Many people who look into a nose job are surprised to learn that their breathing could also be assessed – and sometimes improved – during the same operation. A deviated septum is common, and when it blocks airflow, it can be corrected alongside a change in shape. This combined operation is called septorhinoplasty. This article explains when it is considered, how it differs from related procedures and what recovery involves. For a general overview, see our page on rhinoplasty in Antalya.
What is septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty is a single operation that straightens the nasal septum to improve breathing and reshapes the external nose for aesthetic or structural reasons.
The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nose into two passages. When it is bent or displaced – a deviated septum – it can narrow one or both sides. Because the septum also supports the bridge and tip, a crooked septum often contributes to a crooked-looking nose. Treating both together can address appearance and function in one recovery period.
How do septoplasty, rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty differ?
The three terms describe different scopes of surgery:
| Procedure | Main goal | What changes |
|---|---|---|
| Septoplasty | Better breathing | The septum is straightened; outer shape largely unchanged |
| Rhinoplasty | Change in shape | Bone and cartilage of the outer nose are reshaped |
| Septorhinoplasty | Both | Septum is straightened and the outer nose reshaped |
Cartilage removed during septum correction can sometimes be reused as grafts to support the tip or keep the airway open. This is one practical advantage of combining the procedures.
What are the signs of a deviated septum?
The most typical sign is a feeling that one side of the nose is permanently more blocked than the other. Many people have a slightly deviated septum without any symptoms; surgery is only considered when the deviation causes real problems.
Possible symptoms include:
- difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
- mouth breathing, especially at night or during exercise
- noisy breathing or snoring
- recurrent sinus problems or a feeling of pressure
- a nose that looks visibly crooked
These symptoms can have other causes, such as enlarged turbinates, allergies, nasal polyps or a collapse of the nasal side walls. This is why a careful examination of the inside of the nose matters before any decision.
Who may be a candidate for septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty may be considered for adults whose nasal growth is complete, who have a confirmed structural cause for their breathing problem and who also wish to change the shape of their nose. Suitability is always decided at a medical examination.
Before surgery, the surgeon will examine the internal nose, check the nasal valves and turbinates, and ask about allergies, previous injuries and medication. Nasal sprays used long-term, especially decongestant sprays, are important to mention, as they can affect the lining of the nose.
How is the operation performed?
Septorhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes about 2–4 hours.
The deviated parts of the septum are straightened, repositioned or partly removed, while enough cartilage is left to support the nose. The outer nose is then reshaped through an open or closed approach, depending on what is needed. Soft internal splints may be placed to support the septum for several days, together with an external splint on the nose.
What is recovery like after septorhinoplasty?
Recovery is similar to that after rhinoplasty alone, with the addition of more nasal congestion in the first weeks. Most patients travelling from the UK are advised to stay in Antalya for about 7–10 days.
- Days 1–7: the nose feels blocked; mouth breathing is common; internal splints are usually removed within the first week.
- Days 5–8: the external splint is removed.
- Weeks 2–4: breathing through the nose improves as swelling and crusting reduce.
- Months 2–3: most swelling has settled; airflow continues to stabilise.
- Months 12–18: the final shape becomes apparent.
Saline rinses help to clear crusts. Forceful nose blowing is avoided for the first few weeks.
What are the risks of septorhinoplasty?
In addition to the general risks of rhinoplasty – bleeding, infection, anaesthesia-related risks, swelling, numbness, asymmetry and dissatisfaction – septum surgery carries some specific risks:
- septal perforation (a hole in the septum), which may cause crusting or whistling
- a collection of blood or infection within the septum, which needs prompt treatment
- persistent or recurrent obstruction
- temporary or, rarely, lasting changes in the sense of smell
- weakening of support, which in rare cases can alter the shape of the bridge
Not smoking and following aftercare advice help reduce several of these risks. Your individual situation will be discussed at the medical examination.
Is septorhinoplasty the right choice for me?
Septorhinoplasty is worth discussing if you have both a breathing problem with a structural cause and a concern about the shape of your nose. If your only concern is breathing, septoplasty alone may be enough; if breathing is normal, a purely aesthetic rhinoplasty may be appropriate.
Learn more about techniques, recovery and how long to stay on the rhinoplasty page. The right approach for you can only be determined after an in-person examination.
Frequently asked questions
Will septorhinoplasty stop me snoring?
It may help if nasal obstruction is contributing to your snoring, but snoring often has several causes, including the soft palate, tongue position, weight and alcohol. Correcting the septum alone may therefore reduce snoring for some people and make little difference for others. If sleep apnoea is suspected, a separate sleep assessment is advisable before surgery is considered.
Can a deviated septum come back after surgery?
A properly straightened septum usually remains stable, but cartilage has a certain memory, and a small degree of deviation can occasionally return as healing progresses. A new injury to the nose can also cause deviation again. If symptoms recur, the nose should be examined to find out whether the septum, the turbinates or another structure is responsible.
How long will my nose feel blocked after septorhinoplasty?
A blocked feeling is normal for the first 1–2 weeks because of swelling, internal splints and crusting. Breathing usually improves noticeably once splints are removed and swelling eases, often within 2–4 weeks. Some congestion can come and go for a few months, particularly in the mornings or during colds. Saline rinses, as advised by your surgeon, help keep the passages clear.
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery · Medical Director, AYT Clinic
This page is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and expected results are assessed individually during an examination.