Septorhinoplasty Surgery Sydney

Septorhinoplasty Sydney: Combined Nose Surgery for Breathing and Appearance

Septorhinoplasty is a combined surgical procedure performed by specialist plastic surgeons in Sydney that addresses both functional breathing problems and aesthetic concerns of the nose in a single operation. This dual-purpose surgery is ideal for patients in Sydney, Edgecliff, and surrounding areas who are experiencing nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum while also seeking cosmetic improvement.

The procedure combines:

• Septoplasty (Deviated Septum Surgery): Surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum to restore normal airflow and improve breathing function
• Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping Surgery): External nasal reshaping to refine the nose’s appearance, correct structural irregularities, or repair post-traumatic deformities

Many patients throughout Sydney choose septorhinoplasty to address both medical and cosmetic concerns efficiently, requiring only one surgery, one recovery period, and one anaesthetic, making it a cost-effective solution compared to staging two separate procedures.

Septorhinoplasty vs Rhinoplasty vs Septoplasty: Understanding the Difference

Septoplasty focuses solely on the internal nasal septum to improve breathing and does not alter external appearance. Rhinoplasty addresses only the cosmetic appearance of the nose. Septorhinoplasty combines both procedures, making it the optimal choice for patients with both functional and aesthetic concerns.

Deviated Septum: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment in Sydney

What is a Deviated Septum?

The nasal septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into left and right passages. In an ideal anatomy, the septum sits centrally, allowing equal airflow through both nostrils. A deviated septum occurs when this wall is crooked or off-centre, often blocking one or both nasal passages.

Deviated septums can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired through nasal trauma, sports injuries, or accidents. According to medical studies, up to 80% of people have some degree of septal deviation, though not all require surgical intervention.

Deviated Septum Symptoms

A deviated septum may cause one or more of the following:

• Nasal obstruction — persistent blockage, often worse on one side
• Difficulty breathing through the nose — especially noticeable during sleep or exercise
• Mouth breathing — particularly at night, leading to dry mouth and sore throat upon waking
• Recurrent nosebleeds — caused by dry airflow over the deviated area
• Frequent sinus infections — poor drainage due to nasal obstruction
• Snoring and disrupted sleep — nasal blockage contributing to airway resistance
• Facial pain or pressure — particularly around the nose and sinus areas
• Exercise intolerance — difficulty getting enough air through the nose during physical activity
• Noisy breathing during sleep — especially in children with septal deviation

These symptoms can have multiple causes — allergies, turbinate hypertrophy, nasal valve collapse, sinus disease. A thorough clinical assessment by Dr Mohaghegh determines whether the septum is the primary cause and whether surgery is appropriate.

Deviated Septum Treatment Options

While mild septal deviations may be managed conservatively with nasal sprays or decongestants, septoplasty surgery remains the definitive treatment for significant obstructions that impact quality of life. When combined with rhinoplasty as septorhinoplasty, both breathing and appearance can be optimised simultaneously.

The Septorhinoplasty Procedure: What to Expect in Sydney

Dr Mohaghegh performs septorhinoplasty under general anaesthesia at accredited surgical facilities in Sydney. The surgery typically takes 2-4 hours depending on complexity.

Step 1: Functional Correction (Septoplasty Component)

Dr Mohaghegh accesses the internal septum through incisions inside the nostrils (closed approach) or via a small external incision at the columella (open approach). The deviated cartilage and bone are carefully repositioned or removed to create a straight, central partition. Excess septal cartilage harvested during this step is often preserved and used as structural grafts to strengthen or reshape the external nose, eliminating the need for additional donor materials.

Step 2: Aesthetic Refinement (Rhinoplasty Component)

Once the internal foundation is corrected, Dr Mohaghegh addresses external cosmetic concerns, which may include:

• Dorsal hump reduction: Smoothing a prominent nasal bridge
• Nasal straightening: Correcting a crooked or twisted nose (often caused by the underlying deviated septum)
• Nasal tip refinement: Reshaping a bulbous, droopy, or asymmetric tip (see Tip Plasty Sydney)
• Nasal bone narrowing: Creating a more refined nasal bridge through controlled fractures (osteotomies)
• Nostril reshaping: Correcting asymmetry caused by caudal septal deviation

Surgical Techniques: Open vs Closed Septorhinoplasty

Closed septorhinoplasty involves incisions entirely within the nostrils, leaving no visible external scarring. Open septorhinoplasty uses a small incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), providing superior visualisation for complex cases. Dr Mohaghegh will recommend the most appropriate technique based on your anatomy and surgical goals during your consultation.

Dr Mohaghegh selects the surgical approach based on your individual anatomy, the complexity of correction required, and your goals.

The choice is not one-size-fits-all. Dr Mohaghegh will explain which approach is recommended for your case and why during your consultation.

Septorhinoplasty Cost Sydney: Medicare, Insurance and Pricing

How Much Does Septorhinoplasty Cost in Sydney?

Septorhinoplasty cost in Sydney typically ranges from $13,990 to $25,000, depending on surgical complexity, facility fees, anaesthetist charges, and the surgeon’s experience. This is generally higher than septoplasty alone ($10,000-$15,000) due to the additional cosmetic component.

Medicare Rebates for Septorhinoplasty

Because septorhinoplasty includes a medically necessary component (correcting airway obstruction from a deviated septum), eligible patients may receive Medicare rebates and private health insurance benefits for the functional portion of the surgery.

Relevant Medicare item numbers include:

• Item 41671 (Septoplasty): Medicare rebate of approximately $760 for surgical correction of deviated septum
• Item 45641 (Rhinoplasty for Functional Improvement): May apply when external nasal correction is required to restore airway function

Important: Medicare and private health insurance do not cover the purely cosmetic components of septorhinoplasty. Dr Mohaghegh’s team will provide a detailed, itemised quote clearly separating the Medicare-eligible medical costs from out-of-pocket cosmetic costs to ensure complete transparency.

Private Health Insurance Coverage

If you hold private health insurance with hospital cover, you may receive benefits for:

• Hospital accommodation and theatre fees
• Anaesthetist fees
• Surgical assistant fees

Check with your insurer regarding waiting periods and coverage levels. Dr Mohaghegh’s practice can assist with insurance pre-approval.

Am I a Candidate for Septorhinoplasty? Suitability Assessment

Septorhinoplasty candidates typically present with dual concerns: impaired nasal breathing (functional problem) and dissatisfaction with nasal appearance (aesthetic concern). Dr Mohaghegh assesses suitability based on anatomical, medical, and psychological factors.

Preparing for Septorhinoplasty

Before surgery, the consultation focuses on your symptoms, medical history, medications, allergies, any previous nasal injury or surgery, and your expectations. The inside and outside of the nose are examined, and photographs or nasal airflow assessment may be discussed where relevant. Preparation may include reviewing medicines or supplements that can affect bleeding (such as aspirin or ibuprofen), stopping smoking, planning time away from work and exercise, and arranging transport and support after anaesthesia. If there is a functional component, the documentation needed for Medicare or private health insurance assessment can also be discussed.

Septorhinoplasty Recovery: Timeline and What to Expect

Immediate Post-Operative Period (Week 1)

• Internal nasal splints: Soft silicone splints placed inside the nostrils for 5-7 days to support the repositioned septum during initial healing. These create a temporarily blocked sensation
• External nasal cast: Protective thermoplastic splint worn over the nasal bridge for 7 days to protect the reshaped bones and cartilage
• Swelling and bruising: Most pronounced around the nose and eyes, peaking at 48-72 hours then gradually resolving
• Breathing: Initially congested due to internal swelling and splints. Breathing typically improves dramatically after splint removal at the 1-week mark

Early Recovery (Weeks 2-6)

• Most visible swelling and bruising resolves within 2-3 weeks
• Return to desk work typically possible at 1-2 weeks post-surgery
• Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and contact sports for 6 weeks
• Breathing continues to improve as internal swelling gradually resolves

Long-Term Healing (3-12 Months)

• Subtle swelling, particularly in the nasal tip, continues to refine over 12+ months
• Final cosmetic result visible at approximately 12 months
• Full airflow optimisation as internal tissues remodel and scar tissue matures

Note: Recovery timelines vary significantly between individuals based on surgical extent, healing capacity, age, and adherence to post-operative instructions.

Long-Term Results and Realistic Expectations

Septorhinoplasty may improve nasal airflow when obstruction is related to structural factors that can be addressed surgically, and it may change the external appearance of the nose as part of the rhinoplasty component. In the first few weeks, swelling and congestion can make the nose feel blocked; this does not necessarily reflect the final breathing result. The bridge may settle earlier than the tip, and the nose can continue to refine for 12 months or longer as scar tissue matures.

Outcomes vary between patients and depend on anatomy, skin thickness, healing, the surgical plan, previous surgery and general health. No procedure can guarantee a specific appearance, perfect symmetry or complete resolution of every symptom, and some patients may still need medical treatment for allergies or sinus conditions.

Revision Septorhinoplasty

Further surgery may occasionally be considered if breathing obstruction persists, if scar tissue or cartilage support causes problems, or if the patient and surgeon agree that further refinement is appropriate. Revision surgery is usually more complex than first-time surgery, and surgeons generally prefer to wait until swelling has settled and the nose is stable before considering it.

Septorhinoplasty Risks and Complications

All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. Dr Mohaghegh will discuss specific risks relevant to your case during consultation. Potential complications of septorhinoplasty include:

General Surgical Risks

• Bleeding (intra-operative or post-operative haematoma)
• Infection requiring antibiotics or surgical drainage
• Adverse reaction to general anaesthesia
• Scarring (typically internal; minimal with closed approach)
• Pain and discomfort during recovery
• Prolonged swelling or bruising

Septorhinoplasty-Specific Risks

• Persistent nasal obstruction: Inadequate correction or recurrent deviation
• Septal perforation: Hole in the septum (rare with experienced surgeons)
• Altered sense of smell (hyposmia): Temporary or, rarely, permanent
• Cosmetic asymmetry or irregularity: Visible contour irregularities
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome: Result not meeting patient expectations
• Need for revision surgery: Approximately 10-15% of rhinoplasty patients seek refinement
• Nasal valve collapse: Structural weakness causing breathing difficulty
• Numbness: Temporary or permanent altered sensation in the nasal tip or upper lip

Dr Mohaghegh will discuss how these risks apply to you during consultation. Dr Mohaghegh is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with specialist registration in plastic surgery.

Alternatives to Septorhinoplasty

Septorhinoplasty is not the only option. The most appropriate approach depends on whether the concern is mainly functional, structural, cosmetic, inflammatory or sinus-related:

• Medical management: nasal sprays, saline rinses or allergy treatment may be considered when inflammation contributes to symptoms.
• Septoplasty alone: may be appropriate when the concern is mainly a deviated septum and external nasal changes are not needed.
• Rhinoplasty alone: may be considered when the main concern is the external nasal structure and septal correction is not required.
• Turbinate reduction: may be considered if enlarged turbinates contribute to obstruction.
• Sinus procedures: may be assessed when chronic sinus disease is a major contributor.
• Tip plasty: a tip plasty may suit selected cosmetic tip concerns, but may not address breathing issues.
• Non-surgical rhinoplasty: non-surgical rhinoplasty may alter appearance temporarily in selected cases, but does not correct a deviated septum or improve structural airflow.

Why Choose Dr Mohaghegh for Septorhinoplasty in Sydney?

• Specialist Plastic Surgeon: FRACS (Plast) with specialist registration (AHPRA MED0001627149)
• Dual-trained expertise: Advanced training in both functional nasal surgery and aesthetic rhinoplasty
• Edgecliff location: Convenient access for patients throughout Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, CBD, Inner West, and beyond
• Accredited facilities: Surgery performed in accredited private hospitals meeting Australian safety standards
• Comprehensive care: From initial consultation through post-operative follow-up
• AHPRA compliant: Full adherence to cosmetic surgery guidelines and patient safety protocols

Septorhinoplasty Sydney: Frequently Asked Questions

How long does septorhinoplasty surgery take?

Septorhinoplasty typically takes 2-4 hours under general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of both the functional septoplasty and cosmetic rhinoplasty components.

Is septorhinoplasty painful?

Pain levels vary between individuals. Most patients report pressure and discomfort rather than severe pain. Pain is managed with prescribed medications and typically resolves within the first week.

When can I return to work after septorhinoplasty?

Most patients return to desk-based work within 1-2 weeks. Those in physically demanding roles or public-facing positions may require 2-3 weeks off work.

Will I have visible scars after septorhinoplasty?

With the closed approach, all incisions are internal with no visible scarring. Open septorhinoplasty creates a small scar across the columella that typically fades to near-invisibility within months.

How long until I see final results?

While major swelling resolves within weeks, subtle refinement continues for 12+ months. Breathing improvements are often noticeable immediately after splint removal at 1 week, with continued improvement as swelling resolves.

Can septorhinoplasty be covered by Medicare?

The functional septoplasty component may be partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance if medically necessary. The cosmetic rhinoplasty component is not covered. Dr Mohaghegh’s team provides detailed cost breakdowns.

What is the difference between septoplasty and septorhinoplasty?

Septoplasty corrects only the internal deviated septum to improve breathing, without changing external appearance. Septorhinoplasty combines septoplasty with rhinoplasty to address both function and aesthetics simultaneously.

Am I too old for septorhinoplasty?

There is no upper age limit for septorhinoplasty, provided you are in good general health. Suitability is determined during consultation based on medical assessment.

Will septorhinoplasty improve my breathing?

It may, when nasal obstruction is caused by structural problems the procedure can address. A specific breathing outcome cannot be guaranteed, and other causes such as allergy or sinus disease may also need management.

When does breathing improve after septorhinoplasty?

Breathing often feels blocked at first because of swelling, splints, crusting or congestion. It can improve gradually as swelling settles, but timing varies with each patient and the cause of the obstruction.

Will septorhinoplasty change the appearance of my nose?

It can, because septorhinoplasty includes rhinoplasty. The extent of change depends on the surgical plan, your anatomy, healing and your goals.

Can previous nasal surgery affect suitability?

Yes. Previous septoplasty, rhinoplasty, nasal trauma or sinus surgery can affect anatomy, scar tissue, cartilage availability and surgical planning, so the nose needs to be assessed before advising whether revision or combined surgery is appropriate.

When should I seek medical attention after septorhinoplasty?

Contact the surgical team promptly if you have heavy bleeding, worsening pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, increasing redness or swelling, an injury to the nose, sudden worsening of breathing, or any symptom that concerns you. In an emergency, call 000 or go to an emergency department.

Book Your Septorhinoplasty Consultation in Sydney

If you are experiencing breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum, or you have concerns about both nasal function and appearance, a comprehensive consultation with Dr Mohaghegh is the essential first step.

Your Septorhinoplasty Consultation

The consultation process at Dr Mohaghegh’s practice follows AHPRA requirements and is structured to give you a thorough understanding of your options:

1. Initial Assessment — Discussion of your symptoms, medical history, previous nasal injuries or surgeries, medications, and expectations. Internal and external nasal examination. Assessment of whether obstruction is structural, inflammatory, or mixed.
2. Diagnostic Review — Dr Mohaghegh explains the findings, including whether the septum is deviated, whether other structures (turbinates, nasal valves) are involved, and what surgical or non-surgical (non-surgical rhinoplasty – temporary nose reshaping without surgery) options exist.
3. Surgical Plan — If septorhinoplasty is appropriate, Dr Mohaghegh outlines the planned approach (open or closed), expected outcomes, limitations, risks, and recovery expectations.
4. Second Consultation — As required by AHPRA guidelines, a second consultation confirms your understanding, answers new questions, and finalises the surgical plan.
5. Cooling-Off Period — A mandatory 7-day waiting period after informed consent before surgery can be booked.

Not everyone with a deviated septum needs surgery. Your consultation includes a discussion of non-surgical alternatives where appropriate.

Contact Dr Mohaghegh in Edgecliff Sydney Practice Today:

Phone: 1300 074 466
Email: hello@drmohaghegh.com.au
Address: Shop 1/161 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff NSW 2027

Book Your Consultation Online

Dr Mohammad Hassan Mohaghegh is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (AHPRA Registration: MED0001627149) with specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery. Consultations available for patients throughout Sydney, including Eastern Suburbs, CBD, North Shore, Inner West, and regional NSW.