Functional rhinoplasty is a type of nose surgery performed to correct structural issues with the nose that impair nasal breathing. Dr. Stephen B. Baker is a board-certified plastic surgeon and leading authority on rhinoplasty who has helped countless patients enhance their quality of life and breathe easier with functional rhinoplasty procedures in Washington, D.C.

Understanding Functional Rhinoplasty

Nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, can resolve numerous concerns with the structure and appearance of the nose. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which is performed to enhance the proportions and contours of the nose for aesthetic reasons, functional rhinoplasty is performed for medical reasons.

While the primary goal of functional rhinoplasty is to repair structural abnormalities that obstruct nasal breathing, cosmetic improvements can be a secondary benefit. Dr. Baker can combine cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty for patients who want to address aesthetic concerns, as well as breathing issues.

Common Conditions Addressed by Functional Rhinoplasty

  • Deviated Septum – The septum is the cartilage and bone inside the nose that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils. When it is significantly crooked or off-center, it is termed a deviated septum. Depending on the nature and severity of deviation, the patient may have difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.
  • Nasal Valve Collapse – This occurs when the nasal valve, the narrowest part of the nasal airway, weakens or narrows, impeding the flow of air.
  • Turbinate Hypertrophy – The turbinates are small structures within the nose that cleanse and humidify the air as it passes through the nasal passages. When enlarged, they can restrict airflow and cause congestion.

Benefits of Functional Rhinoplasty

Patients with impaired nasal breathing often find that their functional rhinoplasty results dramatically improve their quality of life. Benefits of this procedure include:

  • Improved airflow – The most immediate and noticeable benefit is optimized nasal breathing. Once obstructions are removed and the nasal structure is repaired, patients often experience a significant improvement in airflow through the nose.
  • Reduced nasal congestion and snoring – Correcting structural issues can decrease the occurrence of nasal congestion and may reduce snoring, contributing to better sleep.
  • Enhanced exercise capability: Improved nasal breathing makes physical activity more comfortable and enjoyable, as adequate airflow allows for increased oxygen intake.
  • Long-lasting results – Results are intended to last a lifetime, as the corrections made during your procedure permanently change the nasal structure.

Schedule a Consultation

By addressing the structural causes of obstructed nasal breathing, functional rhinoplasty makes it possible for patients to breathe easier and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle. If you’re struggling with nasal breathing issues and would like to find out if you are a candidate for functional rhinoplasty, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen B. Baker.