What is the difference between septoplasty and septorhinoplasty?

Septoplasty corrects the septum to improve breathing. Septorhinoplasty does that and also reshapes the outside of the nose, treating function and appearance together.

Will septorhinoplasty definitely improve my breathing?

It aims to, by correcting a deviated septum, but outcomes cannot be guaranteed and breathing is a recognised risk area in nose surgery. Your surgeon assesses your case and explains what to expect.

Can I have the functional and cosmetic parts done together?

Often yes - combining them in one operation is common and can make use of septal cartilage for support. Whether it is appropriate for you is decided at assessment.

Septorhinoplasty (functional and aesthetic)

Function and shape together

[01]

The functional part (septoplasty)

Correcting a deviated septum, which can cause a blocked nose or difficulty breathing.

[02]

The aesthetic part (rhinoplasty)

Reshaping the bridge, tip or overall profile, in balance with the rest of the face.

Because the septum also provides support and can supply cartilage grafts, treating both together often makes sense - your surgeon will assess whether it is appropriate for you.

Is it available on the NHS?

Surgery purely to change appearance is not usually funded by the NHS, but a functional problem such as difficulty breathing may be assessed by the NHS on its own merits. Combining functional and cosmetic goals privately is a personal decision - see the cost comparison.

What to consider

A clear assessment of both the breathing issue and your aesthetic goals
The risks - including that breathing can be affected as well as improved
Your aftercare and recovery, since congestion is expected early on

FAQ

What is the difference between septoplasty and septorhinoplasty?: Septoplasty corrects the septum to improve breathing. Septorhinoplasty does that and also reshapes the outside of the nose, treating function and appearance together.
Will septorhinoplasty definitely improve my breathing?: It aims to, by correcting a deviated septum, but outcomes cannot be guaranteed and breathing is a recognised risk area in nose surgery. Your surgeon assesses your case and explains what to expect.
Can I have the functional and cosmetic parts done together?: Often yes - combining them in one operation is common and can make use of septal cartilage for support. Whether it is appropriate for you is decided at assessment.