From a purely biological point of view, the human nose is designed to help you breathe and smell. The airways that start in your nostrils also play a key role in helping your sinus cavities function normally. But for some people, their nose can also affect how they feel about themselves, or it can be a contributing factor to issues with sleep, breathing, or sinus problems. If you do need a procedure performed that involves your nose, you’ll likely be referred to a nose surgeon. Here’s a closer look at what this type of doctor may be able to do for you.
Improving Your Nose’s Appearance
Some people are born with prominent or misshapen noses. Other times, birth defects affect the way a nose appears and, to some extent, functions. If this is what you’re dealing with, a nose surgeon can perform procedures to restore your nose’s shape and achieve the desired appearance. You may then enjoy not only a boost in self-esteem, but an improved ability to properly breathe and maintain clear airways.
Repairing Damage from Accidents
No matter how hard you try, it’s not possible to avoid every possible accident that could affect your nose. A nose can be injured by everything from an unexpected fall on a hard surface to a blow sustained while playing contact sports or a car accident. Not every nose-related accident requires surgery. But if the damage is severe or potentially life-threatening, a nose surgeon may perform corrective procedures as soon as possible. Generally, the sooner a nose is surgically treated, the more likely it is that the damage can be successfully reversed.
Restoring Breathing Capabilities
A normal nose is divided by firm tissue called a septum. If this dividing tissue is too far off to one side or another, it’s referred to as a deviated septum. This is one reason why a referral may be made to a nose surgeon. Some patients prefer to use the need for surgery to improve breathing capabilities as an excuse to also make cosmetic changes to the appearance of their nose, although this is entirely optional.
Resolving Sinus Problems
If your sinus infections are related to a deviated septum or a similar abnormality affecting structures within your nose or sinus cavities, surgery may be recommended. After having surgery, you may notice an improved quality of daily life and experience fewer issues with disruptive sinus-related symptoms.
Whether you are unhappy with your nose’s appearance or in need of corrective surgery to help you breathe and sleep better, nose surgery can be a productive and personally satisfying experience. Barring an emergency situation, a good way to get started with any type of nose-related procedure is to visit the office of Steven Dayan, MD in Chicago. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our nose surgeon!
