Medical vs. Cosmetic Reasons for Nose Surgery

Surgery to the nose is very complex. It can be performed to correct a functional, traumatic, congenital or aesthetic nose abnormality. It also is very individualized to the needs and goals of the patient. It is a specialized surgery that should be performed by a surgeon with training and experience to correct the nose’s complex anatomy.
At AOO | ENT Specialists of the Rockies, our surgeons have the skills and experience to perform an array of procedures to help address various concerns related to the nose.
What is Nose Surgery?
Nose surgery refers to several different procedures performed on the nose. However, in this blog, we will focus on two of the most common types of nose surgery in the realm of plastic surgery and otolaryngology: rhinoplasty and nasal airway surgery which may include septoplasty, nasal valve procedures, and turbinate reduction procedures.
It is important to understand the distinction between these procedures, as they may be functional or aesthetic. However, they each have distinct differences in their purpose, focus, and outcomes. A simple explanation is that rhinoplasty refers to surgery on the outside of the nose and is often performed for cosmetic reasons, while nasal airway procedures, including septoplasty, refer to surgery on the passages inside of the nose and are often performed to improve upon medical concerns. In some situations, rhinoplasty and septoplasty can be combined to achieve a septorhinoplasty.
Cosmetic Reasons for Nose Surgery
Rhinoplasty is performed to address cosmetic concerns related to the nose. This may include attending to aesthetic issues like hump reduction, tip refinement, or nostril narrowing, as well as enhancing facial harmony through reshaping and contouring the nose.
A consultation with one of our facial plastic surgeons is the first step for patients who visit our practice who are unsatisfied with the appearance of their noses. During this time, patients can discuss their desired improvement, and computerized simulations can be created to help them visualize what their results will look like.
Medical Reasons for Nose Surgery
Several internal procedures may be performed to improve the breathing passages of the nose.
Septoplasty is performed to address a deviated septum or the cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils. It is mostly performed to improve breathing, but it may also help with sinus issues.
Turbinate reduction procedures refer to procedures that modify the shape or size of the normal structure lining the nasal passages. A variety of techniques and technologies may be used for this including microdebriders, radiofrequency, coblation and electrocautery.
Nasal valve surgery refers to modifying the entrance way to the nasal passages near the nostrils due to narrowing or collapse that is affecting breathing.
During your consultation appointment, your surgeon will work with you to understand the underlying issues that are contributing to your medical or functional concerns. In cases where symptoms are caused by inflammation, medical treatment may be necessary. Examples of this may include allergies or sinus infections. However, if anatomical problems such as deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or narrowing of the opening of the nasal valve are the main cause, surgery may be necessary.
When Medical and Cosmetic Reasons Overlap
In cases where a patient is experiencing both medical/function and cosmetic concerns, a septorhinoplasty may be appropriate. For example, many patients choose to correct the aesthetic concerns of their nose at the same time they have procedures to correct the breathing of their nose.
Minimally invasive technologies have been developed that may give you alternative options to surgery. Some popularized treatments include Latera, RhinAer and Vivaer. These in-office treatments can be used to treat issues like nasal airway obstruction or chronic rhinitis in some individuals. It is best to discuss these options with your surgeon as to whether they would be of benefit to you. Insurance coverage is variable.
There are nonsurgical rhinoplasty options such as filler, but these choices may be limited in capability, significant in their risks, and variable in the satisfaction of patients. You should discuss this with an experienced surgeon before considering this option.
How Do I Know Which Procedure Is Right for Me?
To best determine which type of nose surgery is needed, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons at FacesFirst will evaluate patients based on their concerns. Part of this evaluation includes a detailed questionnaire called the SCHNOZ questionnaire. Developed by a team of researchers at Stanford University, it is used to assess both functional and cosmetic outcomes after rhinoplasty surgery. Your surgeon will also discuss your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to ultimately agree on the best treatment plan for you.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more regarding your nose surgery options or to schedule a consultation, please contact AOO | ENT Specialists of the Rockies today. We are proud to serve Denver, Lone Tree, Castle Rock, and the surrounding areas.