Can a septoplasty change the tip of the nose?

Hello and thank you for your question. A septoplasty should never change the appearance of your nose. Any cosmetic changes to the nose can only be performed with rhinoplasty, in addition to septoplasty. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Hi! A properly performed septoplasty should not alter the tip shape. However, there are always exceptions. If inadequate cartilage is left in place (the "L strut") there can be some drooping of the bridge and tip. Also, in the unlikely event that an open approach is used with a transcolumellar incision, there could potentially be scarring that pulls the tip down. Generally grafts are not used in a simple septoplasty unless a simultaneous rhinoplasty is being performed. Some surgeons place a prophylactic columellar graft (in the bridge that separates the nostrils) if an open approach is used. Hope this helps!Alex Neusner, MDLos Angeles, CA