I had a septoplasty 6 months ago and it changed the appearance of my nose in a negative way - can the change be reversed?

Question

A septoplasty changed the appearance of my nose and has actually made me less attractive - I would have never done it had I known it would change my appearance (the dr. said it wouldn't). Since it only affected the angle of the bottom half of my nose - is there a way to reverse the change without resorting to rhinoplasty (which I don't want). Can the initial deviation be created again, like a reverse septoplasty? Or is there no way to recreate the deviation, thus restoring the appearance?

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Kickflip;
One of the issues always coming up is how much change
there may be on the external look of the nose when a nasal septoplasty -- an internal operation done on the septum, usually to improve the
airway -- is performed. It's important to
understand that all nasal parts, when changed, may affect other parts. Plus, the septum position can have a profound effect on the outside appearance of
the nose. I would need to see photographs
to give you an even more informed answer, but if you are not happy with the
appearance, then certainly a revision septoplasty is in order. But -- and this is
important -- you must give the doctor permission to at least examine
the portion of the nose which has a bearing on the external appearance. To separate the operative procedure known as
rhinoplasty from the procedure known as septoplasty is not always
wise. The surgeon should be given a full
free hand to operate as needed because, obviously, the septoplasty did affect the
outside appearance of your nose. Getting the complete anatomical layout
before the surgeon’s eyes is very important.
When you return to see your surgeon, ask if it is possible that performing the septoplasty by itself had an adverse effect
on the outside appearance of the nose. Also ask if certain cartilaginous and bony components to
the outside appearance must now be reexamined and possibly altered to give you
the best possible nose?
You made no mention of any breathing issue, so I assume
that's okay and does not require any further surgery.
Best wishes,
Robert
Kotler, MD, FACS

Scott Shadfar, MD · Answer

Hello kickflip, Without examining you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and discussing the pros and cons of any further treatments it is difficult to be comprehensive.Septoplasty typically involves removing crooked or deviated portions of cartilage. Sometimes these portions can be replaced if they are straight or straightened during the surgery.Reshaping the angle around the bottom of the nose can be accomplished with filler but these are temporary measures. The definitive way to accomplish this is a Rhinoplasty.I would find a facial plastic surgeon around your area to assist in guiding you through your options once they examine you.Best of luck, Dr. S

I had a septoplasty 6 months ago and it changed the appearance of my nose in a negative way - can the change be reversed?

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I had a septoplasty 6 months ago and it changed the appearance of my nose in a negative way - can the change be reversed?

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.