Can Rhinoplasty Improve Nasal Function?

Posted July 02, 2019 in Rhinoplasty

Getting a nose job, which is also known as a rhinoplasty, can significantly change the shape and size of your nose. But what about patients who simply want to breathe easier?

Having an overly large turbinate (the vessels, tissue, and bones that create the nasal passageways), a deviated septum, or nostrils that are too small can all contribute to breathing issues. When your nasal passages are blocked or obstructed, your breathing may be labored and shallow, which can lead to problems such as snoring or sinus infections.

The term deviated septum is used to refer to a septum (the wall that separates your nostrils) with a crook or bend. This wall can lean toward one side of the nose, blocking air from naturally flowing through the airway.

Luckily, rhinoplasty can repair nasal passageways to improve breathing, relieve discomfort, and prevent sinus infections. When nasal surgery is solely intended to improve a deviated septum, it is known as septoplasty.

What Can Cause Nasal Obstructions?

Some people are born with a deviated septum or with bone or cartilage that protrudes into the nasal passages. These conditions can be genetic or develop from an injury later in life.

A deviated septum or other nasal issues can happen a lot easier than many people realize. Many people can have their nose permanently damaged through contact sports or other situations that expose the nasal structure to pressure or impact.

What Are the Symptoms?

A deviated septum may be the culprit of breathing difficulties and frequent or constant nasal congestion (usually with one nostril more congested than the other).

Recurring sinus infections, frequent nosebleeds, and nasal pain or discomfort are also common symptoms of nose problems associated with a deviated septum.

How Is a Deviated Septum Diagnosed?

Scheduling a doctor’s appointment to have your nose examined is the best way to determine whether you have a deviated septum or a treatable symptom. Your doctor will discuss what symptoms you are experiencing, then assess your nasal structure and look inside your nostrils using a small light and a speculum to open your nostrils.

With a full view of the potential problems causing your breathing concerns, you can receive a diagnosis and recommended a treatment plan.

How Is a Deviated Septum Treated?

While rhinoplasty is a good way to relieve other nasal and sinus issues, a deviated septum is treated through a septoplasty.

What Does a Septoplasty Entail?

During a septoplasty, Dr. Todd B. Koch will make minor incisions within the nostrils to reposition and remove bone and cartilage. The nose structure is realigned to restore breathing and provide satisfying results. Internal splints and soft packing may be used inside the nose to help support the septum during healing.

Regardless of your concerns, rhinoplasty can resolve many nose issues, including the shape, size, length, width, and structural concerns that can lead to breathing problems.

To learn more about rhinoplasty and nasal function in New York, call our office at 716-631-1220 or fill out our online contact form.