Can Rhinoplasty Improve Breathing?

How can rhinoplasty enhance breathing and nasal function? Dr. Sturm discusses the ways rhinoplasty can improve breathing. With ENT training, she focuses on nose function before form. By using spreader graphs, she subtly widens certain nose areas, which can enhance appearance and breathing. Techniques like structural and preservation rhinoplasty maintain or improve breathing while achieving desired nasal shapes. For individuals with breathing issues, rhinoplasty offers an opportunity to address conditions such as deviated septum or turbinate hypertrophy. Procedures like septoplasty and turbinate reduction can be performed alongside rhinoplasty without increasing recovery time or cost.  Key Takeaways 1. Rhinoplasty can improve breathing, particularly when conducted with a focus on nasal function. As a facial plastic surgeon with ENT training, Dr. Angela Sturm prioritizes function over form, meaning she will consider and often enhance nasal breathing as part of the rhinoplasty procedure. 2. Techniques like structural rhinoplasty with the inclusion of "spreader grafts" can help both shape the nose aesthetically and improve breathing by widening certain areas. These techniques often lead to better breathing outcomes even when patients initially report no functional issues. 3. Rhinoplasty is an opportunity to address various nasal issues, including a deviated septum or turbinate hypertrophy, which can affect breathing. Performing procedures such as septoplasty and reducing inferior turbinates during a rhinoplasty can optimize nasal airflow. 4. Dr. Sturm emphasizes that enhancing the nose's appearance and its function can be seamlessly combined in a single surgical procedure. This holistic approach does not extend recovery time or increase cost, allowing patients to benefit from improved aesthetics and functionality simultaneously. 5. A thorough evaluation during a consultation helps identify any additional nasal issues that can be addressed during rhinoplasty. This personalized assessment ensures a comprehensive treatment plan that optimizes both the aesthetic and functional outcomes of the surgery. Subscribe to Beauty Unveiled on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Schedule a consult with Dr. Sturm HERE. Follow Dr. Sturm on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.