What Are the Differences Between Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is primarily aimed at correcting facial symmetry and nasal proportions, while septoplasty focuses on correcting the septum inside the nose and generally addresses functional problems. Both procedures involve plastic surgeons and ENT specialists. The main differences between them lie in their aesthetic and functional purposes.

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Anatomy-Based Differences

Septoplasty primarily aims to correct the nasal septum, which consists of cartilaginous and bony parts covered by mucosa. Rhinoplasty, on the other hand, encompasses a broader structural scope, including nasal cartilage, bones, and soft tissues. Here are the anatomical and physiological features that distinguish these two types of surgeries:

Nasal Septum:

Comprises quadrangular cartilage and bony components.
Covered with mucosa and separates the two nostrils.
Serves as the primary support structure for the nose and determines the nasal projection.

Additional Components Specific to Rhinoplasty:

External nasal valves: Rhinoplasty involves the external nasal valves, which consist of the lower lateral cartilages that determine the shape of the nasal tip.
Olfactory regions: In rhinoplasty, the aesthetic and functional integrity of specialized tissues like the olfactory epithelium is crucial.

Functions Specific to Septoplasty:

Regulation of nasal passage: Correcting septal deviations optimizes airflow through the nasal passages.

Rhinoplasty requires extensive structural changes to correct nasal defects and achieve aesthetic improvements. In contrast, septoplasty focuses on opening the airway and resolving chronic breathing issues.

When is it Applied?

The timing for performing rhinoplasty and septoplasty is determined based on the patient’s needs. It is recommended to perform these procedures after individuals have reached skeletal maturity, around 17 years for females and 18 years for males. Rhinoplasty can be performed on adults of any age when there is a need for aesthetic correction.

For those seeking functional improvement:

Individuals experiencing breathing problems,
Those with a history of chronic sinusitis,
Individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea.

Septoplasty is primarily performed to correct deformities in the nasal septum, which often cause nasal obstruction. The surgery is typically carried out to alleviate symptoms of nasal congestion and restore normal breathing.

For those experiencing nasal congestion:

Airflow problems caused by structural obstructions inside the nose,
Septal deviation resulting from trauma,
Individuals suffering from chronic nosebleeds.

Contraindications for Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty

Rhinoplasty or septoplasty surgeries may not be suitable under certain conditions. These contraindications are critical for both patient safety and successful outcomes. Careful evaluation is particularly necessary for individuals with mental health issues.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Patients with this condition are often dissatisfied with surgical outcomes. Their distress typically arises without any visible defect, necessitating psychiatric intervention.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Individuals with this condition face high operational risks. Diagnosis and appropriate precautions are required before surgery.
Cocaine Use: Cocaine damages the nasal mucosa and adversely affects the healing process. Patients using this substance are expected to abstain for at least six months before surgery.
Tobacco Use: Smoking complicates the healing process and increases the risk of complications. Patients are encouraged to quit smoking before surgery.
Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with a tendency to bleed face increased post-operative complication risks. Comprehensive bleeding history is taken, and medication use is adjusted before surgery.

The conditions of individuals with other health issues are specifically evaluated for both procedures. Surgery under general anesthesia can be risky for patients with serious comorbidities. Age and general health status, which can affect the healing process, are also significant factors.

Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty: Application Techniques and Treatment Methods

Both procedures are tailored to specific indications and differ from one another. The type of anesthesia and application techniques are chosen by the doctor, and separate strategies are followed for each procedure.

Splints and bandages used in rhinoplasty not only shape the nose but also provide protection. In septoplasty, nasal splints and stents are used for support and to help maintain airway patency.

Comparison of Complications

Although rhinoplasty and septoplasty have different goals, they share similar risks of complications. Bleeding is a common issue in rhinoplasty, and various methods are used to manage it:

Epistaxis: It can be mild and managed with head elevation, decongestants, and compression.
Severe bleeding may require anterior and posterior packing.
Rarely, endoscopic intervention or angiographic embolization may be necessary.

While bleeding is not common in septoplasty, it is usually controlled with nasal packing when it occurs. Both procedures also carry a risk of infectious complications. Early postoperative cellulitis may occur after rhinoplasty and responds well to cephalosporins. Infections are rarer in septoplasty and are usually successfully treated with oral antibiotics.

In addition to hemorrhagic and infectious complications, both procedures are susceptible to traumatic complications. Serious conditions such as septal deformities and intracranial injuries can develop in rhinoplasty. Lacrimal canal injuries, bleeding, and epiphora can occur during septoplasty. These issues usually arise within the first few weeks after surgery and often resolve on their own.

Finally, aesthetic and functional complications are particularly significant in rhinoplasty. Aesthetic results may differ from expectations, necessitating secondary interventions. The most common complaint after septoplasty is insufficient nasal breathing following healing.