Many patients who are looking for nose reconstruction often ask about the differences between rhinoplasty vs septoplasty. While both of these plastic surgery procedures involve the nose, they solve two very different problems. The right plastic surgeon will be able to understand your specific needs and recommend the right procedure for you. In your initial consultation, you will discuss your goals for changing your nose with the surgeon and review your options. However, before this consultation, it helps to do a little homework to better understand your choices. Making the best decision for your health requires a general understanding of each procedure so you and your plastic surgeon can achieve your goals together. Read on to learn more about the main differences between rhinoplasty vs septoplasty.

Rhinoplasty vs Septoplasty: The Key Difference

In short, the main difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty lies with the purpose of the procedure. While performing rhinoplasty, the plastic surgeon focuses on changing the outward appearance of the nose, making the purpose of the procedure cosmetic. The patient is looking to achieve a different aesthetic, improving self-esteem and symmetry of the face. On the other hand, a plastic surgeon performing a septoplasty is focused on the function of the nose. Typically, a patient who needs septoplasty may suffer from a deviated septum or general breathing issues. This surgery focuses on any structural issues with the nose that impair function.

Rhinoplasty: Procedure & Costs Breakdown

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that focuses on changing the appearance of the patient’s nose. Sometimes referred to as a “nose job,”  a patient will undergo this procedure simply to change the aesthetic of the face.

Procedure overview

There are two different approaches to performing a rhinoplasty: a closed procedure or an open procedure. During a closed procedure, the surgeon hides the inside the nose. When using an open procedure, the surgeon makes the incision across the columella, which is the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. The surgeon typically chooses which approach to take based on the patient’s desired results.

After the incision is made, the surgeon then raises the skin that covers the nasal bones and cartilages. This allows access to reshape the structure of the nose. A patient with a larger nose who is hoping to make it smaller may require bone or cartilage removal. A patient who is looking to change the shape also may require the addition of cartilage grafts.

What does rhinoplasty cost?

According to 2018 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a rhinoplasty is $5,350. It is important to note that this number only represents part of the total cost of rhinoplasty. Other variables that affect the final cost of the procedure include the following.

  • Anesthesia
  • Operating room expenses
  • Surgeon’s fee

Note that the surgeon’s fee will vary based on the doctor’s experience, location, and the method or approach the surgeon takes for the procedure.

Septoplasty: Procedure & Cost Breakdown

Septoplasty is a procedure that improves a patient’s breathing by correcting a deviated septum. A deviated septum occurs when the wall between the two sides of the nose becomes crooked, most commonly due to an injury or trauma during birth. A mildly deviated septum is most common, however, some patients do suffer from continuous blockage of one side of the nose. Septoplasty straightens a deviated septum, creating an open airway for nasal breathing.

Procedure overview

Typically, with septoplasty, the plastic surgeon makes the incisions within the nasal cavity. For difficult septoplasties or those performed during rhinoplasty procedures, a small incision is made across the columella. Then, the surgeon lifts the membrane that covers the surface of the septum from the septum at one side and then the other. Finally, the surgeon removes or repositions the deviated septum bone.

What does septoplasty cost?

According to MDsave, the average cost of a septoplasty ranges from $2,100 to $5,612. Similarly to a rhinoplasty, this number only represents a part of the cost of the procedure. Other variables that affect the final cost include anesthesia, operating room expenses, and the surgeon’s fee.

The only difference between the cost of a septoplasty vs rhinoplasty is that insurance may cover your septoplasty. Because it is a medical procedure that fixes the functionality of your nose and addresses a serious health concern, health insurance may cover your procedure. Reach out to your provider to learn more about how insurance can help you pay for your septoplasty procedure.

Learn More with a Top NJ Plastic Surgeon

If you are looking to have a rhinoplasty to fix any cosmetic concerns or a septoplasty to address breathing issues, finding the right surgeon is crucial. The best doctor for you will have experience with the procedure you are looking for and he or she will be able to answer all of your questions. Dr. Anthony Berlet serves the northern New Jersey and New York City area, helping patients with both rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures. For over 20 years, he has helped patients achieve their goals. Reach out to our team to learn more!