12 September, 2024 by Dr. Sachin Rajpal

Does Rhinoplasty Surgery Actually Improve Your Breathing Problems

One of the most popular cosmetic procedures is rhinoplasty surgery. But despite its widespread use, there are several myths about the technique. For instance, some individuals think that all rhinoplasties, or "nose jobs," are done solely for cosmetic purposes.

This isn’t always the case. In some circumstances, rhinoplasty can be done to enhance the nose’s look and breathing capacity as well. Although the treatment may go by a slightly different name (such as functional rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty), it still contains rhinoplasty-related components.

Thus, rhinoplasty can be done to improve your breathing in addition to its cosmetic benefits. Dr. Sachin Rajpal, a plastic surgeon in Delhi, explains what to expect before, during, and after the treatment.

Functional rhinoplasty surgery versus cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery

An aesthetic component to enhance the nose’s look, a functional component to enhance breathing, or a combination of the two can all be included in rhinoplasty surgery. Some patients just get rhinoplasty surgery for the cosmetic benefits, while others only get it to breathe better. However, because the patient wishes to concurrently improve nasal airway function and nose attractiveness, there is frequently some overlap between the two problems.

When are you suggested for functional rhinoplasty surgery?

The desire for functional rhinoplasty might be attributed to a variety of factors. The most frequent is brought on by a pre-existing physical ailment, including a birth deformity, illness, or damage to the nose that causes the nostrils to collapse, the nasal channel to shrink, or other breathing obstacles.

• To fix a deviated septum, many functional rhinoplasty surgeries are carried out. This happens when the wall separating the nasal canal twists, decreasing airflow and making breathing difficult. Your deviated septum can occur naturally or as a result of damage to the nose, and you might experience snoring, blocked nostrils, recurring sinus infections, crusting, or bleeding in the nose.
• Other patients who breathe through their noses undergo internal or external nasal valve collapse, which constricts their nostrils and reduces airflow. The nasal apertures are severely constricted by valve collapse, making it impossible for air to pass through. As breathing normally gets heavier during physical exertion, such as regular exercise, this becomes particularly difficult. Many people opt for rhinoplasty surgery to treat nasal valve collapse, which can help to reopen the airway and promote easy, unhindered breathing.
• Nasal problems can also result from facial injuries. If your nose is broken, you can see changes in how you look and be unable to breathe through one or both nostrils. You will be able to breathe normally once you get reconstructive rhinoplasty surgery to address these changes and restore the contour of your nose.
• Enlarged turbinates, which are structures in the upper nose that can expand as a result of infections, allergies, or other irritants and limit your airway, are another frequent reason for patients to choose functional rhinoplasty surgery.

Your quality of life can significantly improve if you have rhinoplasty surgery to treat a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, constricted nostrils, or any other physical problem that makes it difficult for you to breathe.

What should you expect after a rhinoplasty surgery?

Your nose will be fitted with a splint following surgery to help it heal. For the first week or so, you should prepare for some bruising and swelling; the severity of these symptoms depends on the alterations done during surgery. To ensure optimum healing and safeguard your overall aesthetic result, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for your nose as it recovers. In order to improve your comfort for the first few days following your treatment, you can also be given a prescription for medicine. One to two weeks after surgery, patients can usually resume their regular activities and jobs.

A rhinoplasty surgery may be the suggested treatment for you if you have trouble breathing through your nose. Call +91-9810 302 821 to set up your consultation with Dr. Sachin Rajpal, one of the finest plastic surgeon in Delhi, to find out if rhinoplasty surgery can help you breathe easier and live a better, more fulfilling life.