Rhinoplasty Essay

507 Words2 Pages

Rhinoplasty is the most common cosmetic surgery procedure. However, many people are often confused regarding the difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty. Although both surgical operations are related to the nose, septoplasty is particularly done to repair a defect in a specific part of the nose - the septum.

Purpose of Operation

In terms of purpose, rhinoplasty is done to increase or reduce the size of the nostrils, enhance the nasal tip, or to add shape to the nasal bridge. With this, it is clear that rhinoplasty covers most of the aesthetic purpose of a nose job. Septoplasty on the other-hand is done to align a deviated septum, or to repair a bent septum perhaps due to an accident or congenital defect. Sometimes, septoplasty is also …show more content…

To prevent excessive blood loss, nasal packs are inserted inside the nose until bleeding is controlled. It might therefore be necessary to breathe through the mouth after the surgery.

Post-surgical Expectations

After rhinoplasty, you can immediately go home for recovery. The same situation applies after septoplasty. Common discomforts after both operations include swollen nose and headaches. Nasal packs used in rhinoplasty are taken after 3 to 5 days; nasal packs used in septoplasty are usually taken 24- 36 hours after the surgery.

Full recovery following rhinoplasty takes effect within six weeks. Wound healing might be slower in rhinoplasty than in septoplasty. The tip of the nose might still be swollen two weeks after rhinoplasty, and breathing might be uncomfortable. In septoplasty, swelling usually subsides a week after surgery and breathing is significantly improved.

From the comparison above, we can conclude that rhinoplasty deals more on the cosmetic enhancement whereas septoplasty deals with correcting a medical condition. However, it is important to note that both surgical procedures do have common risks and complications. Some of the common complications to watch out are recurrent bleeding, and

Open Document