Can a septoplasty & turbinate reduction change the appearance of the nose at all?

These two procedures will not change the external appearance of your nose. A rhinoplasty would change the external appearance of your nose. Your surgeon should talk to you about possible complications but know that this procedure has been performed numerous times. Perhaps ask your surgeon his track record with this surgery.. this might provide some comfort. All the best!Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Having a septoplasty and turbinate reduction will not change the external appearance of the nose. This is solely a procedure that addresses the internal, functional breathing of the nose. A rhinoplasty is a procedure that addresses the cosmetic concerns of the nose and is frequently combined with a septoplasty. 

 A septoplasty and turbinate surgery are performed for medical necessity to improve air flow through the nose. Both procedures have nothing to do with  changing the shape of the nose. A rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes to change the shape of the nose, and patients must pay for that component themselves. Septoplasty and turbinate surgery is billed to the patient's medical insurance, once medical necessity is documented at the time of the consultation and examination. For more information and diagrams describing the differences between the 2 procedures, please see the video below