Rhinoplasty Versus Septoplasty: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to plastic surgery, a lot of big words are thrown around, and for anyone who may be considering undergoing a corrective procedure, it’s important to know which options are right for you.

Nose job” is a phrase you hear a lot, especially in casual conversation, but did you know that there’s more than one type, and that these types serve different purposes?

Rhinoplasty, for example, is generally an aesthetic procedure. Its purpose is to change the general size and shape of the nostrils, as well as the tip of the nose, to give it a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. It’s among the most popular forms of plastic surgery, because let’s face it, the nose is a prominent facial feature, and not everybody likes theirs. Patients who have undergone rhinoplasty frequently report increased confidence as a result.

Septoplasty, on the other hand, is usually a corrective procedure, although it’s often combined with a cosmetic rhinoplasty. This particular procedure focuses primarily on the septum, which is the cartilage and bone that separates the two sides of the nose. The septoplasty is typically done to improve breathing quality, as a treatment to chronic sinus infections, and several other functional reasons as well.

Overall, the biggest difference between the two procedures is that rhinoplasty changes the size and shape of the nose, whereas septoplasty is more functional. So, if you’re thinking about getting a nose job, the first step is to identify which procedure is right for you. Schedule a nasal surgery consultation with Dr. Hecht in Scottsdale to better understand the type of procedure you will require for the results you desire.