A Rhinoplasty is a surgery that changes the external shape of the nose. Many people who opt for this cosmetic surgery are unhappy with the way their nose looks to them. A skilled Rhinoplastic surgeon can manipulate bone, cartilage, and skin to give you the exact shape nose that you want.

Sometimes rhinoplasties are done to repair damage to the nose caused by an injury or to improve a breathing defect. A rhinoplasty may be done inside the nose or with an incision made between the nostrils. The surgeon will pull back the skin to readjust the bone and cartilage underneath.

A Septoplasty is a surgical procedure done to repair a deviated septum. A deviated septum is when the bone dividing the cartilage of the center of the nose is twisted and blocks the normal airflow in the nose. Many people don't have completely straight septums but not all conditions require serious medical attention.

Combined with other symptoms such as allergies, congestion, or turbinate hypertrophy, breathing can be difficult and cause sleep apnea as well as other conditions. A deviated septum can be caused by a childbirth injury as the baby passes through the birth canal or any trauma that could have occurred to the nose during childhood or adolescence. As the person gets older the nose continues to grow in that twisted manner.

Also known as a Septorhinoplasty, rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures are often combined and should be done by one surgeon. These two procedures done together allow the surgeon to improve both the form and function of the nose in one shot. The combined procedures are more invasive than a septoplasty done on its own and are done with general anesthesia in a surgery center or hospital. The procedure takes between 1-2 hours and patients can expect to need ample recovery time.

The average cost of rhinoplasty surgery can vary depending on which state or facility it is done in but is about $5,350. That does not include additional costs for anesthesia, hospital stay, prescribed recovery medication, and a surgeon's fee. Some insurances may choose not to cover a rhinoplasty procedure because it is a cosmetic surgery and may not be medically necessary.

Therefore if you are combining the two surgical procedures, you may be required to pay for that part upfront. The average cost of deviated septum surgery in the US according to Costaide is $8, 131. The lower-end being $5,152 and the higher-end $12,633.

However, costs can vary from state to state and hospital to hospital. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of a septoplasty if they deem it absolutely medically necessary and as long as the surgeon and anesthesiologist are in-network with your insurance provider.

In some cases, the patient may have more complexities which may drastically affect the cost of the procedure. For example, if the patient has to undergo more procedures, needs a more experienced surgeon, and needs to prolong his stay in the hospital.

Although the procedure is relatively quick, the recovery time for a septorhinoplasty can be expected to take from six months to a year. After the procedure, patients will generally need to wear a splint or cast on their nose while it heals. Around a week after surgery, the cast is removed and patients can go back to work.

There is usually swelling that will develop under the eye area but will gradually subside over a month. The nose will continue to heal for a year after the surgery is done and regular check-ups will be required during that time.

The best way to speed up the recovery process after a septorhinoplasty is to stay in bed for a few days after the procedure. While you are resting make sure to keep your head elevated, its probably best to sleep with an extra pillow for the first two weeks after surgery. After surgery, you may feel a bit congested but avoid the urge to sniffle as much as possible and don't blow your nose.

The best way to keep your nose clean is to use a moistened cotton swab and warm water or hydrogen peroxide to gently clean your nose when necessary. Make sure not to engage in any strenuous activity until at least 2 weeks post-surgery. Strenuous lifting could lead to hemorrhage and will not only prolong the recovery period but cause additional damage as well. If you wear glasses, you may need to switch to contacts and refrain wearing them for 6-8 weeks after surgery.

There are some risks involved in both procedures such as excessive bleeding, clotted blood that needs to be drained, and numbness in the nose or lip area. It is uncommon but, in some cases of a septoplasty, the symptoms of nasal obstruction continue or return even after the procedure and additional surgery may be required. In most cases, a septoplasty will not change the nose (other than the position of the septum) or the shape of the nose.

To decrease the chances of bleeding and swelling after the procedure, get plenty of rest and make sure to keep your head elevated when you're sleeping. Wear clothing that is loose in the front to avoid causing harm when putting on and taking off your clothes. With a rhinoplasty, there are some additional risks such as scarring, discoloration that doesn't go away, pain that persists, and the possibility of an uneven nose.

One way to reduce the risk factors is to research surgeons before you select someone to operate on you. There are many different types of surgeons who can perform septorhinoplasties. Look for a surgeon who specializes in this procedure for your best bet at optimal results. You also want a surgeon who is recommended to you by other doctors as a sure sign of his skill and professionalism.

Make sure you research the facility where you will have the procedure done and speak to the surgeon in advance and make sure he can explain to you what the procedure entails and you are comfortable with how he responds to your questions and concerns.

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