Posted by Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 10/04/2025
Unlike what many people think, nose surgeries are not performed solely to correct aesthetic issues. There are procedures such as Rhinoseptoplasty, which can also correct problems with the functioning of the nose. If you want to know what it is, its benefits and the results you can expect, you’ll find all the answers below.
What is Rhinoseptoplasty?
A rhinoseptoplasty is a nose surgery that aims to correct or reconstruct the nasal bridge or septum, both aesthetically and functionally. As its name suggests, it is a combination of two procedures: a rhinoplasty to improve the appearance of the nose, and a septoplasty, which is the procedure that corrects functional problems. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of both options.
Objectives
The purpose of a rhinoseptoplasty is, on one hand, to correct aesthetic defects of the nose, and on the other, to improve a deviated septum, which may be the cause of breathing problems or difficulty sleeping, as well as nosebleeds or dry mouth due to frequently breathing through the mouth.
Differences Between Rhinoplasty, Septoplasty and Rhinoseptoplasty
The main difference between a rhinoplasty or ultrasonic rhinoplasty, a septoplasty and a rhinoseptoplasty is the objective of each of these procedures.
As we mentioned earlier, a rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery aimed at improving the appearance of the nose; while a septoplasty is another type of nose surgery in which the goal is to correct only medical conditions that affect the functionality of this part of the body.
Therefore, a rhinoseptoplasty, a surgical intervention that combines these two treatments, aims to achieve both aesthetic and functional improvement.
The cost of a rhinoplasty is also different from that of a rhinoseptoplasty.
Candidates for Rhinoseptoplasty
Generally, a candidate for cosmetic surgery is a person in good overall health, who does not smoke and has realistic expectations about the results. In addition to this, those undergoing a rhinoplasty or rhinoseptoplasty must meet the minimum age requirement for this type of procedure.
Functional Problems It Addresses
As for the functioning of the nose, a candidate for a rhinoseptoplasty may be a patient who needs to improve breathing, correct nasal septum deviations or nasal airway obstruction. Also patients experiencing profuse nosebleeds, snoring, sleep apnea or recurrent nasal infections.
This surgery improves nasal congestion and allows the airways to be widened so that airflow increases.
Common Aesthetic Reasons
A candidate for rhinoseptoplasty is someone who, in addition to needing to improve certain functional problems with their nose, also wants to improve its appearance. Among the aesthetic reasons for a rhinoseptoplasty, we find:
- Reduction of nose size.
- Change in tip shape.
- Reduction of a dorsal hump.
- Harmonizing the nose with respect to other facial features.
Benefits of Rhinoseptoplasty
Improvements in Respiratory Function
It improves nasal functionality, since it focuses on solving the problems caused by having a deviated septum, such as difficulty breathing through the nose or falling asleep. Also, by undergoing a rhinoseptoplasty, it is possible to stop frequent nosebleeds, reduce snoring or improve sleep apnea.
Aesthetic Results and Facial Harmonization
Through a rhinoseptoplasty, a patient can, in addition to recovering the functionality of their nose, change its size and shape, reduce or eliminate bumps and improve symmetry. In this way, the patient achieves a more harmonious face.
Surgical Procedure
Medical Evaluation and Preoperative Tests
The first step for a rhinoseptoplasty is to attend a consultation with the selected surgeon for a physical examination, to discuss medical history and to talk about expectations. The doctor will explain to the patient the possible results and also which technique they consider best for performing the surgery.
Techniques Used: Open vs. Closed
Rhinoseptoplasties can be classified into two types, according to the incision: open or closed.
- An open rhinoseptoplasty is the surgery in which a small incision is made on the external part of the columella, through which the skin is lifted to access the interior. This technique is effective in cases of revision surgeries or when the patient requires significant changes at the structural level of the nose.
- On the other hand, closed rhinoseptoplasty is the one in which all cuts are made inside the nose, so scars are not visible. It is used for procedures in patients who require reshaping without major structural changes, and it has the advantage that recovery is faster than with the open method.
Duration and Type of Anesthesia
A rhinoseptoplasty can last between one and three hours, depending on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s experience. This surgery is performed in most cases with general anesthesia, although depending on the patient or the technique, this may vary.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
The most important advice for an optimal recovery from a rhinoplasty or a rhinoseptoplasty is to follow your surgeon’s instructions, who is the qualified person to give specific recommendations.
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
As for immediate post-surgery care, the doctor will prescribe painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve swelling and discomfort. Additionally, applying ice packs also contributes to improvement.
Recommendations for Optimal Recovery
- Place several pillows or cushions as support for your head in bed, so that your head can remain elevated, even when sleeping.
- Avoid strenuous physical effort or exertion, as well as lifting weight.
- Do not expose yourself to the sun or high temperatures.
- Do not massage the treated area.
- Maintain facial hygiene routines, but be careful when doing so.
Possible Complications and How to Manage Them
As with any surgical procedure, there are associated risks. Although rhinoseptoplasty is a safe surgery, it is important to be aware of them before entering the operating room.
- Infection, which can be prevented by following the care instructions given by your surgeon and taking medications.
- Bleeding. Avoiding strenuous activity and proper rest is essential to prevent hemorrhages.
- Scarring problems. Proper care of the incisions is essential, and the choice of a good surgeon and the selection of the appropriate technique also play a role.
- Breathing difficulties. The surgeon must take precautions before, during and after the surgery to avoid respiratory problems.
Timeline for Observing Functional and Aesthetic Improvements
The estimated time a patient should remain hospitalized after a rhinoseptoplasty is 24 hours, although this may vary from person to person. However, definitive results begin to be visible after three months, when swelling starts to decrease. This time can even extend up to one year, at which point the final appearance of the nose will be visible.
A rhinoseptoplasty is a very effective surgery that allows the patient to achieve an improved appearance of their nose, achieving greater harmony in the face, while also being able to correct functional conditions that often affect the person’s quality of life.
Always remember to choose a specialized and experienced surgeon to achieve a successful result without complications. Book your appointment at our clinic.
