Functional Rhinoplasty
Septorhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty correcting septum deviation alongside external shape in a single operation — step by step.
What is septorhinoplasty, how is it performed, and how long does recovery take?
Septorhinoplasty combines septum correction (septoplasty) and external reshaping (rhinoplasty) in a single operation. Performed under general anaesthesia in 2–3 hours; same-day discharge or one overnight stay. The septal cartilage and bone are corrected, the nasal valve repaired if needed, and the external nasal structure reconstructed. Recovery: 7–10 days with splint, 3 weeks of social-activity clearance, 3 months for visible settling, 12 months for the final result. Prof. Dr. Hasan Ahmet Özdoğan's approach prioritises aesthetics and breathing function equally.
Indication
Septorhinoplasty candidates typically present with two complaints: nasal obstruction (septum deviation, nasal valve insufficiency) and external appearance (humped, asymmetric, or wide nose). Classical aesthetic-only rhinoplasty in the presence of septum deviation can leave breathing problems behind. So examination + endoscopic nasal evaluation + dynamic valve testing is standard for all candidates.
Minimum age for septorhinoplasty is 16–18, when facial skeletal growth completes. Uncontrolled hypertension, bleeding disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, and active smoking are temporary contraindications. Smoking must be stopped at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Surgical technique
Open (external) or closed (endonasal) approach is selected per case. Open technique uses a minimal columellar incision, providing wide surgical visibility and precise cartilage grafting. Closed keeps all incisions inside the nose — less visible scar, faster recovery. Open is preferred for complex cases (revision, extensive valve repair, asymmetry).
Modern "septoplasty" is used instead of "submucous resection": cartilage and bone are conservatively reshaped, mucoperichondrium preserved. For nasal valve repair, the case-appropriate technique is selected from spreader graft, alar batten graft, flaring suture, etc. External reshaping: hump removal, dorsum reconstruction, tip refinement, and cartilage grafting where indicated.
Process
- 1
Consultation
1 week priorExamination, endoscopic nasal evaluation, photos, visual simulation.
- 2
Pre-op
1 day priorBloodwork, anaesthesia consult, final check.
- 3
Surgery
2–3 hoursSeptum + external correction under general anaesthesia. Same-day or 1-night hospital stay.
- 4
Splint removal
Day 7–10Clinic visit, first photos, home-care protocol.
- 5
Final follow-up
Months 3 / 6 / 12Result evaluation, photo series.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 2–3 hours depending on case complexity. Revision cases can extend to 4 hours.
- Typical cases discharge same day. Complex cases or patient preference may include one overnight observation.
- Modern functional rhinoplasty targets a "corrected" rather than "operated" appearance. The design fits the patient's anatomy and facial proportions.
- During the splint phase (first 7–10 days) breathing is limited by swelling. After splint removal, the septum correction means you breathe substantially better than before.
- Primary septorhinoplasty revision rate is 5–10% in the literature. Revision need can stem from anatomical complexity or unexpected tissue behaviour during healing.
- Typical timeline: arrive 1 day before in Istanbul → surgery day → 5–7 days hotel rest → splint removal day 7 → safe return. Total 8–10 days in Istanbul.
References
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