My smile has changed since I've gotten my septopasty + turbinate reduction! Any suggestions?

Question

Hi! I'm 24 years old, and two years ago I got a septoplasty and turbinate reduction for a deviated septum. Upon consultation, I was told casually that he would adjust the tip of my nose during the procedure and I distinctly remember him telling me he would. Since the surgery, I've hated my smile because my nose looks completely different. I never want to smile anymore. What should I do? Thanks

S. Daniel Golshani, MD, FACS · Answer

The pre-operative communication between patient and surgeon is essential - especiallly in the case of a rhinoplasty and  is usually well documented in the consultation notes.  The operative note by your surgeon should also reflect what was discussed before surgery and documented in the informed consent process. If you discussed and agreed to have a rhinoplasty involving modification of the nasal tip, it should have been discussed with you before surgery and documented in the informed consent process as well as in the operative report.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear ncle1, Septorhinoplasty is a combined procedure the "septo" portion addressing the deviated septum and the "rhinoplasty" portion addressing aesthetic changes. If you were scheduled to have a septorhinoplasty then this would include these aesthetic changes. A septoplasty and turbinate reduction alone are for functional aspects. The surgery that you are scheduled for should be discussed in length at your consultation and then at your preoperative appointment while signing consents this should be further reviewed.  There should be a complete understanding between patient and surgeon exactly what is desired during the procedure and what is consented to. With that said these procedures should not effect your smile so I am presuming that it is the changes in your nose that are the problem. There is scientific research that smiling makes you happier so I would suggest seeking consultation for revision rhinoplasty and see what your options are to put the smile back on your face! Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

My smile has changed since I've gotten my septopasty + turbinate reduction! Any suggestions?

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Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

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My smile has changed since I've gotten my septopasty + turbinate reduction! Any suggestions?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.