Breathe easy and look great with functional rhinoplasty: a comprehensive guide

Are you struggling to breathe easily or unhappy with the shape of your nose? Discover how functional rhinoplasty can improve both form and function, giving you the best nose.

As the name suggests, functional rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the function of the nose, particularly the nasal airways. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which focuses on enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the nose, functional rhinoplasty addresses issues that impact breathing and overall nasal functionality.

In this blog, Dr Adnan discusses what functional rhinoplasty entails, how it differs from cosmetic rhinoplasty, and what patients can expect before, during, and after surgery.

Functional rhinoplasty is a nasal surgical procedure designed to correct structural problems within the nose that can cause breathing difficulties. These problems can arise from congenital (from birth) deformities, injuries, or conditions like chronic nasal congestion. The aim of functional rhinoplasty is to restore normal airflow through the nasal passages.

Functional rhinoplasty is often recommended for patients experiencing:

• Chronic nasal congestion or obstruction
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Sleep apnea or snoring due to nasal blockages
• A deviated septum or nasal valve collapse
• Nasal trauma or injury that has affected breathing

Pre-surgery consultation

Before undergoing functional rhinoplasty, patients have a thorough consultation with Dr Adnan. During consultation, Dr Adnan assesses the patient’s nasal structure, discusses their symptoms, and orders any imaging required, for example x-rays. This evaluation helps Dr Adnan plan the procedure to address both functional and cosmetic concerns, if applicable.

The surgery

Functional rhinoplasty is typically performed as day surgery. The surgery usually lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. These are the steps involved:

Anesthesia: The patient is given general or local anesthesia to ensure their comfort during the surgery.

Incisions: Next, Dr Adnan marks and makes small incisions either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella, the tissue between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty).

Reshaping: He adjusts the bone and cartilage to correct structural issues that obstruct airflow, such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or collapsed nasal valves.

Repositioning: If needed, the nasal structure is repositioned to improve both function and appearance.

Closing Incisions: The incisions are carefully closed with biodegradable sutures, and the nose is supported with splints or packing to aid healing and maintain the new shape.

Recovery

Post-surgery, patients may expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, particularly around the eyes. Pain is generally minimal to moderate and can be managed with prescribed medications.

• Initial recovery: Soft splints are removed after 5-7 days, and patients can typically return to work or school within 1 to 2 weeks.
• Long-term recovery: Patients will see a gradual improvement in nasal airflow and appearance over time. The healing process follows a typical timeline of 40% healing in six weeks, 70% in six months, and continued improvement thereafter.

  Also Read: Rhinoplasty Swelling Stages: What to expect

1. Pain and swelling: Patients may experience minimal to moderate pain and some bruising around the eyes. Cool pads can help reduce swelling in the first two days, followed by warm compresses.
2. Splint removal: Dr Adnan may apply nose splints to support the newly formed nose. In this case, after your nose has healed and stabilized the external splint is removed, usually after a week.
3. Breathing improvements: Immediate improvements in nasal straightness and breathing can be noticed, with continued enhancement over several months.
4. Follow-up care: It’s crucial to follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, including avoiding sun exposure and preventing nasal injury.

Functional rhinoplasty, primarily focuses on improving nasal function and resolving breathing issues caused by structural abnormalities. For example, a patient with a deviated septum or collapsed nasal valves may undergo functional rhinoplasty to enhance airflow and alleviate symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion, snoring, or sleep apnoea. This procedure addresses internal nasal structures to improve function, often with minimal changes to the nose’s external appearance.

Cosmetic rhinoplasty, on the other hand, is performed to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the nose. Patients may seek cosmetic rhinoplasty to alter the shape, size, or proportions of their nose to achieve a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance. For instance, a person might undergo cosmetic rhinoplasty to reduce a nasal hump, refine the nasal tip, or straighten a crooked nose. While cosmetic rhinoplasty primarily focuses on appearance, it can sometimes include functional improvements as well.

Also Read: What is the best age for rhinoplasty? A comprehensive guide 

Dr Adnan Tahir’s extensive experience in functional rhinoplasty can help you achieve improved nasal function and appearance. His patient-centred approach and use of cutting-edge techniques guarantee a smooth, effective surgical process. Choose Dr Adnan for your functional rhinoplasty and breathe easier. 

Book your appointment now!

1. How do I know if I need functional rhinoplasty?

If you experience chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through your nose, or have been diagnosed with structural nasal issues like a deviated septum, you may be a candidate for functional rhinoplasty.

2. Can functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty be combined?

Yes, many surgeons including Dr Adnan  perform a combination of functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty, known as septorhinoplasty, to address both functional and aesthetic concerns simultaneously.

3. What are the risks of functional rhinoplasty?

 As with any surgery, functional rhinoplasty carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications from anaesthesia. Discussing these risks with Dr Adnan can help you make an informed decision.

Functional rhinoplasty offers a dual benefit by not only improving nasal function but also potentially enhancing your nose’s appearance. 

This procedure can significantly enhance quality of life for people who experience breathing difficulties, making it a worthwhile consideration for eligible candidates. If you’re considering functional rhinoplasty, consult with Dr Adnan to discuss your specific needs and expectations.