Functional rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects abnormalities that obstruct the nasal passage, leading to breathing problems and sinus pressure. A functional rhinoplasty removes the obstructions, straightens a deviated septum, and improves the overall structure of the nose. You may need a functional rhinoplasty if you have congenital issues leading to an obstructed nasal passage or if you’ve suffered a nose injury or trauma. A functional rhinoplasty can also improve the cosmetic appearance of the nose, but that’s not the primary goal.
Functional Rhinoplasty
Goals of Functional Rhinoplasty Include:
- Straighten a deviated septum
- Treat collapsed nasal valves
- Remove nasal polyps
- Improve breathing
- Correct nasal congestion
- Improve sense of smell
- Treat chronic sinus infections
- Reduce sinus pressure headaches
- Improve the nose structure and functions
Candidates for Functional Rhinoplasty:
- Have functional problems related to the nose, such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps, enlarged turbinates, or a collapsed nasal valve
- Have breathing problems, chronic sinus infections, severe nosebleeds, sinus headaches, nasal congestion, dry mouth, and other symptoms of nose problems
- Want to improve overall breathing and quality of life
- Have realistic expectations from the procedure
- Are nonsmokers or willing to stop smoking before and after the procedure
- Can take around two weeks off work and other responsibilities to recover
Functional Rhinoplasty Addresses These Conditions:
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum prevents you from breathing through one nostril, leading to nasal congestion, breathing and snoring issues, and chronic sinus infections. A septoplasty is a type of functional rhinoplasty that straightens and repositions the septum to restore optimal breathing.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are benign growths that can lead to chronic sinus infections and breathing problems. During a functional rhinoplasty, the surgeon will remove the polyps from your nasal passages and sinuses to improve breathing and prevent infections.
Collapsed Nasal Valves
When your nasal valves collapse, you may suffer from bleeding, breathing problems, and congestion. During a functional rhinoplasty, the surgeon may use grafts to support the valves and ensure they remain open, allowing you to breathe properly.
Enlarged Turbinates
The turbinates purify the air passing into your body, but enlarged turbinates can prevent you from breathing comfortably. Turbinectomy is a type of functional rhinoplasty that involves removing/ altering the enlarged turbinates to restore optimal breathing.
Dr. Chiodo’s Functional Rhinoplasty Technique
Dr. Chiodo performs highly personalized functional rhinoplasties after a thorough evaluation. He will discuss your symptoms and goals, review your health history, examine your nasal anatomy, and use imaging tests to visualize the internal structures of your nose. He identifies the structural issues or obstructions leading to your breathing problems and curates a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your condition, he may perform a septoplasty, turbinectomy, or other functional rhinoplasty techniques. The procedure concludes within 3 hours.
Recovery After Functional Rhinoplasty
After functional rhinoplasty, your surgeon will place a nasal splint over your nose to stabilize the nose. You may also need nasal packing to reduce bleeding. You will experience some swelling, tenderness, bruising, and discomfort around the nose for a few weeks, following which the side effects will gradually dissipate. You must take a week or two off work and avoid strenuous workouts for 4 to 6 weeks. Please follow Dr. Chiodo’s aftercare guidelines to ensure optimal healing and recovery.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Michael Chiodo is a plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic surgeries of the face, breast, and body. He curates personalized treatment plans that address your unique functional concerns without risking unwanted complications. You and your significant other will receive Dr. Chiodo’s personal number, allowing you to maintain direct communication with him during the recovery period. Please schedule an appointment to explore your functional rhinoplasty options in Dallas.
