery can be used to repair and eliminate nose deformities and address chronic sinusitis (nasal passage inflammation).
  • Enhanced Breathing: A nose job can correct breathing issues.

Rhinoplasty surgery can be beneficial, but the procedure is not intended for everyone.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Nose Job?

The best candidates for rhinoplasty surgery may display one or more of the following characteristics:

• • Nasal bridge that is too high or too low
  • Wide or flaring nostrils
  • Crooked, droopy, long or upturned nose
  • Dorsal hump (hump on nose)
  • Nose that is too wide or narrow

Dr. Azizzadeh requests an in-person consultation in Beverly Hills or virtual consultation via Zoom before a patient can receive a nose job. The consultation allows Dr. Azizzadeh to evaluate his patient’s facial appearance and medical history. If Dr. Azizzadeh deems a patient to be a viable candidate for a nose job, he can then provide him or her with a personalized treatment plan.

What Rhinoplasty Surgery Options Are Available?

Several types of rhinoplasty surgeries are available, including:

• • Male Rhinoplasty: Accounts for the distinct nose characteristics of men to improve nose symmetry and correct structural defects of the nose.
  • Teenage Rhinoplasty: Addresses cosmetic and structural issues of the nose; teenage rhinoplasty is generally performed on boys as early as 16 or 17 years old and girls as early as 15 or 16 years old.
  • Ethnic Rhinoplasty: Allows a patient to resize or reshape their nose and improve without sacrificing their ethnic facial characteristics.

Dr. Azizzadeh understands the intricacies of the nose. He strives to perform rhinoplasty surgery that can help a patient achieve a natural-looking and beautiful nose. To accomplish his goal, Dr. Azizzadeh meets with a patient and performs a full evaluation. After Dr. Azizzadeh confirms a patient is a good candidate for nose surgery, he develops a custom treatment plan. This approach ensures that Dr. Azizzadeh can provide his patient with a nose that looks natural and works properly.

What Is a Septoplasty?

A septoplasty corrects a deviated septum, i.e. bone and cartilage that divides the nostrils. A deviated septum blocks one side of the nose, reducing airflow and making it tough to breathe through one or both sides of the nose. In addition, a deviated septum can cause nasal dryness that leads to crusting or bleeding.

During a septoplasty procedure, a surgeon straightens and repositions the nasal septum. The surgeon can trim, reposition, or replace nasal cartilage or bone and cut and remove parts of the nasal septum before reinserting them into the correct position.

Why Do Patients Pursue Septoplasty Surgery?

Septoplasty can benefit patients who are dealing with a deviated septum and experience breathing issues. The procedure treats structural issues of the nose, so a patient can breathe comfortably through the nose.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Septoplasty?

Patients may qualify for a septoplasty if they have a deviated septum that causes breathing problems. They may also snore excessively, to the point where the issue makes it difficult to fall or stay asleep.

What Is the Biggest Difference Between Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty and septoplasty are procedures used to treat the nose. Yet, a nose job is commonly used to correct cosmetic problems that affect the appearance of the nose, while a septoplasty treats structural issues of the nose.

Can Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty Surgeries Be Performed at the Same Time?

Dr. Azizzadeh can perform rhinoplasty and septoplasty surgeries simultaneously. He does so if he believes that both procedures can help his patient optimize the form and function of the nose.

If a patient requires a rhinoplasty, septoplasty, or both, Dr. Azizzadeh prepares this individual for their surgery. He offers instructions to help his patient get ready for their surgery day. Dr. Azizzadeh also provides recovery tips and recommendations.

Septoplasty vs Rhinoplasty Recovery

The septoplasty and rhinoplasty recovery processes are similar. Both procedures can cause swelling, bruising, and other short-term side effects. Furthermore, it can take septoplasty and rhinoplasty patients one year or longer before they see the full results of their surgery.

Dr. Azizzadeh requests follow-up appointments throughout their recovery from septoplasty or rhinoplasty surgery. He monitors his patients’ results in the weeks and months following surgery. Dr. Azizzadeh also encourages his patients to get in touch with him if they have concerns and questions during this time.

Rhinoplasty vs. Septoplasty: Which Nose Surgery Is Right for You?

Rhinoplasty and septoplasty are both nose surgeries, and determining which procedure can help a patient achieve their desired results can be challenging. Fortunately, Dr. Azizzadeh removes the guesswork commonly associated with rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures.

Dr. Azizzadeh is happy to meet with patients to discuss septoplasty and rhinoplasty surgeries and other facial plastic and reconstructive procedures. To find out more, contact us online or call us today at 310-683-4085 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.