Functional and Reconstructive Rhinoplasty: Beyond Cosmetic Purposes
When most people hear the word “rhinoplasty,” they immediately think of cosmetic nose surgery. While cosmetic rhinoplasty is indeed a popular procedure, there are many cases where a functional or reconstructive rhinoplasty is necessary.
What is a Functional or Reconstructive Rhinoplasty?
Functional or reconstructive rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the function of the nose, such as correcting breathing difficulties, while also improving its appearance.
The Septum: A Culprit for Breathing Difficulties and Lopsided Noses
The septum, which is the wall of cartilage that divides the nose into two chambers, can be a culprit for breathing difficulties. Deviation of the septum can significantly compromise nasal airflow, leading to breathing difficulties that are much more important than the external appearance of the nose. Fortunately, addressing this issue can greatly aid nasal airflow and improve nasal shape.
Resetting Displaced Nasal Bones: Improving Nasal Airflow and Shape
In cases of trauma where the nasal bones have been misplaced, nasal airflow is also significantly compromised. Resetting the displaced bones can usually take care of the problem and improve nasal shape as well.
What to Expect During Reconstructive Rhinoplasty
Reconstructive rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia and may take several hours to complete. The surgeon will make incisions inside the nose or on the columella (the strip of tissue that separates the nostrils) to access the nasal structures.
Once the necessary corrections have been made, the surgeon will close the incisions with dissolvable sutures and apply a splint or dressing to support the healing process.
Recovery and Results
Recovery time for reconstructive rhinoplasty varies depending on the extent of the procedure. However, most patients can typically return to work and other activities within two weeks. While the full results of the procedure may take several months to become apparent, most patients report improved breathing and a more symmetrical appearance of the nose.
Conclusion: Form is Function and Function is Form
In conclusion, form is function and function is also form when it comes to nose surgery. Fixing breathing difficulties can lead to improved nasal shape, and vice versa. Therefore, it’s important to understand that functional and reconstructive rhinoplasty can have benefits that go beyond just cosmetic purposes.
Check out our gallery of before and after images for rhinoplasty: https://www.fineryou.com/before-after-galleries/rhinoplasty/
