Septorhinoplasty
What is Septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery, is a combination of two procedures: rhinoplasty (surgery that changes the appearance of the nose) and septoplasty (surgical correction of the nasal septum). This procedure is performed to improve both the function and appearance of the nose
Whether you're considering septorhinoplasty for medical reasons or to enhance your facial harmony, this guide provides essential information to help you understand the procedure, benefits, risks, and recovery process.
Why Might I Need Septorhinoplasty?
1. Functional Benefits
A primary reason people undergo septorhinoplasty is to treat functional issues like:
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Deviated Septum: A misalignment of the septum (the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity) can obstruct airflow, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
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Collapse of the side walls of the nose when breathing. If sides of the nose collapse during breathing in affecting of how much air you can breath in, Dr Fragkiadakis might offer you to have a septorhinoplasty
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Snoring: Septorhinoplasty can help improve airflow, leading to better sleep quality and reduced snoring.
2. Cosmetic Benefits
For those seeking aesthetic improvements, septorhinoplasty can:
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Refine the Shape of the Nose: If the nose appears too large, small, crooked, or has a bump, rhinoplasty can reshape it to achieve better facial balance.
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Improve Proportions: Whether it's adjusting the nasal tip, nostrils, or bridge, septorhinoplasty helps refine the overall appearance of the nose.
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Restore Symmetry: Injuries or congenital issues may cause asymmetry in the nose, which septorhinoplasty can address.
3. Combined Approach for Optimal Results
Septorhinoplasty combines the best of both worlds—functional improvements through septoplasty and aesthetic refinements through rhinoplasty—ensuring that both form and function are addressed in a single procedure.
What Happens During the Operation?
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Before Surgery: Dr Fragkiadakis will talk to you about your symptoms and check your nose. You might have a quick camera test (nasal endoscopy). Dr Fragkiadakis will take some photographs of your nose and discuss your expectations and what can be achieved.
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Anaesthetic: You’ll be asleep (general anaesthetic).
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Incisions: Incisions are typically made inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) to minimize visible scarring. In some cases, an external incision may be made across the columella (the skin between the nostrils) for better access (open rhinoplasty).
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The Operation: Dr Fragkiadakis will access the septum, reposition any misaligned structures, remove obstructions (such as bone or cartilage), and straighten the septum to improve airflow. Following this, he will then will proceed with reshaping the external nose. This can involve reducing or increasing the size of the nose, removing bumps, refining the tip, or narrowing the nostrils.
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How Long? The operation usually takes usually about 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity and any additional procedures that might be required.
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After Surgery: After the surgery, a splint or packing may be placed inside the nose to support the septum and help with swelling reduction. External splints are also often used to help shape the nose. Most people go home the same day.
Recovery and Aftercare
1. Initial Recovery
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Bruising and Swelling: Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes are common in the first few days following surgery. This will gradually subside over the next week or two.
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Pain Management: Mild discomfort is typical, but your doctor will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable during the healing process.
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Rest and Elevation: It’s important to rest and keep your head elevated, especially in the first few days, to reduce swelling.
2. Resuming Normal Activities
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First Week: Avoid strenuous activity and keep your head elevated as much as possible. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wound care and avoid any actions that might disrupt the healing process (e.g., blowing your nose).
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After 2–4 Weeks: Most of the swelling will begin to subside, and you can usually return to light activities. However, contact sports or any activity that could risk trauma to the nose should be avoided for several months.
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Full Recovery: While you’ll see noticeable improvements within a few weeks, full results may take up six months to be fully apparent as residual swelling gradually resolves.
3. Follow-up Appointments
Dr Fragkiadakis will schedule several follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. These visits ensure that your nose is healing properly and that both functional and cosmetic goals are being met.
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, septorhinoplasty carries certain risks:
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Infection: Though rare, infection can occur, which is why proper aftercare and antibiotic use are important.
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Scarring: Scarring is usually minimal and well-hidden, especially with closed rhinoplasty. However, in cases where open rhinoplasty is necessary, a small scar on the columella may remain.
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Breathing Issues: In some cases, breathing may not improve as expected, or new issues may arise, requiring revision surgery.
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Aesthetic Results: While most people are satisfied with the aesthetic outcomes, it's essential to have realistic expectations. Sometimes, minor adjustments may be needed after the initial healing phase.
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Risks relating to the general anaesthetic: For more info for anaesthetic risks, you can check this link.
Who is a Good Candidate for Septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty may be suitable for you if:
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You have a deviated septum or other structural issues affecting your ability to breathe.
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You are unhappy with the appearance of your nose and want to achieve a more balanced look.
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You are in good overall health, non-smoker, and have realistic expectations regarding both functional and cosmetic outcomes.
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You are an adult (or near adulthood), as the nose should be fully developed before undergoing surgery.
For further information, please click on the link
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