When most people think about rhinoplasty (nose surgery), they generally think of a procedure that is done to improve the appearance of the nose. Nose surgery is often done for cosmetic purposes to make the nose smaller, wider or to remove a bump, but does a rhinoplasty help with breathing.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is primarily done to adjust the shape or size of the nose, but it can also address issues relating to the function of the nose.
Does a Rhinoplasty Help With Breathing?
Yes, rhinoplasty can help improve breathing, but it is not effective for all types of breathing issues. Rhinoplasty is beneficial for breathing difficulty caused by the collapse of the internal and external nasal valve.
Correcting breathing problems with rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty to correct a breathing issue can be performed using the closed or open techniques. With closed rhinoplasty all the incisions are made inside the nostrils, but with open rhinoplasty an additional incision is made in the columella, which is the cartilage between both nostrils. Rhinoplasty opens up the airways, and this makes breathing easier.
What to expect after surgery
There is typically some swelling on the inside of the nose, and this can take 2-3 weeks to subside. Once the swelling has resolved, patients should experience a significant improvement in breathing.
Most patients need to take at least one week off work for recovery after rhinoplasty, and all normal activities can be resumed after 2 weeks.
Are you interested in rhinoplasty to correct a breathing problem? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Central Florida area, Winter Park Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Winter Park, FL is our featured practice.
You can reach them at www.scottgreenbergmd.com, or by calling (407) 410-4861.