It can also improve the aesthetics of the nose by correcting a crooked appearance or improving the shape of the nose.

Are you constantly bothered by your crooked or asymmetrical nose? If so, you’re not alone! Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a ‘nose job,’ is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world. But did you know that rhinoplasty can also be performed for functional purposes? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of functional rhinoplasty and learn how it can improve both your appearance and breathing abilities. Get ready to breathe easy and love the way you look!

What is Functional Rhinoplasty?

A functional rhinoplasty is a type of surgery that is performed to improve the function of the nose. This includes improving breathing, correcting a deviated septum, and reducing sinus infections. It can also improve the aesthetics of the nose by correcting a crooked appearance or improving the shape of the nose.

Rhinoplasty, also known as a ‘nose job,’ is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reshapes the nose for aesthetic purposes. However, rhinoplasty can also be performed to address functional issues with the nose, such as breathing difficulties, sinus problems, or snoring. This type of rhinoplasty is called functional rhinoplasty.

What is Functional Rhinoplasty?

Functional rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the function of the nose while also enhancing its appearance. The procedure can address a range of functional issues, such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or collapsed nasal valves.

A deviated septum occurs when the wall between the nostrils is crooked or displaced, making breathing difficult. Enlarged turbinates, which are small structures inside the nose, can also obstruct the airway and cause breathing problems. Collapsed nasal valves occur when the tissues that support the nasal passages weaken, leading to airway obstruction.

Functional rhinoplasty can correct these issues by repositioning or reshaping the nasal structures to improve airflow and reduce obstruction. The procedure can also improve the overall appearance of the nose by correcting any cosmetic issues, such as a hump on the bridge of the nose or a drooping tip.

Who is a Candidate for Functional Rhinoplasty?

Candidates for functional rhinoplasty are individuals who have functional issues with their nose that affect their ability to breathe properly. The procedure is also suitable for those who have cosmetic concerns that they wish to address at the same time.

To determine if functional rhinoplasty is the right option, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is necessary. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient’s nose and discuss their goals for the procedure.

Functional Rhinoplasty Procedure

Functional rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take two to four hours to complete. The specific techniques used during the procedure will depend on the patient’s unique needs.

In general, the procedure involves making incisions inside the nose or on the outside of the nose, depending on the extent of the surgery. The surgeon will then reshape the nasal structures to improve airflow and correct any cosmetic concerns. The incisions are closed with sutures, and a splint is placed on the nose to support the new shape.

Recovery and Results

After the procedure, patients can expect to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days. The splint is typically removed after a week, and patients can usually return to work or school after two weeks.

The full results of functional rhinoplasty can take several months to become apparent as the swelling subsides. However, most patients notice an improvement in their breathing immediately after the procedure.

Functional rhinoplasty can significantly improve the function of the nose while also enhancing its appearance. By addressing both form and function, patients can achieve a better quality of life and increased confidence in their appearance. If you are experiencing functional issues with your nose, functional rhinoplasty may be the right solution for you.

Benefits of Functional Rhinoplasty

There are many benefits of functional rhinoplasty, including:

1. Improving breathing: When the nose is obstructed, it can make breathing difficult. Functional rhinoplasty can help to improve airflow and therefore improve breathing.

2. Correcting a deviated septum: A deviated septum is a common cause of nasal obstruction. By correcting the septum, functional rhinoplasty can significantly improve nasal function.

3. Removing nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are growths that can occur in the nose and cause obstruction. They can be removed with functional rhinoplasty, resulting in improved nasal function.

4. Improving sinus drainage: Functional rhinoplasty can improve sinus drainage by correcting any blockages or abnormalities in the nasal passages. This can lead to reduced sinus infections and improved overall health.

Reasons to Consider Functional Rhinoplasty

If you are considering functional rhinoplasty, there are a few things you should take into account. First and foremost, is your health. If you have any medical conditions that could complicate surgery or make it risky, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. Other reasons to consider functional rhinoplasty include:

– You have trouble breathing through your nose due to a deviated septum or other issue
– You have suffered an injury that has resulted in a blockage of your nasal passages
– You have a birth defect that affects the function of your nose
– You have undergone previous surgery on your nose that has led to complications or has not fully solved your breathing problem
– You would like to make minor adjustments to the size or shape of your nose that can’t be made through nonsurgical means.

The Procedure and Recovery Process

A functional rhinoplasty is a type of nose surgery that is performed to improve the function of the nose. This type of surgery can be performed to improve the appearance of the nose as well. The most common reason for performing a functional rhinoplasty is to correct a deviated septum. A functional rhinoplasty can also be performed to improve the breathing by correcting a blockage in the nasal passages.

The procedure for a functional rhinoplasty is similar to that of a cosmetic rhinoplasty. The incisions are made in the same place, and the skin is lifted off of the underlying bone and cartilage. The surgeon then shapes the bone and cartilage to achieve the desired results. The skin is then placed back over the new shape and secured with stitches or silicone gel strips.

The recovery process for a functional rhinoplasty is typically shorter than that of a cosmetic rhinoplasty. Most people can return to work within a week, and all strenuous activity should be avoided for at least four weeks. There may be some swelling and bruising around the eyes, which usually resolves within two weeks. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions during recovery to ensure proper healing.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

There are a few key questions you should ask your surgeon before undergoing functional rhinoplasty. First, you should inquire about the experience and training of your surgeon. Make sure they are board certified and have plenty of experience performing this type of surgery.

It’s also important to ask about the risks and complications associated with functional rhinoplasty. Be sure to discuss any concerns you have with your surgeon. They should be able to address all of your questions and alleviate any fears you may have.

Finally, be sure to ask about recovery time and what you can expect after the surgery. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week or two after surgery. However, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions during the recovery process to ensure a successful outcome.

Overall, functional rhinoplasty is an effective way to improve both the look and the function of your nose. If you suffer from breathing difficulties due to a structural deformity or damage caused by an accident or injury, then this may be a great option for you. It’s important to note that any type of cosmetic surgery carries some potential risks, so discussing these things with your doctor in detail before making a decision is wise. Ultimately, it can offer people with nasal issues much-needed relief and improved quality of life.