Rhinoseptoplasty and septoplasty

Rhinoseptoplasty and Septoplasty

The nose is an extremely important part of the respiratory system. It allows us to breathe and perceive smells. The nose humidifies and warms the inhaled air, but also cleans it from microorganisms. Its proper functioning directly affects basic life functions, such as breathing, and also provides protection against various types of infections.

Unfortunately, there are situations in which these functions are disrupted. The causes can vary. Most often, however, nasal problems result from congenital structural defects or past injuries. This leads to many difficulties in breathing, but there are ways to resolve them with the help of specialized procedures – rhinoseptoplasty and septoplasty. What exactly do these procedures involve? Where can rhinoseptoplasty and septoplasty be performed? What are the indications for these types of procedures? You will find out from the article below. We encourage you to read on!

 Rhinoseptoplasty and Septoplasty – What Procedures Are We Talking About?

Rhinoseptoplasty is a modern procedure that combines septoplasty and rhinoplasty.

Septoplasty involves correcting a deviated or deformed nasal septum. It consists of removing the deviated part of the septum (cartilaginous/bony) through an incision in the nasal vestibule to improve breathing quality, as well as the cleaning and humidifying of the nasal or oral cavity. Septoplasty does not change the shape of the nose. This procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia. Rhinoplasty, on the other hand, focuses on correcting aesthetic defects of the nose, such as removing a hump or modifying the tip of the nose.

Rhinoseptoplasty is therefore, in a sense, a solution for more demanding patients who want to benefit from both procedures. It allows correction of a deviated nasal septum that impairs breathing and simultaneously improves the external appearance of the nose during a single operation. Rhinoseptoplasty may involve removing nasal defects/post-traumatic complications and reducing/increasing the size of the nose, changing the shape of its tip, or the angle between the nose and the upper lip.

What Does the Rhinoseptoplasty Procedure Look Like?

 Depending on the type of nasal abnormality, rhinoseptoplasty can be performed using a closed or open method.

The closed surgical method involves making incisions inside the nasal cavities and using absorbable sutures. A clear advantage of this method is that the scars from the incisions are completely invisible. Additionally, the absorbable sutures dissolve on their own after a few days, so there is no need for removal. However, it should be noted that the closed surgical method is not suitable for correcting all defects.

The open method involves making incisions on the nose between its nostrils, but in inconspicuous locations. This is definitely an easier solution for the surgeon, as it provides fuller access to all nasal structures. The open method causes a scar, but after several months it is practically invisible. After the operation, special silicone plates stabilizing the nasal septum are applied to the patient (removed after about 7 days) along with external dressings, which are removed after about 10-12 days. The entire rhinoseptoplasty procedure usually lasts from 1.5 to 2.5 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Rhinoseptoplasty and Septoplasty – Who Are They For?

Indications for septoplasty include problems with nasal breathing, frequent sinus infections, or nosebleeds. This procedure should also be considered when impaired nasal patency affects our sense of smell and speech, causes snoring, or sleep apnea.

Rhinoseptoplasty, on the other hand, is an appropriate choice for those who not only report the above problems but also want to eliminate nasal deformities and improve its external appearance. This is especially recommended when the nose’s appearance or size does not match the rest of the face. Improper proportions or overall appearance can negatively affect our mood and self-esteem. To avoid developing complexes and withdrawing socially, it is better to opt for a procedure that resolves all issues related to a deviated nasal septum.

Rhinoseptoplasty and Septoplasty – Where to Go for Nasal Surgery?

Generally, there are many clinics offering these types of procedures. However, this does not mean that all guarantee similar quality of services. If we want to be sure that we are in the hands of qualified surgeons, it is worth focusing on professional clinics. They can be recognized by their market experience, very diverse offerings, and individual approach to patients. Moreover, professional clinics enjoy a good reputation, so if we are unsure about our choice, we can always check other patients’ reviews.