Septoplasty and rhinoplasty procedures can be performed at the same time. This combined approach, often called septorhinoplasty, addresses both functional breathing issues and cosmetic concerns related to the nose, offering comprehensive improvements in a single surgical session.
Understanding Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure focused on correcting a deviated septum, a displacement of the wall of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity. A deviated septum can obstruct airflow, leading to difficulty breathing through the nose, chronic congestion, and nosebleeds. The goal of septoplasty is to straighten the septum, improving nasal airflow and breathing.
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” reshapes the nose for aesthetic purposes. It can alter the nose’s size or shape, refine the tip, smooth out bumps on the bridge, or adjust nostril width. While primarily cosmetic, rhinoplasty can also sometimes improve breathing.
Reasons for Combining Both Procedures
Combining septoplasty and rhinoplasty offers several advantages for individuals seeking both functional and aesthetic improvements. Performing both procedures concurrently allows for a comprehensive approach, addressing internal structural problems that impair breathing while simultaneously enhancing the external appearance of the nose. This integrated strategy ensures that functional corrections do not negatively impact aesthetics, and vice versa, leading to a more balanced outcome.
A significant benefit of combining these surgeries is the single recovery period. Patients complete their healing process in one go, reducing overall downtime. This also often translates to potential cost efficiencies, as patients only incur one set of anesthesia fees and facility charges.
A combined procedure can lead to improved surgical planning. The surgeon can consider both the internal structure and external appearance of the nose simultaneously, allowing for a more effective modification. This unified approach helps avoid the need for revision surgeries that might arise if a functional correction alone later impacts aesthetic desires, or vice versa.
Key Considerations Before Combined Surgery
Before undergoing a combined septoplasty and rhinoplasty, several factors warrant careful consideration. Ideal candidates are typically in good general health, have realistic expectations, and seek both functional and aesthetic improvements. A thorough evaluation by a qualified surgeon will determine individual suitability.
Combining these procedures increases the complexity and duration of the surgery. The extended time under anesthesia and the intricate nature of addressing both internal and external nasal structures require meticulous planning. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Specific to nasal surgery, there is a possibility of temporary numbness, asymmetry, or a septal perforation (a hole in the septum).
The choice of surgeon is paramount for a successful combined procedure. It is advisable to select a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in both septoplasty and rhinoplasty. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of both functional and cosmetic aspects influences the outcome.
What to Expect During Recovery
The recovery process following a combined septoplasty and rhinoplasty involves several stages. Immediately after surgery, patients can expect some bruising and swelling around the eyes and nose. Nasal splints or packing may be placed inside the nose to support the healing septum and maintain its new position.
In the initial week, visible bruising diminishes, and external splints or sutures are often removed during a follow-up appointment. Swelling will persist, particularly in the nasal area. Most patients can return to light activities and non-strenuous work within one to two weeks, but vigorous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
Long-term swelling can take several months to fully resolve, with subtle changes in nasal contour continuing for up to a year. The final results become fully apparent as all residual swelling subsides. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated, avoid blowing their nose, and protect the nose from trauma.