Oftentimes, patients ask if rhinoplasty and septoplasty are the same procedure. The answer is no, they are not, although they both involve the nose. They are distinct surgical procedures that serve different purposes.
A rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is a cosmetic surgical procedure altering the shape, size, or appearance of the nose to enhance its aesthetic appearance.
During a rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Wise may modify the nasal bones and cartilage to achieve the desired cosmetic result for the patient. This typically involves reshaping the bridge, refining the tip, or addressing other aesthetic concerns one may have.
A septoplasty is a surgery that addresses functional issues related to the nasal septum, which is the cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils. The goal of septoplasty is to correct a deviated septum or crooked nasal septum, which can obstruct airflow and cause breathing difficulties.
During a septoplasty, Dr. Wise typically makes incisions inside the nose and repositions or trims the septum to improve nasal airflow. Different from rhinoplasty, the primary purpose of septoplasty is to enhance breathing rather than change the external appearance of the nose.
Rhinoplasty and septoplasty can be performed as independent surgeries however, oftentimes there are cases where both procedures are done simultaneously, known as septorhinoplasty. This is when the surgeon addresses both functional and cosmetic aspects of the nose in a single surgery.
To set up your complimentary rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Wise, give us a call at (973) 305-1400 or fill out a contact form.
