Does Septoplasty Change Nose Shape
Septoplasty is a functional surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated septum, one of the most common causes of nasal obstruction and breathing problems. However, one of the most frequently asked questions by patients regarding this surgery is whether septoplasty changes the external appearance of the nose. Questions such as “Will my nose shape change without rhinoplasty?” or “Will I see a different nose in the mirror after surgery?” are on the minds of many patients planning septoplasty. To address these concerns, we have created the content “Does Septoplasty Change Nose Shape” to help you find answers to your questions. By reviewing this content, you can find answers to the questions on your mind. We wish you all good health and enjoyable reading.
Does Septoplasty Change the Shape of Your Nose?
A prominent nose is a condition in which the bone and/or cartilage tissue located on the bridge of the nose protrudes significantly forward compared to the overall proportions of the face. This structure can cause a sharp arch appearance in the nose profile, making the facial expression appear harsher, more masculine, or unbalanced than it actually is. This condition may be genetically predisposed, or it may result from improper healing of bones after nasal trauma, disproportionate development of nasal bones during adolescence, or structural irregularities following previous nose surgeries. The fundamental problem in this type of nose is not just the presence of the bridge; it is the disruption of the balance between the bridge, the tip of the nose, and other anatomical structures of the face. Therefore, evaluation and treatment planning must be based on a comprehensive facial analysis.
Why Do Some Patients Say Their Nose Shape Has Changed?
The main reason some patients only notice a change in the shape of their nose after septoplasty (functional nose surgery) is the swelling that occurs in the tissues after the operation and the biomechanical changes that take place during the healing process. In this context, repositioning the internal nasal cartilages during surgery—particularly correcting curvatures in the caudal (near the tip) region—can reduce pressure on the nasal tip, creating a straighter or more centered appearance. However, most of the time, this feeling of “change” is a temporary condition caused by postoperative swelling making the bridge of the nose appear wider or the tip appear fuller. On the other hand, in rare cases, weakening of the main cartilage support (L-strut) that holds the nasal skeleton upright during surgery can cause a slight collapse of the nasal bridge or drooping of the tip in the long term, leading to a permanent change in shape. Therefore, even if no aesthetic intervention has been performed, patients may see a different silhouette in the mirror as a result of this internal balancing or the illusion created by the swelling.
Situations in Which Septoplasty Can Change the Structure of the Nose
Minor changes in the nasal structure may occur after septoplasty. These situations can be examined in two categories: direct and indirect effects. The effects in question are as follows:
Direct Effects of Septoplasty on the Shape of the Nose
Septoplasty can have direct effects on the shape of the nose. These effects may vary from person to person. These variations can be examined as follows:
- Standard septoplasty does not directly intervene in external aesthetic structures such as the nasal bone, nasal tip, and nasal bridge.
- The primary goal of the surgery is functional; changing the external appearance of the nose is not the objective.
- When performed with the correct technique, it does not cause a permanent change in the external contour of the nose.
- The shape of the nasal wings and nostrils is preserved during septoplasty.
- As long as sufficient cartilage support is preserved, no collapse of the nasal bridge or drooping of the nasal tip is expected.
Indirect Effects of Septoplasty on Nose Shape
Septoplasty also has indirect effects on nose shape. These effects may vary from person to person. To discuss these effects in detail, they are as follows:
- Postoperative swelling may cause the bridge of the nose to appear wider or the tip of the nose to appear fuller.
- Realignment of the septum may reduce the internal pressure on the tip of the nose, causing the nose to appear straighter or more centered.
- Correction of caudal septal deviations may create slight perceptual changes in the position of the nasal tip.
- Biomechanical balancing during the healing process may cause the nose silhouette in the mirror to be perceived differently temporarily.
- In rare cases, weakening of the main cartilage support (L-strut) may result in a slight nasal bridge depression or nasal tip drooping in the long term.
Is the Shape Change After Septoplasty Permanent?
Another frequently asked question after septoplasty is whether the change in the shape of the nose after septoplasty is permanent. In this case, we can say that the permanence of the shape change observed after septoplasty may vary depending on the cause of the change. In this context, if the change is due to post-operative edema and swelling, this condition is temporary; as the tissues heal and the fluid dissipates, the nose usually returns to its original form within 3 to 6 months. However, if a structural correction has been made, such as removing cartilage near the tip of the nose (caudal septum) along the midline, the increased symmetry and new position of the tip of the nose are permanent.
On the other hand, although rare, undesirable aesthetic changes such as collapse or drooping of the nasal tip resulting from weakening of the “L-strut” support that carries the nasal skeleton tend to be permanent and usually require a secondary surgical intervention. In summary, while the surgeon’s strategic positioning of the cartilage skeleton produces permanent results, volume increases due to soft tissue trauma disappear with the healing process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the nose shrink after septoplasty?
No. During septoplasty, no procedures are performed on the nasal bone, nasal tip, or external structures that affect the volume of the nose. Therefore, no reduction in the size of the nose is expected.
Does septoplasty affect the tip of the nose?
Generally, no. Septoplasty does not directly target the tip of the nose. However, in very rare cases, if the septum provides structural support to the tip of the nose, a temporary feeling of softness may occur; this condition returns to normal with the healing process.
Does the nasal bone or bridge change after septoplasty?
No. The nasal bone and bridge structure are not areas addressed in septoplasty. Therefore, there is no aesthetic change in the nasal bridge or hump.
Will there be a difference in my photos after septoplasty?
In most patients, there will be no difference because the external nasal structure is preserved. However, the swelling that occurs in the first weeks after surgery may create a temporary perceptual difference in photographs.
Does septoplasty cause a permanent change in shape?
No. Septoplasty does not cause permanent aesthetic changes. The permanent effect of septoplasty surgery is the improvement of breathing function.
Does nasal deviation improve after septoplasty?
If the external nasal deviation is solely due to an internal septal deviation, there may be a very limited improvement. However, significant nasal deviations definitely require cosmetic surgery.
Does the shape of the nostrils change after septoplasty?
No. Since the nostrils and nasal wings are not targeted during septoplasty, no change in shape is expected.
Does the nose feel enlarged after septoplasty?
Yes, it may feel enlarged temporarily. The main reason for this is the presence of tampons, etc., in the nasal structure after surgery. However, this condition disappears after the tampons are removed and as healing is completed.
