Septorhinoplasty

Septorhinoplasty is a nose surgery that addresses both appearance and nasal function. It typically includes reshaping of cartilage and bone for aesthetic balance while also correcting internal structural issues that can contribute to obstruction, such as a deviated septum or weak nasal valve support.

Not all breathing symptoms are caused by septal deviation alone, so a careful assessment is needed to confirm what is contributing to obstruction and what can be improved with surgery. The goal is usually a balanced outcome that supports both form and function.

Benefits vary based on anatomy, underlying breathing issues and the extent of reshaping required. A specialist evaluation is needed to confirm what is realistic.

• Improved airflow: correction of septal deviation and reinforcement of valve structures in selected cases
• Refined appearance: changes to bridge, tip, nostrils or overall proportions
• Better structural support: stabilizing the nose when support is weak
• Single recovery period: addressing functional and aesthetic goals in one planned operation

It is important to keep expectations realistic. Breathing improvement can be meaningful for some patients but outcomes depend on the cause of obstruction and healing response.

Septorhinoplasty may be considered for patients who have both aesthetic goals and symptoms of nasal obstruction, or for those whose nasal structure requires functional support as part of cosmetic reshaping. Only a qualified specialist can confirm eligibility after an exam and a review of your health history.

• Breathing concerns: persistent obstruction, congestion not explained by temporary illness or structural collapse during breathing
• Aesthetic goals: changes in shape or proportions that can be safely addressed
• Health readiness: medically fit for anesthesia and surgery
• Travel readiness: ability to stay in country for early check ups and follow instructions after returning home

Uncontrolled medical conditions, active nasal infection, heavy smoking or unrealistic expectations can increase risk. Your surgeon will advise based on your case.

Septorhinoplasty plans vary based on the cause of obstruction and the aesthetic changes desired. The surgeon may use an open or closed approach and may add structural support to maintain airway stability.

Exact steps depend on your anatomy and goals, but most septorhinoplasty procedures follow a similar flow. Your surgeon should explain which functional elements will be addressed and how that interacts with cosmetic reshaping.

Septorhinoplasty is most often performed under general anesthesia because it involves both internal and external structural work. The anesthesia plan should be reviewed by an anesthesiologist, especially for international patients who may have different medical records or prior anesthesia experiences.

Early recovery typically involves swelling, bruising and congestion. Congestion can feel more noticeable because airflow is part of the surgical focus. Discomfort is expected, and your clinical team should provide a symptom management plan and clear warning signs that require urgent review.

Preparation for septorhinoplasty abroad includes documenting breathing symptoms and planning a travel timeline that allows early follow ups before flying home.

• Symptom history: describe obstruction triggers, prior injuries, allergy history and any previous nasal treatments
• Medical records: medication list, allergies, chronic conditions and prior imaging if available
• Smoking and nicotine: nicotine can increase healing complications and may need to be stopped before and after surgery
• Medication review: some medicines and supplements can increase bleeding risk and require clinician guidance
• Travel planning: allow enough in country time for check ups and flight clearance, with flexibility if swelling or breathing comfort requires extra review

Do not start or stop medications without guidance from your treating clinicians.

Timelines vary based on technique, the extent of valve support needed and your healing response. Your surgeon will confirm a safe schedule for check ups and travel clearance.

Recovery involves both external healing and internal airway comfort. Swelling and congestion improve gradually, and subtle refinement continues for months.

After returning home, aftercare focuses on protecting the nose, monitoring breathing and completing follow ups. A clear plan for remote check ins is important for international patients.

• Follow ups: remote photo or video reviews to track healing and airway comfort
• Activity limits: avoid pressure on the nose and activities with injury risk until cleared
• Breathing monitoring: note persistent obstruction, collapse during breathing or worsening congestion and report concerns early
• When to seek local care: urgent symptoms such as fever, increasing redness, heavy bleeding, sudden breathing difficulty or severe pain should be assessed promptly

Septorhinoplasty has risks related to both cosmetic reshaping and internal airway surgery. Your surgeon should explain your individual risk profile and how complications are managed.

• Common and expected: swelling, bruising, congestion, temporary numbness, asymmetry during healing
• Possible complications: infection, bleeding, scarring, persistent obstruction, changes in sensation, dissatisfaction with appearance
• Functional specific risks: septal perforation, ongoing valve weakness or the need for additional structural support
• Less common but serious: significant bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, skin or cartilage compromise, need for revision surgery

Following instructions and attending follow ups can reduce risk, but no outcome can be guaranteed.

For septorhinoplasty, international patients often look for destinations where ENT and facial plastic expertise is available, facilities support safe anesthesia and follow ups are scheduled before returning home. Coordination matters because breathing comfort and swelling can affect travel readiness.