Heavy nose cartilage - can my nose be slimmed and my columnella reduced while fixing a deviated septum? (Photos)

Question

I’m interested in a rhinoplasty , I’ve been diagnosed With having a deviated septum a few times due to daily nasal pressure and stuffy nose with swelling. While fixing my septum, I’m wondering if my nose can be slimmed and my columella reduced. Given my nose is cartilage heavy, would I see Significant improvements ?

Kyle Kimura, MD · Answer

Short answer to your questions is yes. You are certainly able to have combined functional (breathing) and cosmetic nasal surgery, though any cosmetic portion will not be covered by insurance. 
I would strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon who can perform both functional nasal surgery and cosmetic rhinoplasty. It is important that you feel you and your rhinoplasty surgeon have a shared vision and that you feel comfortable with the goals of surgery before scheduling.
I hope this helps and best of luck!Kyle Kimura, MD

Erin Smith, MD · Answer

Yes, these a very reasonable goals and can each be accomplished simultaneous to septoplasty! During the rhinoplasty consultation process you can discuss these goals further and many surgeons can show you a simulated image of the intended result. Good luck!

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

In reality, performing a septoplasty is usually a main component of doing a rhinoplasty. So yes, based on your photos, you are a great candidate for a combined rhinoplasty/septoplasty procedure. The nose and tip can be made thinner and columella reduced as well, all while maintaining a natural result. Be sure to see a rhinoplasty expert for consultation.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, you appear to have very thin nasal skin, and this tends to be unforgiving after rhinoplasty surgery insofar as revealing cartilaginous irregularities. If you have severe dissatisfaction with your nasal appearance, and chronic nasal obstruction, rhinoplasty surgery could certainly be considered. I would suggest visiting with several reputable rhinoplasty specialists who offer computer Imaging so you could see what to expect. It is also important that your surgeon be expert in both functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty issues. Wishing you well moving forward. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You can undergo a rhinoplasty and septoplasty.  The boxy tip can be improved significantly and the dorsum can be straightened.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

In general, stronger cartilage leads to a better result. Think skin can be challenging, and weak cartilage is harder to deal with.
You should be able to get a nose that is easier to breathe through and more balanced for your face without much difficulty.

Heavy nose cartilage - can my nose be slimmed and my columnella reduced while fixing a deviated septum? (Photos)

Answers (6)