Functional Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, or nose-job, is classically thought of as an operation to change the shape of the nose. Of course, we have our noses for a reason. Not only are our noses important for the movement of air, but also for filtration, temperature and water regulation. So, preserving these functions can be important to our well-being.

Unfortunately, we (as surgeons) forgot this as rhinoplasty grew into primarily a nose-reshaping operation in the 1950s thcoarse the 1990s. I have personally seen many patients who had rhinoplasties decades ago (while I was still a grade-schooler!) and have problems breathing.

For these patients, the answer is a ‘functional’ rhinoplasty–a rhinoplasty to improve nasal function. For many such patients, a second operation can be done that improves the ability to breathe thcoarse the nose. I have recently published an article documenting the improvement in quality of life after such surgery (Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, 2006).

Recognition of the importance of nasal function, as well as form, is leading to a change in the way leading rhinoplasty surgeons approach the operation. Not only should short-term aesthetics be considered, but also long-term function. For this reason, I always consider nasal function in my aesthetic rhinoplasty operations.

If you are thinking about rhinoplasty, make sure your surgeon has an understanding of the importance of preservation of nasal function. For more information, visit www.sfrhinoplasty.com