Can a Rhinoplasty Do Anything Else Besides Reshape My Nose?
Nose reshaping is what likely comes to mind when you hear the term rhinoplasty. But can a rhinoplasty do anything else besides reshape your nose?
Many patients undergo rhinoplasty to correct a functional issue versus a cosmetic one. While numerous rhinoplasty procedures are done for cosmetic reasons, rhinoplasty serves a functional purpose for many patients, especially those who suffer from a deviated septum.
Functional Rhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty, or septoplasty, is performed to correct a deviated septum or blockage that prevents the patient from breathing properly. A deviated septum can cause sleep apnea and snoring issues. The septum is the cartilage that divides the left and right nasal passages. If it is deviated or twisted, breathing can be severely inhibited.
Additional candidates for septoplasty are those with internal/external valve collapse. Once the rhinoplasty procedure has been completed, patients are expected to experience improved sleep and airflow, thus alleviating breathing problems.
What to Expect
A functional rhinoplasty may be performed under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Incisions are made to the underlying cartilage and bone. Rhinoplasty can be performed as a closed procedure, where incisions are concealed inside the nose, or an open procedure, where an incision is made across the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.
The skin covering the nasal bones and cartilages is slightly raised, allowing access to modify the structure of the nose.
Recovery
Rhinoplasty has a short recovery period. Patients experience minor pain and soreness, and possible discomfort due to swelling and facial bruising. Most patients resume normal work or school schedules approximately a week post-surgery. Functional rhinoplasty is a safe procedure that can transform your quality of life.
Benefits
An improvement in nasal airflow is the key benefit of a functional rhinoplasty. The procedure may also straighten the nose, repair post-traumatic or congenital deformities, and improve appearance.
Breathing easier with functional rhinoplasty
To determine if you’re a good candidate for a functional rhinoplasty procedure, please call Song Plastic Surgery at (949) 701-4454. We can also be reached through our online request form.
