Septoplasty vs. Rhinoplasty: What’s the Difference?

Illustration showing how a deviated septum may narrow a nasal passage and how septoplasty can create a more open nasal airway.

During septoplasty, the septum is straightened and repositioned to improve airflow through the nasal passages.

Septoplasty may be recommended for people experiencing:

• Difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose
• Frequent nasal congestion or blockage
• Mouth breathing, especially at night
• Sleep disruption related to nasal obstruction
• Symptoms caused by a previous nasal injury
• Breathing problems that have not improved with nonsurgical treatment

Many people have some degree of septal deviation without noticeable symptoms. Surgery is generally considered when it interferes with breathing or quality of life.



Septoplasty may improve nasal airflow when a deviated septum contributes to chronic obstruction.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty reshapes the external structure of the nose. It can improve facial balance while preserving the characteristics that make each patient look like themselves.



Rhinoplasty can reshape the nasal bones and cartilage to refine the bridge, tip and overall proportions of the nose.

Rhinoplasty may address:

• A bump along the nasal bridge
• A nose that feels too large or small for the face
• A wide, drooping, upturned or poorly defined tip
• Wide or uneven nostrils
• Nasal asymmetry
• An externally crooked nose
• Changes caused by an injury
• Structural problems affecting airflow
• 
  

Rhinoplasty is highly individualized. The goal is not to give every patient the same nose. It is to create a natural-looking result that complements the patient’s facial proportions.

Can Rhinoplasty Improve Breathing?

Yes, depending on what is causing the obstruction.

Breathing problems are not always caused by the septum alone. The nasal valves and external structure of the nose can also restrict airflow. A careful examination is needed to determine which structures may be contributing to the problem.

Why Are Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty Sometimes Combined?

Some patients have concerns involving both breathing and appearance. In these cases, septoplasty and rhinoplasty may be combined into one operation called a septorhinoplasty.

For example, an injury might leave the septum deviated while also making the outside of the nose appear crooked. Correcting only the visible concern may not fully address the breathing problem. Correcting only the septum may not address the external change.

A combined procedure allows the surgeon to evaluate the nose as one connected structure and address both form and function during the same surgery.

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

The right procedure depends on your anatomy, symptoms and goals.



Septoplasty may be appropriate when breathing is your primary concern. Rhinoplasty may be considered when you would like to change the nose’s appearance or when its external structure affects airflow. When both concerns are present, a combined procedure may be recommended.

An examination of the nose’s internal and external structures helps determine which procedure may be appropriate.

During your consultation, Dr. Anand D. Patel will examine the internal and external structures of your nose, discuss your concerns and develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs.

A Nose That Looks Natural and Functions Well

The appearance and function of the nose are closely connected. Thoughtful nasal surgery should consider both, even when one is the patient’s primary concern.

At Viságe Facial Plastic Surgery, the goal is to create a result that feels balanced with your features while supporting comfortable, healthy breathing.

Interested in learning which procedure may be right for you?