Functional rhinoplasty can be used to correct breathing problems resulting from an airway obstruction in one nasal passage or both resulting in reduced nasal airflow. Such obstructions affecting breathing can be caused by issues such as narrow nostrils or enlarged turbinates.
Nasal Turbinates
Nasal turbinates, or nasal conchae, are made of bone, blood vessels, and tissue. When turbinates become enlarged, they can obstruct the nasal airway. Causes of enlarged turbinates include allergies, sinus infections, or hormones. Functional rhinoplasty can therefore be used to widen narrow nasal passages, remove tissue blocking the nasal passages, and reduce the size of nasal turbinates.
Nasal Valve Collapse
One of the most common causes of nasal obstruction surgeons deal with is nasal valve collapse, also known as nasal valve stenosis. When the narrow portion of the patient’s airway becomes to weak, it can collapse. This can occur on one or both sides of the nose. The affected individual may be unable to take in sufficient amounts of air.
Other Breathing Difficulties
Obstructions of the nasal airway can affect nasal breathing, resulting in sleep difficulties like sleep apnea. Functional rhinoplasty can therefore improve a multitude of issues affecting a person’s life.
Overall, functional rhinoplasty can be carried out by plastic surgeons to address nasal swelling and breathing-related symptoms related to issues of the nasal airway resulting in decreased airflow. This includes breathing symptoms caused by:
- Chronic allergies.
- Chronic sinus infections.
- Narrow nostrils.
- Impeded ability to take in air through the nose.
- Sleep issues, like sleep apnea.
Contact us by phone, or message us on our website, to find out if functional rhinoplasty is right for you.