Many patients have difficulty breathing through their noses but do not want to dramatically change the appearance of the nose. Often, patients have been told that they have a deviated septum, which is when the internal cartilage and bone that separate the two nostrils (septum) is obstructing one or both nostrils. Sometimes simply correcting a deviated septum improves breathing sufficiently. However, in many cases nasal obstruction is more complex and is due to narrowing of the internal and/or external nasal valves. In these cases, a functional septorhinoplasty is often the best option. During this surgery, Dr. Irvine uses a patient’s own cartilage to create grafts that open the airway. Sometimes these grafts will alter the appearance of the nose slightly, usually for the better, and the goal is always to ensure that the balance and harmony of the nose with the rest of the face is maintained.
Dr. Irvine’s extensive training in the structural septorhinoplasty approach makes her uniquely positioned to balance the cosmetic and functional demands of this surgery to create excellent results.
Recovery after functional rhinoplasty usually takes about 1-2 weeks. After this time, most patients return to work. The scar under the nose may remain red for approximately six weeks. Swelling lasts for two years but most of the swelling is improved within the first three months after surgery.
Before and 6 weeks after a functional septorhinoplasty performed solely to improve nasal airway breathing.
Tip swelling will continue to resolve and scar will continue to improve over the next 10 months.
Before, 6 weeks after, and 4 months after functional open septorhinoplasty surgery
