Your nose is in the center of your face. People notice it. The nose also allows us to breathe and smell the fresh blooming flowers in spring and the cool, crisp air in the fall. In other words, the nose has an important job.
Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the nose. People get a rhinoplasty for a variety of reason; mostly dealing with cosmetic issues. Sometimes a nose job is required after an injury or major illness, like cancer.
But rhinoplasty isn’t just about looks anymore. The procedure is being increasingly used to treat other, non-cosmetic, ailments. And because the nose plays such a critical role in our lives, more and more people are finding they can benefit from this procedure.
Below are just a few of the non-cosmetic conditions that rhinoplasty can help with:
Breathing problems
Sometimes the shape of your nose and your nasal cavity can affect the way you breathe. This can lead to discomfort and more serious health problems later in life. Issues with shape can be caused by injuries, or perhaps it’s just the way your nose has developed.
One condition, sleep apnea, is a where the patient stops breathing for a period of time while sleeping. The result can be increased fatigue, irritability, hypertension and increased risk for a heart attack and stroke. There are several causes for sleep apnea, some of which are caused directly by the nose.
If the structure of the nasal cavity is to blame, then something called a functional rhinoplasty might be able to help. By correcting the shape of the nasal passage, a patient will breathe easier, resulting in a better night sleep.
Psychological benefits
With the nose so prominently displayed on the face, any abnormalities can be very noticeable. This can cause anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation. In younger patients, bullying can also be a problem. Rhinoplasty can correct those abnormalities, giving the patient more self-confidence and focus on living life, not dwelling on how their nose looks.
Are you a candidate for rhinoplasty?
Whether you want to improve the way you look, or you have a medical reason for a rhinoplasty, you’ll need to be evaluated by a plastic surgeon. Some factors the surgeon will consider are age, overall health and your goals for the outcome of the surgery.
Your surgeon will want to take x-rays of your nose, and also perform a detailed examination of your nasal cavity. This will give the surgeon a better idea of the problem your facing and how best to correct it. You’ll also be asked for your medical history to avoid complications during and after the procedure.
We’re here to help!
If you’re interested in rhinoplasty, for any reason, call us at our office to schedule a consultation with one of our board certified cosmetic surgeons. From the moment you call, until you walk out the door after your last post-procedure follow-up appointment, you’ll experience the Jefferson difference. Call us today!
