Is rhinoplasty only done for aesthetic improvements?

Posted by nishimj on November 27th, 2020

When people hear the word “rhinoplasty,” more often than not they associate it with “aesthetic improvements” to the nose. This is correct, but the goal of rhinoplasty is not solely tied up to making augmentations that would improve the general appearance of the nose. A lot of times, rhinoplasty is also performed in order to allow the nose to function much better.

Generally speaking, a rhinoplasty—commonly known as a “nose job”—is a surgical procedure that is done to alter certain parts of the nose, like the nasal bridge or tip.

Introduction to Functional Rhinoplasty

Functional rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty is a type of surgery that is done to the nose in order to address problems that affect a person’s breathing. Symptoms of breathing problems may include breathing through the mouth that usually happens at night, a dry mouth, nasal congestion, or challenges with the ability to smell.

The most common cause of a nasal airway obstruction is a deviated septum. This is a condition that can be identified by nasal passages that appear to be crooked. Because of this, the distribution of the airflow every time a person inhales becomes uneven and affects a person’s ability to breathe normally. Functional rhinoplasty can also be helpful in addressing various nasal conditions or problems, including:

• Nasal deformities as a result of genetic obstructions (e.g. nasal polyps)
• Nasal injury affecting the nose’s breathing capabilities
• Nostrils that either collapse or become narrow

Types of surgical treatments done using functional rhinoplasty

Functional rhinoplasty basically deals with improving the internal parts of the nose. Methods to improve its function are:

1. Nasal Septoplasty – This is a surgical technique that is done by separating the wall dividing the nasal passages’ left and right part that appears deviated, bent, or twisted. In simpler terms, this procedure corrects and straightens a deviated septum.
2. Reduction of Turbinates – Another type of obstruction that can happen in the nasal passage is called turbinate hypertrophy. Turbinates are cavities in the bone that are lined with mucous membranes that stretch all throughout the nasal cavity’s interior. Turbinates can be a cause of obstruction when their tissues grow abnormally and cause the airway to be blocked; resulting to the nose’s breathing dysfunction. Surgery is done to reduce the enlargement and restore the normal airflow through the nasal airway.
3. Removal of Nasal Polyp – A nasal polyp is a type of abnormal tissue growth that becomes an obstruction in the nasal passages. This can be caused by allergens that inflame the linings of the nasal passages. Removing nasal polyps relieves the blockages in the airway, therefore enabling a person to breathe without any struggles.

For patients who also wish to simultaneously want to improve their nose’s function and outer appearance, they may discuss their wishes with their doctor. Functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty can be done at the same time.

Qualified candidates for a functional rhinoplasty

The number one qualifier for a person to undergo functional rhinoplasty is, of course, exhibiting the symptoms that require for the nose to be repaired and improved. In addition to this, doctors have several conditions that must be met by patients. These include:

1. Excellent health
2. Expectations that are realistic based on their anticipated outcomes

Recovery following a functional rhinoplasty procedure

Patients who are looking into undergoing functional rhinoplasty should be prepared to take some time off to aid their nose into recovery. After a surgery, expect your nose to be plastered for a week. Bruising, pain, and swelling should be expected. The pain that may be felt is usually tolerable, but for those with low pain tolerance, your doctor may prescribe an analgesic in order to deal with the discomfort. Swelling in the face will begin to draw back after a few weeks, while it may take up to half a year for the swelling inside the nose to be healed completely.

Insurance coverage for functional rhinoplasty in Singapore

Functional rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that is covered in general by medical insurances in Singapore. On the other hand, a rhinoplasty procedure that is performed for aesthetic reasons is not qualified to get the same exemptions as functional rhinoplasty.

Choosing your doctor for your functional rhinoplasty

The success of your functional rhinoplasty greatly lies in the knowledge, experience, and skill of the surgeon handling your operation. It is crucial that you choose one that has great credibility and years of being able to produce successful surgeries. A botched operation can bring more harm than good to your condition. Aside from health risks and complications, an unsuccessful operation will lead to another procedure, which will incur additional costs. It is highly recommended that individuals who seek to improve their noses’ function do a thorough research about the background of the doctor they are considering before locking down a date for their surgery.