Can Rhinoplasty and Blepharoplasty Surgeries Be Combined?

Q:  Dr. Eppley, I am a 46 year-old female. I would like to get an upper and lower blepharoplasty. However, I have problems with my nose due to a sinusitis and a collapsed septum. I got an x ray last week and the doctor said I have a deviated septum as well as thickening of turbines. I have been on antibiotics for five  days. This problem wears me out a lot. I am often tired with headaches and my face always looks puffy due to continous allergy symptoms.  My question Dr Eppley is what do you suggest for me to have first or not to have- a Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty to correct the nose issue and then a blepharoplasty? Please doctor I would appreciate your advise. I found your website very helpful, thank you again.

A: There is no question that septorhinoplasty and blepharoplasty can be performed together. This is not a technical nor a safety issue. It is an issue exclusively of how much recovery do you want and how long can you tolerate (socially and workwise) the way you will look during this recovery. When combining rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty the swelling and bruising around the lower eyes can be quite severe, particularly when nasal osteotomies are performed. Otherwise, there is no reason why the two facial procedures can not be performed together. There may also be other advantages beyond one single recovery period for combining them, such as cost.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana