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Rhinoplasty, or “Nose Job”, is often seen as a cosmetic fix in popular culture. But that’s only half the story since it’s less about appearance and more about being able to breathe properly for many people who undergo the procedure. The procedure can fix a range of issues, such as a crooked septum, collapsed bridge, and even a subtle nasal hump. These structural issues inside the nose can quietly affect everyday life by making breathing difficult. That’s where functional rhinoplasty comes in. In this article, we’re looking beyond the mirror and focusing on rhinoplasty for breathing problems.
Synopsis
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the shape or structure of the nose. While it's commonly associated with aesthetic improvements, it also serves important medical purposes. It is also recommended for people dealing with chronic nasal obstruction or breathing issues.
Some of the goals of rhinoplasty include
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Reshaping the nose to improve facial harmony
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Correcting internal defects like a deviated septum
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Repairing damage from injury or trauma
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Improving airflow through the nasal passages
When is Rhinoplasty Suggested?
Rhinoplasty can be recommended for individuals with structural issues within the nose that cause breathing difficulties. These problems usually don’t improve with other treatment approaches alone. Patients are typically advised to undergo surgery when symptoms begin to impact sleep, physical activity, or overall quality of life.
It may be suggested in the following cases:
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Deviated Septum: When the wall between the nostrils is off-centre, it can block airflow. This is commonly treated with septoplasty along with rhinoplasty.
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Nasal Valve Collapse: The outer sides of the nose may collapse inward while breathing. This causes airflow to be restricted, especially during deep inhalation.
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Enlarged Turbinates: Turbinates are curved bone structures inside the nose that warm, humidify, and filter the air. When they become swollen, they can obstruct airflow.
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Trauma or Injury: Nasal fractures can alter both the outer shape and internal support of the nose. Rhinoplasty helps restore function and structure.
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Congenital Defects: Birth-related nasal abnormalities can interfere with normal breathing and often require surgical correction.
What happens during rhinoplasty?
The procedure can take 1 to 3 hours, depending on the specific case and is normally performed under general anaesthesia. Here are some things you can expect from rhinoplasty as nasal obstruction treatment:
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Incisions: Made either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (open rhinoplasty) for better access.
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Reshaping: Bone and cartilage are adjusted to correct structural issues or improve nasal airflow.
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Support Grafts: Cartilage may be added to strengthen weakened areas, especially in cases of nasal valve collapse.
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Closure: Incisions are closed, and internal splints or packing may be placed to support healing.
What happens after the procedure?
After rhinoplasty, your recovery will focus on healing, reducing swelling, and restoring normal breathing. Most patients can return home the same day, but full recovery takes time.
Here’s what typically happens post-surgery:
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Swelling and Bruising: Common around the eyes and nose; usually improves within 1–2 weeks.
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Splints or Packing: May be placed inside the nose to support healing and maintain shape.
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Breathing: Nasal congestion is expected at first but improves as swelling subsides.
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Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous exercise, nose blowing, or wearing glasses for a few weeks.
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Follow-ups: Regular check-ups help monitor healing and address any concerns.
Recovery time from the procedure
The rhinoplasty recovery time is gradual and occurs in stages. Here’s what patients can typically expect:
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1 to 2 Weeks: Most visible swelling and bruising subside. Patients can usually return to work or normal routines.
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After 1 Week: Nasal splints are removed, and some breathing improvement may begin.
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3 to 6 Weeks: Strenuous activities should still be avoided to prevent complications.
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3 Months to 1 year: Subtle internal swelling resolves; final results in nasal shape and breathing become more noticeable.
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Follow-ups: Regular check-ins help track healing and ensure the nose is functioning as expected.
Visit our Plastic, cosmetic, and reconstructive Surgery department at Manipal Hospitals, Old Airport Road, to know more.
Will Rhinoplasty change your face?
When rhinoplasty is performed for functional reasons, the goal is to improve how the nose works and not how it looks. Patients undergoing functional rhinoplasty retain the same facial identity. Any changes to the outer appearance are usually minimal and only made when necessary to support internal repair.
Here’s what you can expect:
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In cases of nasal valve collapse, slight reinforcement may alter the bridge subtly, but not drastically.
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Septoplasty, which is often done alongside rhinoplasty, reshapes internal cartilage with no visible change to the nose.
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If structural grafts are used, they’re carefully placed to maintain natural contours.
Conclusion
Rhinoplasty for breathing problems is an effective solution for people experiencing Chronic nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing during exercise, or disrupted sleep. The procedure targets the root cause and doesn’t alter facial appearance in a significant manner.
Our expert plastic and facial surgeon at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, offers comprehensive evaluations and surgical planning backed by advanced imaging and multidisciplinary care. To explore whether rhinoplasty is right for your condition, schedule a consultation with our team today.
FAQ's
Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on changing the appearance of the nose. Functional rhinoplasty is performed to correct structural issues in the nose that cause breathing problems.
It’s recommended when conditions like a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, or obstructed airflow don’t respond to medical treatment.
In most cases, only minor external changes are made if needed to support internal correction. The procedure is performed in a way to minimise the changes to the nose.
Initial healing takes 1–2 weeks, with most swelling reducing during that time. Full recovery, including final structural and breathing improvements, may take several months.
Functional rhinoplasty improves breathing by correcting structural blockages inside the nose. These open the nasal passages, allowing air to flow more freely and evenly through both nostrils.
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