WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL RHINOPLASTY?
Functional rhinoplasty is the surgical correction of nasal deformities that impair the function of the nose, namely breathing.
HOW ARE COSMETIC RHINOPLASTY AND FUNCTIONAL RHINOPLASTY DIFFERENT?
The principal goal of cosmetic rhinoplasty is to change the appearance of the nose as well as address any underlying functional issues. Functional rhinoplasty only addresses functional issues (breathing) and does not change the appearance of the nose.
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON CAUSES OF NASAL DYSFUNCTION OR IMPAIRED NASAL BREATHING?
- Deviated septum
- Enlarged turbinates
- Nasal valve collapse
WHAT IS A SEPTOPLASTY?
A septoplasty is the surgical correction of a deviated septum. The nasal septum is the bony-cartilaginous partition that separates the right and left nasal passages. Patient’s that have chronic nasal obstruction may have a deviated nasal septum. A deviated septum is diagnosed by a careful examination of the inside of the nose.
A septoplasty is performed from inside the nose, meaning there are no external incisions. The tissues overlying the septum are carefully elevated and the deviated portion of cartilage and bone is removed. This procedure does not change the appearance of the nose; however, it is frequently performed as a part of a standard rhinoplasty procedure.
The typical recovery for a septoplasty is about 1 week.
