Reverse Abdominoplasty for Upper Abdominal Skin

Jan 29, 2026 | Uncategorized

Reverse abdominoplasty is a unique plastic surgery solution for those stubborn upper abdominal concerns that standard procedures often miss. Unlike a typical tummy tuck procedure, which smooths your lower belly, this technique lifts and tightens your skin above your belly button. If you struggle with loose skin in this area, you might find this method especially appealing. Let’s explore how a reverse abdominoplasty works, who it helps, what the surgery involves, and what recovery looks like.

What Is Reverse Abdominoplasty?

A reverse abdominoplasty is a body contouring procedure that focuses on your upper abdominal skin rather than your lower abdomen. It is generally considered when you have already undergone a tummy tuck or when skin laxity is limited primarily to the area above the navel.

Instead of pulling your skin downward, this procedure lifts your remaining skin upward toward the chest. The goal is to remove loose excess skin, fix excess elevated tissue, and improve your upper abdominal contour without repositioning your belly button.

How Reverse Abdominoplasty Differs From a Tummy Tuck

A traditional tummy tuck removes your skin and tissue from your lower abdomen and tightens muscles. In contrast, a reverse tummy tuck works in the opposite direction. Skin is lifted upward, and incisions are placed along the lower breast crease, where scars hide within natural folds.

This method is useful when your abdominal excess loose skin is concentrated above your navel and your lower abdomen has minimal concerns. Some patients may combine both procedures for full abdominal reshaping, but this depends on your anatomy and goals.

Who May Be a Candidate for Reverse Abdominoplasty?

People who experience skin laxity in the upper abdomen after weight changes, pregnancy, or previous surgery may consider this option. It is also considered for patients with excess tissue and excess fatty tissue in the upper abdominal region that does not respond to lifestyle changes.

A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon can help determine whether a reverse abdominoplasty aligns with your needs.

The aesthetic or plastic surgeon evaluates:

• Skin quality
• Fat distribution
• The condition of the remaining tissue

Fixing Excess Skin & Fatty Tissue

The reverse abdominoplasty procedure is all about removing excess skin and fatty excess in the upper abdomen. During surgery, your reconstructive surgeon carefully separates your skin and soft tissue while preserving your vital blood supply. This step is critical for safe repositioning of tissue and healthy recovery.

Some patients may have liposuction added to fix excess fatty tissue, though the main goal remains lifting and reshaping the skin rather than muscle tightening.

The Surgical Procedure Explained

During the surgical procedure, incisions are made along the inframammary fold. This placement allows your aesthetic surgeon to lift your upper abdominal skin upward. The remaining skin is then secured in a higher position, and excess is removed.

A soft tissue sling may be created to support the new contour. This helps stabilize your lifted tissue and maintain the reshaped appearance during the early stages of healing.

Unlike traditional tummy tuck surgery, your belly button usually remains untouched, as the focus is above it.

Importance of Blood Supply & Tissue Handling

Maintaining a healthy blood supply is a priority during reverse abdominoplasty. Careful surgical technique allows the skin and underlying tissue to remain well-perfused as it is repositioned.

This attention to tissue handling supports the healing process and reduces complications related to skin health and recovery.

Reverse Abdominoplasty Recovery & Healing 

After surgery, patients generally wear a compression garment to support the abdomen and help control swelling. This garment also helps your skin as it adapts to its new position.

The healing process involves a gradual reduction of tenderness and swelling. Patients are encouraged to follow post-operative guidelines to support proper healing, including incision care and activity limitations.

Most people return to light activities within a few weeks, though full physical routines are resumed more gradually.

Scarring & Appearance After Surgery

Incisions for a reverse abdominoplasty are placed strategically so scars generally hide beneath the breast crease. With time, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable, blending into natural contours.

As swelling subsides, the upper abdominal contour becomes more visible, showing smoother transitions between the chest and abdomen without loose folds of skin.

Combining Reverse Abdominoplasty With Other Procedures

In some cases, a reverse tummy tuck is combined with other plastic surgeries. For example, if you are undergoing breast surgery, you may find it convenient to address upper abdominal concerns at the same time due to the shared incision area.

These decisions depend on your anatomy, your goals, and professional recommendations from a qualified surgeon.

Results & Body Proportion

The goal of reverse abdominoplasty is not any dramatic change, but improved proportion. Removing skin excess and lifting loose skin can help clothing fit better and restore your confidence in your body’s appearance.

Since this procedure targets your upper abdomen, the results are most striking from the side and front, especially when you wear fitted outfits.

Final Thoughts on Reverse Abdominoplasty

A reverse abdominoplasty is a valuable option for those who are struggling with loose upper abdominal skin that cannot be corrected through traditional methods. By lifting the remaining skin, treating excess tissue, and protecting the vital blood supply, the procedure reshapes your upper abdomen with great precision.

Consulting with an experienced surgeon helps you understand expectations, recovery, and suitability for this procedure.

Explore Body Contouring Options With Jim Brantner, MD

If you are considering a reverse tummy tuck or other body contouring procedures, call Jim Brantner, MD, to schedule a consultation. We offer a range of surgical and non-surgical services designed to improve body shape and proportion. 

We are offering Tummy Tuck, Liposuction, Mommy Makeover, Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Upper Arm Contouring, Thigh Lifts, Body Contouring, Injectable Fillers, and Botox®. 

Call Jim Brantner, MD, today to learn more and book your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of a reverse abdominoplasty?

Reverse abdominoplasty is all about removing excess skin and improving contour in your upper abdomen, especially above your belly button.

How is a reverse tummy tuck different from a standard tummy tuck?

A reverse tummy tuck lifts skin upward, while a traditional tummy tuck pulls skin downward and often involves muscle tightening.

Does reverse abdominoplasty address excess fatty tissue?

It can remove abdominal fatty excess, and some patients may have liposuction added to fix excess fatty tissue.

Where are the scars located after surgery?

Incisions are placed along the lower breast crease, where scars generally hide within natural folds.

Who can I consult in Johnson City for reverse abdominoplasty?

Patients in Johnson City often consult Jim Brantner, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon, to discuss reverse abdominoplasty and related procedures.

Nose Reconstruction Recovery Time

Jan 29, 2026 | Uncategorized

Nose reconstruction is a type of nasal surgery that restores function, structure, or appearance after illness, injury, or previous procedures. Since your nose is the centerpiece of your facial harmony, it is natural to wonder about the recovery process. Understanding what to expect after surgery helps you set realistic goals and feel more confident as you heal. Let’s explore the rhinoplasty recovery journey, the changes you might notice, and simple care tips in easy-to-understand terms.

Basics of Nose Reconstruction Surgery

Nose reconstruction is all about repositioning nasal bones, reshaping cartilage, correcting a deviated septum, or restoring your damaged nasal passages. Some procedures resemble a cosmetic nose job, while others are about structural repair after illness or injury. In both cases, recovery follows a predictable pattern that is influenced by surgical technique, your health, and the following of the surgeon’s instructions.

Because our nose contains delicate skin, cartilage, and bone, the healing process takes place in stages rather than all at once.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Process: Weeks Or Months?

Be aware that the full rhinoplasty recovery time varies, but most patients notice gradual improvement week by week. Initial healing happens within the first few weeks, while deeper tissue changes continue beneath the surface for a few months.

Early bruising and swelling usually appear right after rhinoplasty surgery. As days pass, visible signs decrease, though internal swelling may linger a bit longer. The final shape of your nose becomes clear only after the tissues settle fully.

The First Week After Nasal Surgery

The first week stands out as the most noticeable part of recovery. During these early days, you might experience:

• Facial swelling
• Bruising around the eyes
• Pressure in the nose

A dressing may be placed to support the nose’s shape. Cosmetic or plastic surgeons usually recommend keeping the head elevated, even during sleep. Using pillows or rolled-up towels helps maintain this position. This simple step can help reduce swelling and limit pressure on your swollen nasal tissues.

Cold packs or cold compresses may also be suggested for your cheeks, not directly on the nose. Pain is manageable with prescribed pain medication, and severe pain should always be reported to your plastic surgeon immediately.

Breathing & Nasal Passages During Recovery

It is worth noting that temporary congestion is common as the nasal passages adjust. You may feel blocked breathing due to internal swelling rather than mucus. A saline nasal spray is generally used to keep tissues moist.

Patients are advised not to blow their nose during early healing. Blowing can create too much pressure, which increases swelling or disrupts your internal stitches. Therefore, you should sneeze with your mouth open to limit the force inside the nose.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline: Second Week to Fourth Week

By the second week, you will notice a visible reduction in bruising and nasal swelling. External splints are removed, allowing a clearer view of the new contour. But subtle swelling may remain, especially around your nasal tip.

During this phase, daily routines gradually resume. Light activities are allowed, but strenuous exercise must be avoided. Activities that raise your blood pressure can increase nasal swelling and delay tissue adjustment.

Many patients return to work or social activities within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on comfort and appearance.

Internal Healing & Ongoing Changes

Even when your nose looks settled on the outside, deeper layers continue to heal. Cartilage adjustments to the nasal septum evolve slowly. This is why plastic surgeons explain that the internal healing continues long after surface swelling fades.

If you went through open rhinoplasty, you may notice slightly longer swelling at the tip due to the incision approach. This is expected and improves gradually.

Sun Exposure & Skin Care

Protecting your nose from sun exposure is an important part of nose job recovery. Healing nasal skin sometimes reacts strongly to sunlight, causing discoloration or prolonged redness. Hats and shade are recommended when outdoors.

Too much sun may cause lingering color changes around areas of incision. Sunscreen may be approved after early healing, based on guidance from a facial plastic surgeon.

Diet, Hydration, & Daily Habits

A healthy diet supports tissue repair by providing nutrients that are needed for your skin and cartilage recovery. Hydration helps manage swelling and supports blood circulation.

Also, remember that alcohol and excess salt intake can increase swelling, so they must be limited during the early stages of recovery. Smoking is also strongly discouraged, as it can interfere with blood flow to healing tissues.

Following activity limits and rest recommendations supports proper healing throughout the recovery process.

When to Contact Your Plastic or Cosmetic Surgeon

Mild discomfort and swelling are part of the process and usually nothing to worry about. However, some symptoms need quick attention, including:

• Sudden bleeding
• Sharp pain
• Changes in breathing

All these should be reported to the surgeon immediately. And attending follow-up appointments allows your surgeon to monitor progress and guide adjustments as your nose continues to settle.

Emotional Adjustment During Recovery

It is common for you to feel uncertain during recovery, especially while swelling changes day to day. Your nose may look uneven or larger at first. But don’t worry because these changes are temporary.

Understanding the rhinoplasty recovery timeline helps you remain patient as your nose gradually reaches its refined appearance. As swelling resolves, improvements in breathing, contour, and facial balance become clearer.

Final Appearance & Results

Although early improvements appear within weeks, your nose continues to refine for months. The final shape becomes visible as your deeper tissues stabilize and your skin adjusts to underlying support.

You will feel satisfied as healing progresses and your nose blends naturally with your other facial features. Open communication with the nose surgeon during recovery supports confidence at each stage.

Jim Brantner, MD: Advanced Surgical & Non-Surgical Care 

If you are considering nose surgery or other procedures within facial plastic surgery or plastic surgery, call Jim Brantner, MD, to book a consultation in Johnson City, Tennessee. We offer surgical and non-surgical services focused on facial harmony and body contouring. These include Neck Lift, Brow Lifts, Eyelid Surgery, Rhinoplasty, Facelifts, Injectable Fillers, Botox®, Juvederm®, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck, Breast Augmentation, and Breast Reduction.

Call us today to book your consultation and learn more about available procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does nose reconstruction recovery time usually last?

Initial recovery generally takes a few weeks, with swelling slowly decreasing. Internal healing continues for several months as tissues adjust.

Is rhinoplasty recovery different from other nose reconstruction procedures?

The rhinoplasty recovery process is similar in many ways, though complexity, surgical methods, and internal adjustments can influence the timeline.

Can exercise affect rhinoplasty recovery time?

YES, Returning to strenuous exercise too early can increase swelling and gradual healing. Activity limits should follow medical guidance.

When can I see the final shape of my nose after surgery?

Visible changes appear within weeks, but the final shape may take several months as subtle swelling resolves.

Who should I consult for nose reconstruction in Johnson City?

Patients who are searching for care in Johnson City often schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with Jim Brantner, MD, a facial plastic surgeon experienced in nasal and facial procedures.

Rhinoplasty Inside Nostril Swollen Hard to Breath

Dec 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common nose surgery procedures performed by a plastic surgeon. While the results can improve facial symmetry, it’s not unusual to experience swelling and breathing issues in the first few weeks after the procedure. Swelling inside the nostrils after nasal surgery is common. During primary rhinoplasty, the nasal septum, nasal bones, and cartilage are reshaped, which can temporarily block your nasal passages. This swelling may create nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or other breathing problems. Some patients report a sensation of a tiny pocket of fluid in the nose, which adds to breathing difficulties. Mild to moderate swelling is a normal part of healing. Let’s discuss more about rhinoplasty inside the nostrils, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Causes of Nasal Obstruction

One of the primary reasons for nasal obstruction is trauma to the tissues inside your nose during nose surgery. The delicate skin lining the nostrils can swell. In some cases, improperly positioned tissue or too much cartilage may make nasal breathing harder.

Residual swelling can last weeks or months, which is part of the natural healing process. You may experience breathing issues in the first few weeks, after which the nasal airway problems gradually improve.

Another factor contributing to difficulty breathing is the healing of your nasal septum. If the septum is adjusted during a procedure, swelling can temporarily block one or both nasal passages. You may develop nasal congestion or feel nasal obstruction because of this.

In some cases, a plastic surgeon may use spreader grafts to open the internal nasal valves and improve airflow. These grafts improve breathing but may also cause short-term swelling in your nostrils.

Managing Swelling After Nose Surgery

Cold therapy is a great way to manage swelling. Using cold compresses around your nose can reduce inflammation and may relieve pressure inside your nasal passages. It’s recommended to apply these compresses in short intervals during the first few weeks after the surgery. Keeping your head elevated during sleep can also help reduce fluid accumulation and ease breathing difficulties. For those who are experiencing sleep apnea or fitful sleep symptoms after the surgery, proper positioning and managing nasal congestion are highly important.

Visible Deformities & Revision Rhinoplasty

Some patients experience swelling after primary rhinoplasty or visible deformities. This may include:

• Bumps
• Asymmetry
• A lumpy appearance inside your nostrils

In these cases, revision surgery, or revision rhinoplasty, might be necessary to correct the shape and restore your nasal airway. You should wait until the swelling has decreased as much as possible before considering revision surgery. Minor adjustments can make a noticeable difference in nasal breathing and comfort.

If you have pre-existing nasal bones or nasal septum irregularities, you may experience more pronounced breathing issues after surgery. If you have sleep apnea or chronic nasal congestion, you should discuss these conditions with your plastic surgeon beforehand. Communicating these issues during the initial nose surgery can prevent prolonged nasal airway problems and difficulty breathing issues.

Steps to Minimise Swelling

To minimize swelling you should always avoid in the first few weeks:

• Strenuous activities
• Excessive heat
• Bending over

Activities that increase blood flow to your face can exacerbate residual swelling and temporarily worsen nasal obstruction. You should follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, including medications to reduce swelling and for proper healing. Sometimes, saline rinses or nasal sprays may be recommended to keep the nasal passages clear and ease breathing problems.

In some cases, a tiny pocket of fluid may form in your nostril or along your nasal septum, worsening breathing difficulties.

To manage this, drainage techniques or gentle massage under medical supervision can be done, which can help relieve this pressure. Extreme nasal congestion should be reported to your plastic surgeon, as it may imply an underlying complication that needs urgent attention.

Addressing Too Much Cartilage & Residual Swelling

Too much cartilage left inside your nose can cause prolonged nasal airway problems. During revision rhinoplasty, your plastic surgeon can remove excess tissue or adjust spreader grafts. If you are considering revision surgery, you should understand that even after the procedure, some residual swelling is normal, and the healing process time varies from person to person.

Breathing issues are generally worse at night, contributing to fitful sleep. Keep these things in mind:

• Use supportive pillows to elevate your head
• Avoid nasal irritants
• Practice gentle nasal breathing exercises can help

You will notice gradual improvement as nasal congestion decreases and nasal passages open. This can take some weeks, so patience is your best friend while you are in the recovery period.

When to Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to differentiate between regular post-operative swelling and breathing difficulty, and complications that require intervention. Signs that require medical attention include:

• Persistent bleeding
• Severe asymmetry
• An inability to breathe for more than a few minutes

Consulting a plastic surgeon immediately can address unexpected nasal airway issues and improve breathing outcomes.

Conclusion: 

Experiencing rhinoplasty inside the nostril, swelling, and difficulty breathing are common parts of recovery after nose surgery. Difficulty breathing, residual swelling, and temporary nasal congestion are expected during the first few weeks. Managing swelling with proper rest, cold compresses, and guidance from your plastic surgeon can ease breathing difficulties.

In cases of persistent nasal obstruction, revision rhinoplasty may be required to improve your nasal breathing and correct visible deformities. Monitoring your nasal passages and following medical advice helps promote an untroubled healing process and lessens the risk of ongoing nasal airway problems.

Schedule Rhinoplasty Consultation With Dr Jim Brantner, MD

If you’re experiencing rhinoplasty inside nostril swelling, hard to breathe, or you’re considering revision rhinoplasty to address nasal airway problems, call Jim Brantner, MD, today.

Dr Brantner offers expert nose surgery and a range of procedures, including Breast Lift Procedure, Rhinoplasty, Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Facelifts, Brow Lifts, Tummy Tuck, Neck Lift, Eyelid Surgery, and Injectable Fillers.

Call us now to discuss your options and schedule a consultation for better breathing.

Can Botox Help with Bags Under Eyes?

Nov 15, 2025 | Uncategorized

Under-eye bags are a common concern for many people. They can make you look tired, stressed, or older than you actually are. The truth is, there isn’t just one cause. Genetics, fat pads under the eyes, skin sagging, volume loss, and even sinus issues can all play a role. For some, eye creams or topical treatments aren’t enough, which leads people to wonder: Can Botox help with bags under the eyes? The short answer is: Botox can help in some cases, but it’s not always the best treatment. Let’s break it down so you know when Botox injections may help, and when other treatment options might be a better solution. Keep reading!

How Botox Works

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin, an FDA-approved injectable that works by relaxing muscles. By reducing muscle movement in the treatment area, Botox helps soften fine lines, crow’s feet, frown lines, and other dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions.

When used around the under-eye area, Botox treatments can minimize under-eye wrinkles and soften what’s known as the “jelly roll.” The jelly roll appears when the facial muscles beneath the lower eyelid push up and cause puffiness when smiling. This is why you may hear the term jelly roll Botox or under eye Botox.

But here’s the key: while Botox works for wrinkles and puffiness caused by muscle contraction, it doesn’t remove excess skin, fat pads, or bags under the eyes caused by lost volume.

Can Botox Help with Under-Eye Bags?

So, can Botox injections address under-eye bags? The answer depends on what’s causing them.

If the problem is wrinkles or muscle-related puffiness:

Botox can be an effective treatment. It relaxes the facial muscles around the eyes, smoothing out lines and wrinkles and reducing the appearance of puffy bags when you smile.

If the problem is fat or volume loss:

Botox alone won’t help. In these cases, hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Restylane or Juvederm) may be a better solution. These dermal fillers restore volume in the tear troughs and improve shadows and dark circles.

If the problem is significant skin sagging or excess fat:

Only a surgical procedure like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can provide a permanent solution.

That’s why it’s so important to have an initial treatment plan created by an experienced injector or a board-certified plastic surgeon who understands the many causes of under-eye bags.

Botox for Under Eye Wrinkles & Puffiness

When used carefully, eye Botox in the lower eyelid can help with:

• Softening under-eye wrinkles and fine lines
• Reducing the jelly roll when smiling
• Smoothing mild puffy bags caused by muscle tension

This gives the under-eye area a smoother, more refreshed look, contributing to a youthful appearance overall.

Most patients start noticing results in a few days, with continued improvement over 1–2 weeks. The results usually last about 3–4 months, making Botox a temporary solution rather than a permanent one.

What Under-Eye Botox Cannot Do?

It’s important to know what Botox cannot achieve for your under-eye concerns.:

• Botox treatments won’t correct dark circles caused by thin skin or visible blood vessels.
• It won’t remove excess skin or lift heavy, droopy eyelids.
• It won’t fix deep hollows or tear troughs from volume loss.

That’s where hyaluronic acid fillers, laser treatments, or eyelid surgery may be the right treatment. Sometimes, combining Botox injections with dermal fillers or laser treatments provides natural-looking results for people with multiple under-eye concerns.

How Many Units of Botox Are Used Under the Eyes?

For under-eye Botox, only small amounts are used. The exact number depends on the treatment area, your anatomy, and the skill of the injector performing the treatment. Typically, the number of units ranges from 1 to 4 units per side, which is much less than what’s used for the forehead or frown lines.

This careful dosing is important. Too much Botox in the lower eyelid could lead to problems like droopy eyelids or difficulty blinking. That’s why choosing an experienced injector or a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential for safety and optimal outcomes.

Is Botox the Best Treatment for Under-Eye Bags?

If your main concern is eye bags from fat pads, skin sagging, or excess skin, then Botox may not be the best treatment. Instead:

• Dermal fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers can fill in tear troughs, reduce shadows, and make the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek smoother.
• Laser treatments: These can tighten loose skin and improve dark circles by stimulating collagen.
• Eyelid surgery: When bags are severe, surgery may be the only permanent solution.

That said, Botox helps with dynamic wrinkles and the jelly roll, so it’s sometimes used along with other treatments for a holistic approach.

What to Expect During & After Treatment

Botox injections around the eye area are quick and involve minimal discomfort. The procedure usually takes just a few minutes, and the injection site is tiny. Most patients describe it as a quick pinch.

Afterward, there may be slight redness or swelling at the injection site, but this usually goes away within hours. You can typically return to your normal routine right after. However, you’ll want to avoid rubbing the treatment area or engaging in vigorous exercise on the same day to prevent spreading the product. Results are generally visible in a few days, with full effects observed within two weeks.

Factors to Consider Before Getting Under-Eye Botox

When thinking about Botox treatments to remove under-eye bags, it’s important to remember:

• Other factors, such as genetics, allergies, and lifestyle choices, can also contribute to bags under the eyes.
• No single cosmetic treatment works for everyone.
• A customized treatment plan from a professional is key to getting optimal outcomes.

Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or an experienced injector who can guide you toward the right treatment for your needs.

Pros & Cons of Under-Eye Botox

Here are the common pros and cons of under-eye Botox for bags under your eyes.

Pros:

• Smooths under-eye wrinkles and fine lines
• Reduces the jelly roll for a younger-looking skin
• Quick procedure with minimal discomfort
• Can be combined with other treatments

Cons:

• Only a temporary solution (lasts 3–4 months)
• Doesn’t fix dark circles, lost volume, or excess skin
• Risk of side effects like droopy eyelids if not done by a skilled injector

Final Thoughts: Botox for Under Eyes

So, can Botox help with bags under the eyes? Yes, Botox works well for certain under-eye concerns, especially wrinkles, the jelly roll, and puffiness caused by muscle movement. However, it’s not the best treatment if your eye bags are due to fat pads, volume loss, or skin sagging.

In those cases, dermal fillers, laser treatments, or even eyelid surgery may be needed for a permanent solution. For many people, the most effective treatment is a mix of approaches: Botox injections for dynamic wrinkles, hyaluronic acid fillers for hollows, and sometimes cosmetic surgery for more advanced cases.

The key is finding an experienced injector or a board-certified plastic surgeon who will assess your unique under-eye area and design a safe, personalized treatment plan. With the right treatment, you can reduce puffy bags, smooth lines and wrinkles, and enjoy natural-looking results that give you a fresher, more rested, and youthful appearance.

Treat Your Eye Bags with Dr. Jim Brantner M.D.

Say goodbye to tired-looking eyes and get a refreshed, youthful appearance with Dr. Jim Brantner M.D. Our plastic surgery practice in Johnson City, TN provides advanced techniques to freshen and smooth the delicate eye area, giving you a natural, youthful appearance. 

Depending on the causes of eye bags, we offer Botox, dermal fillers, Voluma, and other treatments to enhance the look of your eyes. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward more vibrant eyes!

Getting Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty: What You Should Know

Oct 30, 2025 | Uncategorized

When people hear about a nose job, they often think of it as a purely cosmetic procedure to alter the appearance of the nose. While that is one reason, many people also choose nose surgery for functional reasons like fixing a deviated septum or other issues that make it hard to breathe. That’s where getting septoplasty and rhinoplasty together comes in. These two procedures can be performed as a combined procedure to address both cosmetic concerns and functional concerns in a single surgical process. Let’s walk through what each surgery does, why septoplasty and rhinoplasty are often done together, and what you can expect from the healing process. Keep reading!

Understanding Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty surgery, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” reshapes the outer shape and nasal structure of the nose. Some people choose cosmetic rhinoplasty to improve facial features, fix a crooked nose, smooth a dorsal hump, or refine the nasal tip. Others need functional rhinoplasty to correct problems that interfere with nasal function and nasal airway support, such as nasal valve collapse or trauma to the nasal bones. There are different types of rhinoplasty procedures:

• Open rhinoplasty: Involves a small incision at the base of the nose, giving the surgeon full access to reshape cartilage and bone.
• Closed rhinoplasty (also called endonasal rhinoplasty): All incisions are inside the nostrils, which may mean less visible scarring and a shorter recovery time.

Which technique is used depends on your anatomy, goals, and your surgeon’s preference.

Understanding Septoplasty

A septoplasty procedure is designed to fix problems inside the nasal cavity. The nasal septum is the wall of septal cartilage and bone that divides the two nasal passages. When the septum is bent or misaligned, known as a deviated septum, it can cause breathing problems, frequent congestion, chronic sinusitis, or even sleep issues.

During septoplasty surgery, your surgeon straightens or trims the septal deviations and septal deformities. In some cases, they may need to remove excess tissue or bone to clear the airway obstruction. If the septum is damaged or too thin, spreader grafts made from septal cartilage may be used to support the structure.

Surgeons may also address inferior turbinate hypertrophy when the turbinates (structures in the nose that help filter and humidify air) are too large and block the airway. Correcting this can significantly improve breathing.

Why Combine Septoplasty & Rhinoplasty?

For many patients, it makes sense to combine the two surgeries. Doing a combined septoplasty with rhinoplasty means the surgeon can improve both form and function in one surgery, avoiding two procedures and separate recoveries.

This combined procedure is often referred to as septoplasty and rhinoplasty or, in casual terms, a “functional nose job.” By combining rhinoplasty with septoplasty, you can achieve both cosmetic improvements and better breathing. Here are some common reasons people choose to combine them:

• Correcting a deviated septum while also smoothing a dorsal hump.
• Improving nasal function while refining the nasal tip.
• Fixing a crooked nose caused by trauma while restoring balance to facial features.
• Addressing airway obstruction from septal deviations and nasal valve collapse, while also making subtle cosmetic improvements.

The Surgical Process of Septoplasty & Rhinoplasty

When you undergo rhinoplasty and septoplasty, the surgical procedure usually happens in an operating room under general anesthesia. The board-certified plastic surgeon or reconstructive surgeon begins with a nasal endoscopy to fully evaluate the nasal cavity and plan the treatment.

The surgical process may involve:

• Straightening the nasal septum.
• Removing or reshaping septal cartilage.
• Correcting nasal valve collapse.
• Reducing inferior turbinate hypertrophy by trimming excess tissue.
• Reshaping the nasal bones or nasal tip for balance.

The length of surgery varies, but it typically takes two to three hours.

Recovery Time After Septoplasty & Rhinoplasty

The healing process after a combined septoplasty and rhinoplasty is similar to recovery from other cosmetic surgeries involving the nose.

• First week: Expect swelling, bruising, and some difficulty breathing due to swelling inside the nasal passages. Splints or dressings are usually removed after about 7 days.
• Two weeks: Much of the bruising fades, and most people feel ready to return to normal activities, though there may still be noticeable swelling.
• One month: Breathing begins to feel easier as swelling inside the nose improves.
• Several months: The nose continues to refine, with cosmetic improvements becoming clearer.
• One year: The nose settles into its final shape, and the full benefits of both procedures are realized.

As with any surgery, there are risks such as excessive bleeding, infection, or, rarely, septal perforation. Choosing a skilled surgeon significantly reduces these risks.

Benefits of Combining the Two Surgeries

Here are the major benefits of getting septoplasty and rhinoplasty together. 

One Surgery, One Recovery

Instead of undergoing two surgeries with separate recoveries, a combined procedure means just one period of downtime.

Improved Breathing & Appearance

Patients can resolve functional concerns like a deviated septum or airway obstruction while also addressing aesthetic goals such as a smoother outer shape.

Better Balance in Facial Features

By refining the nose through rhinoplasty and septoplasty, a surgeon can enhance the overall harmony of facial features.

Cost-Effectiveness

For some, doing both at once is more cost-effective than paying for two procedures at different times.

Who Is a Candidate for Septoplasty & Rhinoplasty?

You may be a good candidate for septoplasty and rhinoplasty if:

• You have a deviated septum or breathing problems.
• You experience frequent congestion, chronic sinusitis, or difficulty breathing.
• You have cosmetic concerns such as a crooked nose, a large dorsal hump, or an unbalanced nasal tip.
• You want to achieve both cosmetic improvements and functional relief in one surgery.
• You have realistic expectations about the outcome.

Other Procedures That May Be Combined

In some cases, surgeons combine nose work with neck surgery or other facial plastic procedures to enhance overall appearance. These choices depend on the patient’s aesthetic goals and health.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Whether you’re considering a simple septoplasty surgery or a cosmetic rhinoplasty, the most crucial decision is selecting the right provider. A board-certified plastic surgeon or reconstructive surgeon with experience in both functional and cosmetic aspects of nose surgery is essential.

Look for someone who is trained in facial plastic surgery and who can balance the need to improve breathing with the desire for subtle cosmetic improvements. A skilled surgeon will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your nasal structure, and guide you through the options.

Final Thoughts: 

Getting septoplasty and rhinoplasty together allows patients to solve both appearance-related and breathing-related issues in one surgery. For many patients, this combined procedure offers the best of both worlds: relief from breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse, along with changes that improve the nose’s appearance and overall facial features.

The healing process takes time, but the results can be life-changing, including better airflow, fewer sinus issues, and cosmetic changes that bring the nose into balance with the rest of the face.

By working with a board-certified plastic surgeon or skilled reconstructive surgeon, you can make sure your cosmetic concerns and functional concerns are both addressed safely and effectively. With realistic expectations and proper care, combining rhinoplasty with septoplasty can deliver long-lasting benefits for both health and appearance.

Aesthetic & Functional Rhinoplasty by Dr. Jim Brantner

Want to improve your appearance or struggling to breathe because of a deviated septum? Dr. Jim Brantner M.D is here to help! Our plastic surgery clinic in Johnson City, Tennessee offers expert rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, neck lift, liposuction, and a whole range of other cosmetic procedures.

 If you want to improve the shape of your nose or fix breathing issues, our certified and experienced surgeons can help you get the best results. Contact us to book your consultation today!