Rhinoplasty to Improve Breathing and Cosmetic Appearance
Rhinoplasty is often associated with aesthetic enhancements; it can also serve as essential functional purpose to improve breathing. This dual capability involves both the anatomical intricacies of the nose and the surgeon’s expertise.
Peter Jay Abramson, M.D. is double board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has been practicing both as a facial plastic surgeon and ENT specialists for over 25 years. He can make the nose more aesthetically pleasing as well as correct functional breathing issues during the same surgical procedure.
Structure and Function of the Nose
It is often said that the nose balances the face. However, it is not just a central feature of the face; it’s also a complex organ responsible for filtering, warming, and humidifying the air that we breathe. The nose comprises several key components that play a role in both its appearance and function:
- Nasal Septum – A thin, bony and cartilaginous structure that separates the left and right nasal cavities.
- Turbinates – Long, narrow shelves of bone that protrude into the nasal cavity, lined with a thick mucosal layer. There are three pairs of turbinates in each nostril: the inferior, middle, and superior turbinates.
- Nasal Valves – The Passageway that filters the air you breathe through your nostrils. It extends from the middle of your nose to the bottom.
- External Nasal Framework – They consist of a root (superiorly), apex (inferiorly), dorsum, nares (nostrils), and the separating nasal septum.
Rhinoplasty for Functional Improvement: Beyond Cosmetic Enhancement
While many people seek rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons, some patients pursue the procedure to address functional issues that impair their ability to breathe. Functional rhinoplasty (Septorhinoplasty) focuses on correcting structural abnormalities that hinder normal airflow through the nose. Here are some of the common functional issues that rhinoplasty can address:
- Primary Goal: To improve airflow and correct structural abnormalities that impair nasal function.
- Issues Addressed:
- Deviated septum: Straightening the wall that divides the nostrils to improve airflow.
- Enlarged turbinates: Reducing the size of these structures that humidify air to create more space in the nasal passages.
- Nasal valve collapse: Reinforcing the nasal sidewalls with cartilage grafts to prevent them from collapsing during inhalation.
- Nasal fractures or trauma: Restoring the form and function of the nose after injury.
- Congenital defects: Correcting birth defects that affect breathing.
- Benefits: Easier breathing, reduced snoring, improved sleep quality, increased exercise tolerance, and fewer sinus infections.
- Insurance Coverage: Often considered medically necessary and may be fully or partially covered by health insurance, provided medical necessity is documented.
Balancing Aesthetic and Functional Goals
One of the unique aspects of rhinoplasty is its ability to address cosmetic and functional concerns. For many patients, the ideal outcome is a nose that not only looks better but also functions better. Achieving this balance requires a surgeon with specialized training and experience in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of nasal surgery.
The Importance of a Customized Approach
Every nose is unique, and so are the needs and goals of each patient. Whether the primary concern is improving breathing, enhancing appearance, or both, a customized approach is essential. During the consultation, Dr. Peter Abramson will carefully evaluate the patient’s nasal anatomy, discuss their goals, and develop a surgical plan tailored to their needs.
For patients seeking both cosmetic and functional improvements, he will need to consider how changes to the external appearance of the nose will affect its function, and vice versa. For example, while reducing the size of the nose may achieve a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, Dr. Abramson must also ensure that the nasal passages remain open and that the nasal valves are adequately supported to maintain good airflow.
Long Term Results
The long-term results of rhinoplasty, whether for cosmetic or functional purposes, can be life changing. For patients who have struggled with breathing issues for years, the improvement in airflow can lead to a significant enhancement in quality of life. They may find it easier to engage in physical activities, sleep better at night, and experience fewer sinus-related issues.
In terms of appearance, the final cosmetic results of rhinoplasty will become apparent over several months as the swelling subsides and the tissues settle into their new shape. Patients should have realistic expectations and understand that while the changes may be subtle, they can have a profound impact on overall facial harmony and self-confidence.