Nose reshaping: what is a septorhinoplasty?

A septorhinoplasty is an otolaryngology (ENT) procedure in which a deviated septum (septoplasty) is treated, along with an aesthetic improvement of the nasal dorsum and/or nasal tip (rhinoplasty). But what's involved? 

When is rhinoplasty (nasal surgery) performed?

Before any kind of surgery is carried out, a nasal endoscopy (a camera tube inserted into the nose) should always be performed to confirm the cause of the nasal obstruction. A preoperative photographic book will be made to specify what exactly must be corrected, what the most appropriate technique for surgery will be, and so the postoperative results can be evaluated as a comparison to the original pictures.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery, from the point of view of plastic surgery, has evolved from a technique referred to as a 'closed' technique. The drawback of this technique is that it is very difficult to perform a predictable correction of the nasal tip, because access is very limited and it is not possible to see any nasal symmetry.

To address this problem, an open, or external rhinoplasty technique was created. This surgery consists of making an incision in the cartilage and skin between the nostrils (columella), exposing the entire nose. The main drawback to this procedure is that the scar is almost always visible.

What are the new techniques in septorhinoplasty?  

The nose should be treated in an integrated way in which functionality and aesthetics are fully related. Considering this way of thinking, a new technique was devised by Dr Barceló (a Spanish surgeon practising in Barcelona) which was presented at the American Congress of Plastic Surgery in Boston 2010. His technique combines the best advantages of the closed technique and the open technique.

The technique allows treatment of the nasal tip along with other alterations, with very predictable results and without leaving any type of external scar. The result is a natural-looking nose which fits well with the symmetry of the face.

This type of surgery can be performed on patients between the ages of 18 and 65.

How long does septorhinoplasty recovery take?

Septorhinoplasty is performed under a general anaesthetic, and afterwards a nasal dressing must be worn for around four days. During this period, the patient suffers from oropharyngeal dryness, abundant tearing of the eyes, and some anxiety - but contrary to what most people believe, there is no pain.

A mild bruise usually appears but this disappears within a few days. The required time off from work is approximately ten days. Rhinoplasty recovery is the same as after having septorhinoplasty.

Make an appointment with a Top Doctors plastic surgery specialist to discuss your options about rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty.