Understanding Functional and Reconstructive Revision Rhinoplasty
Without the idea of reconstructive revision rhinoplasty, many people mistakenly believe that nose reshaping is done for cosmetic reasons only. In fact, many people who would benefit from a functional or recostructive revision rhinoplasty would also get the side effect of a more balanced nose. This is because the septum, which lies at the root of many upper airway breathing difficulties also happens to form a very important structural component of the nose that impacts enormously on the external appearance of the nose.
Deviation of the septum can cause significant breathing difficulties – a problem of much more import than the external appearance of the nose. Addressing this lopsided culprit, which by the way is often covered by most insurance carriers, will greatly aid nasal airflow, and fortunately, also improve nasal shape. In addition, in some cases of trauma, where the nasal bones have been misplaced, nasal airflow is also significantly compromised.
Restoring Nasal Functionality in Reconstructive Revision Rhinoplasty
In cases where a previous rhinoplasty has led to impaired nasal breathing or functional issues, reconstructive revision rhinoplasty comes into play. This procedure focuses on improving the nasal airway and restoring proper function, such as addressing septal deviations or collapse of nasal valves.
Resetting the displaced bones will usually take care of the problem, and again, improve nasal shape. How is this done? Depending on the complexity of the problem, and the surgeon’s preference, the surgery may be performed through an open or closed approach. From a simplified perspective the only thing that separates the two approaches with respect to the final appearance is the presence of a small, usually imperceptible (except to the dog or the lover of the patient) scar at the top of cupid’s bow. From the surgeon’s standpoint, however, the addition of that small opening can greatly facilitate exposure, and help precise matching of one side to the other in the more involved case.
Enhancing Aesthetic Appearance
Beyond functional improvements, reconstructive revision rhinoplasty also aims to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the nose. This involves reshaping and refining the nasal structures to achieve a more balanced, harmonious, and natural-looking result.
The Importance of Individualized Approach in Reconstructive Revision Rhinoplasty
Functional and reconstructive revision rhinoplasty require a comprehensive evaluation of each patient’s unique concerns and goals. During a consultation, the surgeon evaluates nasal anatomy, function, and prior surgeries to create a personalized surgical plan.
Surgical Techniques and Considerations
The specific techniques used in functional and reconstructive revision rhinoplasty vary depending on the patient’s needs. These may include septoplasty, grafting, cartilage reshaping, or other corrective measures to address functional and aesthetic concerns. The surgeon will explain the recommended techniques and discuss their potential benefits and risks.
Recovery and Results
Recovery after functional and reconstructive revision rhinoplasty may involve a period of swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions for optimal healing. Over time, as the swelling subsides, patients can expect to see improvements in both nasal function and aesthetic appearance.
Conclusion
Functional and reconstructive revision rhinoplasty offer comprehensive solutions for addressing functional and aesthetic concerns arising from previous nasal surgeries. By customizing the approach to each patient’s needs, these procedures restore form and function, ensuring a harmonious nasal outcome. To conclude, form is function and function is also form when it comes to nose surgery, fix your breathing, fix your nose.
Check out our gallery of before and after images for rhinoplasty: https://www.fineryou.com/before-after-galleries/rhinoplasty/
