HI Doc
I would like to know if a surgery to repair a deviated septum
can improve the shape of your nose. Also i would like to know if a
rhinoplasty is done by Otolanryngologist or an esthetic surgeon....
Thanks Doc....
Reply: -----------------------
A septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed inside the nose to straighten the nasal septum. The septum is the wall that divides the right nasal passage from the left and is composed of cartilage and thin bone covered by a mucosal lining. In the vast majority of cases, surgical correction of a nasal septal deformity will not cosmetically alter the external appearance of the nose. In isolated cases, where the septal deformity is severe, there may be some change in the external appearance since the top of the septum forms the rigid middle support to the lower approximately 2/3 of the nose. In fact loss of the septum as might occur with an injury or other disease processes can result in what is known as a "saddle-nose" deformity seen occasionally in boxers.
A rhinoplasty, or rhinoseptoplasty is an operation which addresses all of the bone and cartilage supporting the nose and has the potential (and in fact is generally intended) to alter the external appearance of the nose. Rhinoplasties or rhinoseptoplasties may be performed for cosmetic and/or functional indications. These operations are performed by otolaryngologists or plastic surgeons.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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