Combining both a rhinoplasty and a septoplasty, a septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the physical appearance and function of your nose.
Why might you need a septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty is a unique procedure that addresses both medical and cosmetic concerns. It’s important to understand the differences to ensure you choose the right option for your personal needs. You may consider a septorhinoplasty for the following reasons:
Medical reasons:
- Nasal instruction and/or breathing difficulties
- Snoring, nosebleeds or sleep apnea
- Sinus problems
Cosmetic reasons:
- Nose shape
- Nose size
- Nose symmetry
It’s worth discussing your options with an ENT specialist. At Modality LLP, we partner with experienced ENT specialists who are on hand to help you with the process.
What happens during a septorhinoplasty?
A septorhinoplasty usually takes between one and a half to three hours, under general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep for the entire operation. The procedure involves the following:
Incision – Cuts are made inside the nostrils or in between the nostrils.
Septoplasty – The cartilage in between the nostrils (the septum) is straightened and repositioned by the surgeon; strips or grafts may be inserted in the nose.
Rhinoplasty – The nasal framework, including the cartilage, bone and skin around your nose, is reshaped to alter the physical appearance of your nose.
Closure – After both procedures, the incisions are closed and the nose is supported with splints or packing to aid recovery.
Recovering from a septorhinoplasty
Your ENT specialist will advise you on this process of recovery, which is key to aid healing and optimise results. You will need to avoid strenuous activities as your nose recovers; you may also be advised to avoid smoky places and busy areas, as you will be susceptible to colds and coughs which could hinder recovery.
Symptoms to expect during recovery include:
- Swelling around the nose
- Bruising around the nose
- Nasal congestion
- Breathing difficulties
Recovery time varies depending on the exact procedure you have. In general, septum repair takes less time to heal than nose reshaping. Typically, it takes between one and two weeks for these side effects to reduce.
Nose reshaping can take up to a year to fully recover from. Over the first few months, it is normal to experience discomfort, pain, numbness around the nose and face as the bone and cartilage resets and heals in place. You may need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
No matter what route you choose to take, it’s important to find an experienced professional that you can trust. Your ENT specialist will be on hand to support the recovery process, with regular check-ins and guidance every step of the way. To start your journey, book an ENT consultation today or contact the team at Modality LLP for more information.
