Your nose is one of your most important and distinguishing features. It can have a profound impact on both the appearance and function of your face. As a facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Siegel regularly performs nose reshaping. We offer both rhinoplasty and septoplasty to enhance your nose. Rhinoplasty addresses cosmetic nasal concerns, while septoplasty corrects the inner workings of the nose, its septum (the tissue that divides the nostrils). How can you determine if one of these may be right for you? Take our quiz below.
Are you unhappy with size, shape, or symmetry of your nose?
If you feel self-conscious about the look of your nose, Dr. Siegel can perform rhinoplasty to sculpt your bone, tissue, and cartilage. He will customize your procedure according to your particular preferences.
Do you ever have trouble breathing through your nose?
You may have difficulty breathing because your septum is deviated, blocking air from passing through your nostrils. If you often find yourself breathing through your mouth or not getting enough oxygen, Dr. Siegel will examine your nose to determine if your septum is deviated. If it is, a septoplasty can help remedy this medical issue.
Do you suffer from nasal congestion or infection?
A deviated septum can also cause congestion and sinusitis. Dr. Siegel will assess your nose to establish whether or not a deviated septum or another nasal issue is creating these symptoms, and recommend a septoplasty if it is.
Does your nose bleed frequently?
This condition, technically called epistaxis, is often a symptom of a deviated septum, in which case a septoplasty would be appropriate.
Are you at least 16 years old?
To undergo either rhinoplasty or septoplasty, you should be at least 16 years old. If your nose is not fully developed at the time of your surgery, this could interfere with your results.
Are you in good health?
Anyone wishing to undergo plastic surgery should be free of immune compromising, chronic, or life-threatening conditions, as these could increase your risk for complications and side effects.
Do you smoke?
In addition to their many other detrimental effects, tobacco products contain nicotine, an addictive compound that prevents your blood vessels from functioning properly. Smoking can lengthen your recovery time and increase your chances for complications. Dr. Siegel recommends that patients stop smoking for at least one month before and after both rhinoplasty and septoplasty.
Do you have realistic expectations for your results?
No matter which procedure you undergo, it’s important to maintain a positive outlook and realistic expectations for your outcomes. Dr. Siegel will help you better understand your potential results at your initial consultation and will work closely with you throughout the process to keep you informed.
Would you like to combine procedures?
Many patients choose to undergo both septoplasty and rhinoplasty, simultaneously repairing the nose’s structure and enhancing its appearance. If you would like to pursue both, Dr. Siegel will create a customized surgical plan to suit your medical needs and aesthetic wishes.
Who will your surgeon be?
For both septoplasty and rhinoplasty, working with a qualified plastic surgeon is paramount. An experienced practitioner can help you pick the right procedure, utilize the appropriate techniques, and deliver excellent results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial treatments, Dr. Siegel has the experience and expertise to help you successfully reshape your nose.
We Can Help You Decide
Are you still unsure about rhinoplasty, septoplasty, or both? Dr. Siegel and our team would be delighted to help you decide! To learn more about these surgeries or schedule a consultation, contact our Houston facial plastic surgery office today.