Could a deviated septum surgery alone (without rhinoplasty) improve nose appearance? (photo)

Typically, a septoplasty will not affect the outside appearance of a nose. Especially when it is done to fix a "mildly" deviated septum. On the other hand, some nasal deviations do require septoplasty in addition to osteotomies during a rhinoplasty to straighten the nose. It sounds like you would be a candidate for a septo-rhinoplasty to address functional and aesthetic issues. Good luck. MG

The septoplasty will not change the hump on the nose, if there is a deviation in the front view from the septal deviation, then that may be improved, but most of the times, there are asymmetries between the lower lateral cartilages, besides the septal deviation, that can make the nose look deviated. In most of the patients besides a septoplasty a rhinoplasty is also needed to make the nose look more straight and with a better appearance. 

Septoplasty alone should not change the appearance of the nose. although it should be noted that nasal collapse can happen in aggressive septal resection. 

No, a septoplasty is
solely intended to correct problems associated with a deviated septum. The
septoplasty procedure is directed at the internal structure of your nose and
will therefore have no affect on the appearance of your nose. If you are
concerned with changing the way your nose looks, a septorhinoplasty is an option
to consider.

A septoplasty can change nasal appearance. Depending upon where the septum is twisted, straightening it can also straighten the nose. But the kind of change you are talking about, removing a nasal bump and smoothing the profile, is not accomplished by septoplasty. You are right - it needs a rhinoplasty.  These two operations are commonly done at the same time. It is important, as in all surgeries, to be sure that your surgeon is experienced in both.

 A rhinoplasty, and a septoplasty are 2 completely separate operations and are done for completely different purposes. A septoplasty is performed to improve air flow through the nose when there is a deviated septum present and is performed for medical necessity that must be documented in the office. A septoplasty is not performed for a mild deviation of the septum. The rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes, and must be paid for by the patient themselves. Straightening the nose and reducing the dorsal hump can be accomplished with a cosmetic closed rhinoplasty procedure. For more information and explanation of the differences between the 2 procedures, please see the video below

Dear Nottellingya, A Septorhinoplasty would be your surgery of choice  to correct both function and appearance. This is a combined procedure of septoplasty and rhinoplasty.  The "septo" portion addresses the function of the nose while the "rhinoplasty" portion addresses your concerns of aesthetics. During the procedure the septum would be corrected as well as your aesthetic concerns of reducing the hump and straightening your nose ultimately allowing you a well balanced profile and improved breathing. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.