Not all nose surgery is the same. Patients considering rhinoplasty at my Chicago practice often ask if the surgery can correct issues they have with breathing through their noses. They also want to know if cosmetic rhinoplasty—designed to change the size or shape of the nostrils, bridge, nasal tip, or other structures—can be combined with functional rhinoplasty that improves breathing.
As a board-certified otolaryngologist and plastic surgeon with 34 years of experience, I have the qualifications to recommend the best possible solution for patients with concerns about the appearance and function of their noses. Form and function of the nose often go hand in hand, and it’s not unusual for people who have difficulty breathing to also feel self-conscious about the appearance of their noses.
What Is Functional Rhinoplasty?
Functional rhinoplasty describes nose surgery that’s performed to improve a patient’s ability to breathe through the nose. A common reason for seeking functional rhinoplasty is a misaligned septum, either due to its natural development or a traumatic injury. On its own, a procedure to straighten the septum is called a septoplasty. Positioning the cartilage so it sits properly vertical, rather than at an angle, can allow air to move more easily through each nostril.
Another issue involves nasal structures called turbinates. There are 3 pairs of turbinates inside the nose, including the inferior turbinates, which are the largest. When swollen or enlarged, turbinates can obstruct airflow and cause congestion, making it difficult to breathe. Turbinate resection is an extremely effective procedure to improve breathing.
Combining Functional and Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Visible issues with the nose are often caused by misalignment of internal structures, which can disrupt airflow and make breathing more difficult than it should be. That’s why correcting the internal problems can lead to producing a nose that’s also more aesthetically pleasing. You can learn more about the procedure itself on our rhinoplasty FAQ page.
A diagnosis of a structural issue in the nose may mean the surgery is deemed medically necessary and will be covered by a patient’s insurance plan. In some cases, part of the procedure may be covered, but patients may also choose to address cosmetic issues that aren’t necessarily related to breathing problems. This is decided on a case-by-case basis.
Revision Rhinoplasty
I often see patients who have undergone cosmetic rhinoplasty at another practice whose results are either disappointing aesthetically or cause breathing issues. Because of my extensive experience and training, I’m considered one of the best plastic surgeons in Chicago for revision rhinoplasty. These can be extremely complex surgeries and require techniques that many plastic surgeons aren’t well-equipped to use.
If you’ve been considering rhinoplasty—for cosmetic or functional reasons, or as a revision procedure—it’s helpful to look at before-and-after photos to see the kinds of results it can produce. It’s also important to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty. I’ve performed more than 2,000 rhinoplasty procedures during my career.
Start With a Consultation
If you have difficulty breathing through your nose or are self-conscious about its appearance, the first step is consulting with an expert rhinoplasty surgeon. You can use the online form to request a consultation with either Dr. Mustoe or Dr. Sinno, or call our office at (312) 788-2560.
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