Most people treat rhinoplasty as a purely aesthetic procedure. However, there are cases where this particular procedure is performed to address issues related to the function of the nose in order to restore nasal obstruction. Functional rhinoplasty is a form of surgery that helps correct problems related to the functionality of the nose. The general objective of the procedure is to intervene in the internal or external nasal structures to optimise the flow of air through the nose and paranasal sinuses, in order to improve the quality of nasal breathing as well as the appearance of the nose.
What issues are treated with functional rhinoplasty?
As the name suggests, this type of surgery helps to optimize the functionality of the nose. Often, anatomical abnormalities of the inside of the nose can significantly affect nasal breathing, which may be due to an injury, hereditary factors or environmental irritants. This category includes conditions such as scoliosis of the nasal septum, the development of nasal polyps, dysfunction of the nasal valves, loss of support of the nasal skeleton and hypertrophy of the nasal conchae. These anatomical abnormalities are often found in association with underlying causes of inflammation of the nasal mucosa, such as rhinitis or sinusitis. At the same time, any unwanted bulges, a crooked nose shape or other deformities can often be treated during a functional rhinoplasty.
How is functional rhinoplasty performed?
The restoration of the function of the nose through functional rhinoplasty can be performed either with a closed technique that involves internal incisions, or with an open technique that is performed through a small, invisible incision in the nose bridge. The choice of the most suitable technique is made according to the needs and specificities of each individual case. Now, the evolution of technology and surgical methods allows the simultaneous surgical correction of a scoliotic nasal septum, the nasal conchae cauterization or even the removal of nasal polyps using modern endoscopic techniques. Endoscopic tools offer significant precision in surgical manipulations to correct the anatomical structures that contribute to the manifestation of nasal obstruction, fundamentally treating the underlying pathology. At the same time, a graft from the cartilage of the diaphragm or from the auricle can be used if it is determined that the nose needs additional support.
Functional rhinoplasty: Advantages & postoperative course
Functional rhinoplasty surgery optimises nasal breathing, while annoying snoring, sleep apnea attacks, runny nose, nosebleeds, loss of smell and taste, and frequent cases of sinusitis or pharyngitis are effectively treated. Patients realise that their quality of life is noticeably improved, while their self-confidence is boosted at the same time. If necessary, functional restoration can be combined with aesthetic intervention on the nose. Recovery after a functional rhinoplasty is similar to that of an aesthetic intervention. After surgery, the recovery period is fairly quick and mostly painless. Mild swelling and bruising that is often noticed subsides soon, while the pain is easily tolerated with pain medication. It is important that patients follow the post-operative instructions and be consistent in their post-operative appointments with the surgeon that performed the procedure. More specifically, they are encouraged not to blow their nose for 2 weeks after surgery and to avoid any injury to it while the internal and external structures heal. Activities such as heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and sun exposure should be avoided for a reasonable period of time. Patients can quickly return to their daily activities without pain or discomfort. ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou has a long experience in restoring functional issues of the nose, improving the quality of life of many patients.