How Rhinoplasty Can Improve Both the Form and Function of Your Nose

Rhinoplasty can enhance the appearance of your nose and improve breathing at the same time by reshaping bone and cartilage while correcting the nasal airway. At Ben Schultz M.D., board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Schultz designs each rhinoplasty plan to refine proportion on the outside and/or support airflow on the inside — depending on your unique concerns and goals — so your features look balanced and your nose works comfortably day to day. Keep reading for a closer look at how a nose job for breathing problems and aesthetic imperfections can help you look and feel your best in Lutherville, MD. 

What problems does rhinoplasty fix? 

Most concerns addressed with rhinoplasty surgery fall into two groups: appearance and airflow. Cosmetic changes focus on balance and proportion, while functional changes target the internal structures that influence breathing. The goal of a combined cosmetic plus functional nose job is a nose that fits your face and performs well during rest and activity. Some of the most common concerns that can be addressed, improved, or even corrected with nasal surgery include:  

• Crooked nasal bridge 
• Wide nose tip 
• Drooping tip of nose 
• Dorsal hump or bump on nose 
• Nasal asymmetry 
• Valve collapse 
• Deviated septum 
• Turbinate swelling 
• Obstructed breathing 
• Snoring 

Does a functional nose job change how you look? 

Nasal function can improve dramatically when support is restored and obstruction is reduced. Inside the nose, a deviated septum can narrow a passage while enlarged turbinates can clog airflow. Precise septoplasty and turbinate reduction — two common techniques utilized in a functional rhinoplasty — can open space and reduce resistance. If the internal or external nasal valves are weak or collapse with each breath, spreader grafts or alar batten grafts can reinforce the sidewalls to keep the airway stable. On the surface, careful nose contouring can refine a hump or soften a drooping tip without altering your appearance. 

Subtle changes to tip rotation and projection can align your profile while preserving the features that make your face yours. However, if you are hoping for a significant change in the shape, size, or other physical characteristic of your nose in addition to an improvement in your functional symptoms, that can be accomplished as well. Again, Dr. Schultz will customize each rhinoplasty treatment plan to align with your specific concerns and desired outcome. 

How long is recovery after rhinoplasty for breathing problems? 

Whether cosmetic or functional, rhinoplasty recovery will vary somewhat from patient to patient based on the details of the case, individual considerations, and other factors. Generally speaking, patients are able to return to desk work within a week once initial rhinoplasty swelling and splints (if needed) are managed. Residual swelling after a nose job should continue to improve steadily over the next few months. Tip definition and very fine details continue to clarify as tissues settle, which can take up to 12 months. 

Breathing improvements are often noticeable early, once internal swelling subsides, and continue to feel better as healing progresses. Once you have achieved a full recovery after rhinoplasty surgery, you can enjoy your new look, improved nasal function — or both — for decades to come. 

Look and feel your best with advanced rhinoplasty in Lutherville, MD 

If you want a nose that fits your face and also feels comfortable when you breathe, a customized rhinoplasty may be the solution to address both goals with a single plan. Whether your concerns involve cosmetic refinement, functional relief, or both, board-certified plastic surgeon Ben Schultz is here to help. Contact our friendly team at Ben Schultz, M.D., to schedule your Lutherville, MD rhinoplasty consultation today, and get one step closer to the nose you deserve.