Rhinoplasty Surgery
When people think of rhinoplasty, they typically consider the aesthetic benefits. However, rhinoplasty surgery sometimes can improve breathing function for some patients. Here’s what you need to know about rhinoplasty surgery and the various conditions that it can treat.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the shape and size of the nose. As a double-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Shaddix understands that no two patients have the same facial structure or the same cosmetic goals. At our office, your surgical plan will be carefully tailored to your specific needs so that you can achieve an aesthetically pleasing nose in harmony with your facial features.
Types of Rhinoplasty Surgery
There are two approaches for rhinoplasty surgery: open or closed. Open rhinoplasty is a more invasive approach that is recommended for more complex procedures, such as reshaping the nasal bone. During an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Shaddix will make an incision at the base of the nose to expose the underlying cartilage and bone structure of the nose. This gives him a clear view into the nose and proper access to restructure and reshape the nose.
A closed rhinoplasty is performed without any external incisions, which is appealing for some patients. However, this approach is often best for less significant changes that do not require full visibility of the inner nasal structures.
Who is a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty are in overall good health with realistic expectations for their results. Rhinoplasty can be performed on adolescents and young adults, but it is recommended that young adults wait until their noses are fully developed before undergoing surgery.
What Can Rhinoplasty Treat?
Rhinoplasty can treat a variety of concerns regarding the nose’s appearance. Some of the most common cosmetic concerns are:
- Dorsal hump (bump on the bridge of the nose)
- Downturned nasal tip
- Overly large nose
- Boxy nasal tip
Different concerns will be addressed with different rhinoplasty approaches. Dr. Shaddix will discuss this in more detail at your consultation.
Benefits of Rhinoplasty for Breathing
An additional concern that can sometimes be treated with rhinoplasty is difficulty breathing. Breathing problems are most commonly caused by a deviated septum; the septum is the thin wall that divides the two nostrils. When the septum is deviated or shifted to one side, it partially obstructs the airway and blocks airflow. A septoplasty is a surgical procedure specifically designed to treat deviated septums and nasal obstructions, but a rhinoplasty can also be used to make corrections. In some cases, additional benefits of rhinoplasty surgery are that cosmetic concerns can be simultaneously addressed.
It’s important to know that breathing improvements will take time after rhinoplasty surgery. Most of the swelling and bruising reduces during the first two weeks of recovery, but it can take up to a year for all of the swelling to go down. As swelling reduces, you may notice continuing improvements in your ability to breathe properly.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Shaddix relies on a customized approach for each of his patients. Schedule a consultation today at our office in Pensacola, FL, to learn more and get started on your treatment plan.