Septoplasty and rhinoplasty both involve the nose, but septoplasty corrects internal breathing issues, while rhinoplasty addresses cosmetic concerns. Sinus & Snoring Specialists offers both procedures in Austin, TX, allowing patients to address functional breathing problems, cosmetic concerns, or both when appropriate.
Drs. Slaughter, Salvador, and Ojeaga make recommendations based on each patient’s symptoms and goals. Below, they answer common questions about how the two procedures compare.
What Is the Difference Between Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum to improve breathing, while rhinoplasty changes the appearance of the nose.
The septum is the divider in the nose that separates the right nasal airway from the left. When it is straight, the airway is equal and adequate on both sides.
When the septum is deviated to one side, the nasal airway can be significantly reduced, leading to symptoms such as:
- Congestion
- Difficulty breathing
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Sinus pressure
- Sinus infections
Surgically correcting this deviation is called septoplasty. It involves a small incision on the inside of the nose, with no visible incisions or changes to the nasal appearance.
Rhinoplasty alters the appearance of the nose. It is frequently performed to address cosmetic concerns such as:
- A large nose
- A nasal hump
- A crooked or deviated nose
- An irregular or poorly defined nasal tip
Rhinoplasty may also improve nasal breathing, and it is frequently combined with septoplasty. It may involve a small incision at the base of the nose, but this is usually imperceptible over time.
Does Insurance Cover Septoplasty or Rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty is typically covered by insurance as a medical procedure. Rhinoplasty, on the other hand, is typically not covered.
When the procedures are combined, the functional portion may be covered while the cosmetic portion is typically self-pay. Coverage varies by plan, so it is a good idea to confirm your benefits before scheduling surgery.
What Results Can You Expect from Each Procedure?
After septoplasty, most patients breathe much better through their nose as they heal. Symptoms that may improve include:
- Congestion
- Sinus pressure
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
Patients will not typically see any change in the nasal appearance. In our office, septoplasty is about a 15-minute procedure done under sedation, and most patients can return to work the next day without the need for pain medicine.
Rhinoplasty patients will first notice the external incision healing at the base of the nose if one was made. During early recovery, patients may have:
- An external splint for the first few days
- Some bruising under the eyes
- Swelling that temporarily disguises the initial cosmetic improvements
The cosmetic improvements become clearer as swelling resolves. About 90% of the healing is done by six months, but there may be further subtle changes for up to 18 months. In our office, there is no internal packing or splinting for either procedure.
Can Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty Be Performed at the Same Time?
Yes. The two procedures are frequently combined in our office to improve breathing and appearance in one surgery.
Combining the procedures may make sense if you have:
- A deviated septum that affects your breathing
- A nasal hump or crooked nose you would like to change
- A nasal tip you would like to refine
- A preference for a single recovery period
If you want better breathing and have also considered cosmetic changes, addressing both at once means one period of healing instead of two.
Meet Our Physicians
Double Board-Certified Specialists
At Sinus & Snoring Specialists, our clinic brings together a dedicated Sinus & Nasal Center, Snoring & Sleep Apnea Center, Allergy Testing & Treatment Center, and Ear & Hearing Care services—all under one roof. Sinus & Snoring Specialists works very hard to provide one center that has everything needed for a full evaluation and treatment in one location.
Schedule a Consultation with Drs. Slaughter, Salvador, and Ojeaga
Ready to determine whether septoplasty, rhinoplasty, or a combination of both fits your needs? During your visit, the doctors can examine your nasal airway, discuss your cosmetic goals, and explain which approach suits you.
Schedule a consultation with Sinus & Snoring Specialists in Austin, TX, or call (512) 601-0303 today.