While many view rhinoplasty as a cosmetic surgery aimed at enhancing one’s appearance, it can also serve medical purposes by correcting structural issues in the nose and improving breathing.

Do you suffer from chronic breathing difficulties, congestion or persistent sinus infections? Do you have a deviated septum that is impacting your quality of life? Rhinoplasty may be the solution to all your problems. While many view rhinoplasty as a cosmetic surgery aimed at enhancing one’s appearance, it can also serve medical purposes by correcting structural issues in the nose and improving breathing. In this blog post, we will explore how rhinoplasty can help those with deviated septums and breathing issues lead a more comfortable and healthy life. So buckle up and let’s dive into everything you need to know about rhinoplasty for medical reasons!

What is Rhinoplasty?

When it comes to cosmetic surgery, the nose is one of the most popular areas to address. But did you know that rhinoplasty, or “nose job” surgery, can also be performed for medical reasons? Specifically, deviated septums and breathing issues can often be corrected through this type of procedure.

If you suffer from a deviated septum, it means that the wall between your nostrils is crooked or off-center. This can cause difficulty breathing and even chronic sinus infections. Rhinoplasty can help to correct this issue by straightening out the septum.

In addition, if you have trouble breathing due to narrow nasal passages, rhinoplasty can also widening them. This not only helps with airflow but can also improve your sleep quality since sleep apnea is often caused by narrow nasal passages.

If you’re considering rhinoplasty for medical reasons, it’s important to consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon who has experience performing this type of procedure. They will be able to assess your individual case and determine if rhinoplasty is right for you.

Reasons for Medical Rhinoplasty

There are two main reasons that people opt for medical rhinoplasty: to correct a deviated septum, or to improve breathing.

A deviated septum is a common condition in which the wall separating the nostrils is crooked or off-center. This can cause difficulty breathing, and is often the result of an injury. Medical rhinoplasty can correct the alignment of the septum, restoring normal function.

Breathing problems can also be caused by structural issues within the nose, such as a narrow nasal passageway. In some cases, this can be due to a birth defect or previous injury. Medical rhinoplasty can open up the nasal passageway, making it easier to breathe.

If you suffer from either a deviated septum or breathing difficulties, medical rhinoplasty may be right for you. This procedure can improve your quality of life by correcting these functional problems.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

There are many benefits that can be achieved through rhinoplasty, especially for those who have a deviated septum or other breathing issues. For starters, the procedure can significantly improve the function of your nose by correcting the alignment of your septum. This will not only make it easier to breathe but can also help reduce snoring. In addition, rhinoplasty can also improve the appearance of your nose, giving you a boost in confidence.

Who is a Candidate for Medical Rhinoplasty?

Medical rhinoplasty is a type of nose surgery that is performed to correct a variety of functional issues with the nose. The most common reason for medical rhinoplasty is to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition where the bone and cartilage inside the nose are not aligned properly. This can cause difficulty breathing, as well as sleep apnea. Other common reasons for medical rhinoplasty include correcting birth defects, such as a cleft palate, and repairing damage from injury or trauma.

Candidates for medical rhinoplasty must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the results of surgery. The best candidates are those who have a deviated septum or other functional issue that can be corrected with surgery. patients with cosmetic concerns should know that medical rhinoplasty may improve their appearance, but it is not intended to be a cosmetic procedure.

Types of Procedures Involved with Medical Rhinoplasty for Deviated Septums and Breathing Issues

1. Septoplasty
The most common type of procedure involved with medical rhinoplasty for deviated septums is septoplasty. This involves correcting the position of the septum, which is the bone and cartilage that divides the two sides of the nose. During septoplasty, the surgeon will make an incision in the nose and then reposition the septum to its proper location. In some cases, part of the septum may need to be removed.

2. Turbinate Reduction
Another common type of procedure involved with medical rhinoplasty for deviated septums and breathing issues is turbinate reduction. The turbinates are structures in the nose that help to filter and humidify air as it passes through. However, when they become enlarged, they can block airflow and make breathing difficult. During turbinate reduction, the surgeon will remove some of the tissue from the turbinates to reduce their size and improve airflow through the nose.

3. Nasal Valve Repair
Nasal valve repair is another type of procedure that can be done to improve breathing in patients with deviated septums or other nasal obstructions. The nasal valves are located at the narrowest part of the nasal passages and act as a one-way valve to control airflow into and out of the lungs. When they are damaged or not functioning properly, they can cause difficulty breathing. During nasal valve repair, the surgeon will work to restore the structures in the nasal valves to improve their function and airflow.

4. Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery can also be done when medical rhinoplasty is used to correct a deviated septum or other breathing issues in the nose. This procedure involves widening or repairing the sinus openings, removing diseased tissue, correcting an obstruction in the sinuses, and improving drainage. These procedures can help improve breathing by reducing inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

Average Cost

If you’re considering rhinoplasty for medical reasons, you may be wondering what the average cost is. Typically, insurance will cover some or all of the cost if the procedure is considered medically necessary. This means that your deviated septum must be significantly affecting your breathing in order to qualify for coverage. If your insurance doesn’t cover the procedure, or if you choose to have it done for cosmetic reasons, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000. The exact cost will depend on factors like the surgeon’s fees, the anaesthesiologist’s fees, and the facility fees.
Be sure to do your research and find an experienced surgeon who has the highest ratings from their patients. The cost of rhinoplasty is high, so it’s important to be sure you’re investing in a reputable surgeon with a proven track record of successful results.

Recovery Time and Aftercare

Assuming that you have no complications, you can expect to take about a week off from work or school. During this time, you will need to sleep with your head elevated and avoid strenuous activity. It is also important to avoid blowing your nose for at least a week after surgery. Your surgeon will likely put splints inside your nose to help support the new shape during healing. These will be removed after about a week. You may also have packing in your nose, which will also be removed within the first week. Recovery times vary from person to person, but most people feel well enough to return to their normal activities within two weeks. After that, it can take up to several months for all of the swelling to go down and for your final results to be apparent.

Rhinoplasty for medical reasons is becoming increasingly popular, particularly as more and more people are learning about the benefits of this type of procedure. The most common reasons to get rhinoplasty include correcting a deviated septum or improving breathing problems, though there can be many other health-related issues that could benefit from such corrective nose surgery. No matter what the reason may be, it’s important to find an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon who will ensure you receive safe and effective care.