A Septoplasty, also known as a deviated septum, is a corrective surgical procedure done to straighten the nasal septum, which is the partition between the two nasal cavities.
Some people confuse these terms and think a septoplasty is a cop-out for wanting a cosmetic nose job. However, your nose could be deviated at birth or you could have injuries from contact sports or falls that call for surgery on your nose.
If you have a deviated septum, you can suffer from headaches, have difficulty breathing, and sleep apnea.
How does the procedure differ from a rhinoplasty?
A rhinoplasty changes the framework of your nose to make it fit on your face (and fit better) and is done more so for cosmetic pleasure. A septoplasty is done in conjunction with improving the nose to help the nose function how it is supposed to, without any difficultly breathing.
It's important to understand that everyone has different procedures and recovery times. Depending on what was done that day, or if you need to go back, can determine how long you're under the knife, if you need to wear a splint or stay away from exercise and how long you need to rest.
What else do you need to know about rhinoplasty and septoplasty?
Dr. Robert Singer discusses what a deviated septum is, the difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty and what you can expect for the recovery from both.
Few surgeons are as respected by their peers and as esteemed by their patients as Dr. Robert Singer. With an eye for balance and beauty and the skills of an artist, he has helped thousands of people in Southern California and around the world attain the rejuvenated appearance they have always wanted.