Can Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty Be Performed at the Same Time?

Q: I was wondering what kind of doctors perform septoplasty?  Are plastic surgeons the only types of doctors that can perform septoplasty?  I was reading that some health insurance can cover a septoplasty but you have to prove to them that your deviated septum is causing you breathing problems.  Is it safe to get a septoplasty/rhinoplasty together?  Can you get a septoplasty first.. and a rhinoplasty later or will that be considered a revision?  Thank you very much for your time Dr Eppley.

A: Septoplasty can be performed alone (if the only objective is to correct breathing problems) or it can be done in conjunction with rhinoplasty. (known as a septorhinoplasty if both breathing and the shape of the nose are concerns) Most major rhinoplasties always include a septoplasty as the septum provides a source for cartilage grafting which is necessary for many nasal reshaping surgeries. Septoplasty and rhinoplasty are never separated into two stages if one’s intent is to address both function and aesthetics of the nose. Septoplasty may be covered by insurance if there is evidence of significant septal deviation and/or inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana