Although a functional rhinoplasty is not the same as an aesthetic rhinoplasty, the aesthetic and functional parts of the nose are closely related.
In purely aesthetic rhinoplasty, no major modifications are usually made to the septum or nasal turbinates, which are the main structures affected when there are nasal breathing problems. However, if not done correctly, a cosmetic rhinoplasty can negatively affect nasal breathing function due to the collapse or narrowing of internal areas of the nose that hinder the passage of air.
In some cases of complex nasal septal deviations, it is necessary to perform a purely functional rhinoplasty in order to completely correct a respiratory problem, altering little or nothing of the external appearance of the nose.
What does the functional rhinoplasty operation consist of?
Nasal septum surgery is called septoplasty. In it the septum is accessed from the lower part, inside the nose, leaving intact the upper insertion of the septum to the roof of the nose. When there is a complex alteration of the nasal septum where the upper part of the septum and the structure of the nasal pyramid is affected, a functional rhinoplasty can be performed, which consists of lifting the skin and soft tissues that cover the nose to access the upper part of the septum and completely correct complex functional problems.
What improvements does functional rhinoplasty provide?
Nasal breathing problems significantly affect the quality of life of people, who have problems falling asleep, fatigue and discomfort when doing sports and physical activities, concentration problems, among others. Functional rhinoplasty is able to restore an adequate respiratory function and therefore improves the quality of life of patients.
Can a functional rhinoplasty be used to aesthetically correct the nose?
The approach used is the same, so if the surgeon is familiar with and has a good command of both the aesthetic and functional parts of the nose, he/she will be able to improve breathing and the aesthetic appearance of the nose in a single surgical procedure.