Can a septoplasty change the tip of the nose?

Question

Hello, I was wondering if a septoplasty could make the tip of my nose droop or change it. If so, what can be done to prevent that ? Do they add grafts in a septoplasty ? Thank you

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If the deviation of somebody's nasal septum is in the very bottom of the septum, septoplasty may result in dislocation of ligaments that naturally extend from the bottom of the septum to the columella cartilage. If that happens, droopiness may ensue. If this is recognized before surgery, rhinoplasty techniques with cartilage grafting may be necessary to support somebody's nasal tip. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

A septoplasty typically doesn't affect the tip of the nose since it focuses on fixing the septum inside the nose to improve breathing. However, if there are concerns about changes to the nose’s appearance, surgeons can use special techniques or add cartilage grafts to support the nasal tip during the surgery. It’s important to discuss any aesthetic concerns with your surgeon beforehand to ensure the desired outcome.

Selcuk Inanli, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.
As far as I can understand from your question when you have an operation only for deviation, no aesthetic change will occur in your nose. but I recommend you to have two operations at the same time, if you want to have an aesthetic operation afterwards, you will be evaluated as revision.
It would be better face to face consultation.
Best Regards!

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Best wishes and good luck.

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

Alex Neusner, MD, FACS · Answer

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

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Yes, absolutely depending on the technique. If the tip supporting mechanisms are disrupted, the tip can fall over time. Grafting and suturing can be done if certain techniques are performed to help prevent tip droop. This grafting usually comes from removed pieces of septal cartilage.

Can a septoplasty change the tip of the nose?

Answers (6)

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