Considering a rhinoplasty to correct a deviated septum that causes sleep apnea. Would a PS or an ENT deliver optimal results?

The decision between a plastic surgeon (PS) and an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for a rhinoplasty to correct a deviated septum that causes sleep apnea will depend on a number of factors, including your individual anatomy, the severity of your sleep apnea, and your cosmetic goals.Both plastic surgeons and ENT specialists can perform rhinoplasty procedures to correct a deviated septum. However, ENT specialists have a more extensive knowledge of the anatomy and function of the nose, and are often better equipped to handle complex cases involving breathing difficulties.If you have a significant deviation of the septum and are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, an ENT specialist may be the better choice for your procedure. We can assess your anatomy, determine the cause of your sleep apnea, and recommend the best surgical approach to correct the problem.If you also have cosmetic concerns about the appearance of your nose, a plastic surgeon may be better equipped to address these concerns and help you achieve the desired cosmetic outcome.Ultimately, the best way to determine the most appropriate specialist for your needs is to consult with both a plastic surgeon and an ENT specialist and discuss your individual case and concerns. We can help you make an informed decision and determine the best course of action for you.

Hi @cory19! I would recommend going to a facial plastic surgeon considering you are correcting the deviated septum and making cosmetic changes. A rhinoplasty in my opinion is one of the most difficult procedures to perform. The skill, artistry, and technique of the surgeon determines the outcome. In my practice, I utilize piezosurgery. Piezosurgery is a more gentle technique that allows for greater precision. Less bruising and swelling is common with Piezosurgery. In a typical rhinoplasty, a hammer and chisel technique is performed leading to more inadvertent fractures. I hope this was helpful!

Thank you for your question. When looking to treat breathing issues and make cosmetic changes at the same time, it would be best to find a facial plastic surgeon who is experienced in performing both septorhinoplasty and rhinoplasty procedures. The surgeries can be combined to address multiple concerns at once and produce the most favorable results with less recovery time.

Keep in mind that rhinoplasty of any kind is one of the most complex of all plastic surgery procedures, requiring experience, skill, and even artistry to achieve an optimal outcome. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon, with expertise in septorhinoplasty and rhinoplasty techniques. They will be able to review your medical and cosmetic concerns and determine the necessary steps to help you achieve your desired results.

You need a surgeon that is just a good rhinoplasty surgeon in general. I would highly recommend finding a well trained plastic surgeon who does rhinoplasty. You should see an actual plastic surgeon (trained in plastic surgery residency and ideally aesthetic plastic fellowship) who specializes in rhinoplasty. Best of luck.

This will very much depend on the comfort level of the plastic surgeon that you consult with. Many plastic surgeons routinely do septoplasty procedures through a variety of techniques and incisions, while others perform mainly cosmetic rhinoplasty. I would be very direct in asking your plastic surgeon the best possible approach. In general, ENT's are adept at accessing a nasal septum through a variety of approaches. It may be possible for your plastic surgeon to coordinate with an ENT if possible to perform the septoplasty at the same time that your plastic surgeon performs the rhinoplasty to ensure an optimal functional and cosmetic result.