Will Rhinoplasty Fix a Deviated Septum and Sleeping Problems?
December 23rd, 2015 | Posted in: Cosmetic Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Rhinoplasty, Uncategorized | Tags: deviated septum, rhinoplasty, sleep apnea, sleep disorder
Rhinoplasty, or a “nose job”, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures out there. Its ability to alter the size and shape of a nose has given many patients a more balanced facial appearance and a confident new look that they love. While these aesthetic improvements are widely known of, many people are surprised to discover that rhinoplasty has a different side to it, one that deals with function. Referred to as functional rhinoplasty, this type of surgery tackles the various forms of nasal airway obstructions to improve breathing issues.
From Air to ZZZ’s- Fixing the Flow
Blockage of a proper flow of air through the nasal passages is sometimes caused by a deviated septum. The septum is the wall-like structure made of bone and cartilage that separates the two nostrils. This wall can be crooked from birth or it can “deviate” off its centered track due to trauma or injury.
Plenty of people have a slightly deviated septum and never really notice, but that is hardly the case for those with a more severe degree of displacement. Sufferers of this condition commonly experience signs and symptoms such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Sinus infections
- Congestion
- Headaches
- Nose bleeds
- Sleeping disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea
When conservative methods of treatment are unable to provide relief, surgical approaches often become viable options. Functional rhinoplasty, or more specifically the technique of septoplasty, fixes the alignment of the septum. During the surgery, which is typically performed on an outpatient basis, the portions of cartilage that are bent and displaced, are removed or reshaped, and the structure is straightened. This works to get a healthy flow of air back in gear, which generally leads to a significant improvement in the related symptoms. Each patient case is different, so while a septoplasty can be an effective way of clearing a nasal obstruction that is linked to symptoms like sleep apnea, it doesn’t mean it will necessarily cure it altogether. However, overall many people are able to get a great deal of relief with better breathing and sleeping all made possible thanks to functional rhinoplasty, septoplasty… and the hands of a skilled surgeon.
The Possibility of Combining Beauty & Function
On their own, the benefits one gains from a functional Rhinoplasty are incredible. That being said, some patients desire to combine factors of function with the element of aesthetic alteration when it comes the goals they have for their nose. If you are interested in taking a step towards either direction, contact Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery for a consultation. Using his wealth of knowledge and his dedication to patient care, Dr. Chiu will skillfully address your needs and concerns and help you achieve a nose that breathes better, looks great, or does both.
