Septoplasty concerns

I used to have a perfect petite nose as as child and then my septum deviated to a severity that it was impossible to breathe out of my nose. Aside from that, it caused my nose to become massive and ugly. Two years ago I had corrective surgery that included turbinate reduction, removing bone obstructing the sinuses natural passage and a septoplasty. After about a year and a half or so, the septoplasty failed and I had to get it fixed again at the end of July '10. The size of my nose has dramatically changed, but it is still large and unsightly--the tip is assymetrical and the dorsal bone is very prominent. I was just wondering if the healing process of a septoplasty is longer than the 3-4 months my doctor said. Also, I was wondering if the mentioned deformities are a part of swelling and will go away. I would love some input because I'm seriously considering giving up, finding another doctor and getting a rhinoplasty to end this nonstop humiliation.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Septoplasty is a procedure that corrects septal deviation that often causes nasal obstruction.  Rhinoplasty is a separate procedure that alters the shape of the nose.  They can be performed together, often in patients with a deviated nose or in patients who have a desire for nasal shape alternation in conjunction with correction of nasal obstruction. If you have had both procedures and are are still dissatisfied with nasal shape, this should be discussed with your surgeon.  A secondary procedure for additional nasal shape change might be considered, although there is no certainty that you can achieve the exact shape change you desire.