When you hear someone say that they’ve had rhinoplasty done, the first thing that pops into your mind is that they had cosmetic surgery done to improve the way that they look. And it’s true that rhinoplasty is an amazing tool that can help an individual who is not happy with the appearance of their nose. However, in addition to cosmetic rhinoplasty, there are individuals who have the procedure performed for functional reasons. One of the major reasons why people have functional rhinoplasty performed is because they want to repair a deviated septum.
So, how does this work? How can a functional nose job help a deviated septum? Well, it all comes down to thinking about the way that your nose works. Aesthetically, your nose is in the center of your face. That’s why even minor adjustments in the appearance of your nose can have a drastic impact on the way that you look. However, your nose is also at the heart of your ability to breathe. Just a minor problem with your nasal passages, like a deviated septum, can affect your ability to breathe and your ability to sleep.
As with most things, when your nose is working properly, it usually looks its best. However, when your nose is not functioning properly, or when there is a problem with your septum, it is often externally visible. You may have a crooked nose or a nose that has a peculiar shape. Closed rhinoplasty can make your nose work properly as well as look better.
Your septum is the portion that separates the two halves of your nose and it runs down the middle of your nose behind the skin (columella) separating the nostrils. Your septum is made up of bone and cartilage. When your septum becomes deviated, breathing can become a challenge. And as mentioned, when your septum is deviated or pushed to one side or another, it can have an impact on the way that your nose looks.
Functional rhinoplasty is designed to straighten the cartilage or the bone that makes up the septum inside your nose. While the end result of functional rhinoplasty is that you look better, its primary goal is to make you breathe better. It’s designed to minimize symptoms of obstructed breathing like snoring and eating with your mouth open.
Dr. Steven Dayan proudly specializes in the closed rhinoplasty technique. During a consultation at his office in Chicago, you can learn more about the procedure, as well as how it can benefit you specifically. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our board-certified surgeon!
