Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery or a nose job, is designed to address cosmetic issues with the nose. Problems fixed by rhinoplasty include:
- Nose Shape and Size
- Nose and Nostril Width
- Bumps/Humps on the Bridge of the Nose
- Upturned or Downturned Nasal Tip
- Asymmetry
- Crooked Presentation
Rhinoplasty corrects the size and shape of the nose to bring it into ideal symmetry with surrounding facial features. It can profoundly impact facial appearance. It is not, however, designed to address septal deviation.
Septal deviation may be congenital or result from injury. Regardless of its cause, the treatment for a deviated septum is septoplasty. People with a septal deviation may experience breathing problems and crooked nose presentation, although the issue is not always externally visible. Rhinoplasty and septoplasty can be combined (septorhinoplasty), but they are ultimately two different procedures.
Does Rhinoplasty Fix Breathing Problems?
Rhinoplasty is not designed to fix a deviated septum, but it can still help improve breathing. During rhinoplasty surgery, turbinates can be reduced and nostril width expanded to help improve breathing obstruction. However, improvement in airflow and breathing capacities is often a pleasant side effect rather than the focus of rhinoplasty. When septal deviation is causing breathing difficulties, septorhinoplasty can be performed to correct both functional and aesthetic issues.
If you are experiencing breathing difficulties and cosmetic discomfort with your nose, talking to one of the board-certified plastic surgeons at Altos Oaks is a great way to learn about your treatment options. During this initial consultation, we will carefully assess the structure of your nose and discuss the best ways to reach your functional and aesthetic goals.
Am I a Good Rhinoplasty Candidate?
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are men and women who are unhappy with their noses' size, shape, or presentation. Good candidates need to be nonsmokers, in generally good health, and ready to follow pre and postoperative directions. Recovery from rhinoplasty can take several weeks, require sleeping in an upright position, and limit your ability to perform specific tasks for four or more weeks. During your initial consultation, we can discuss these things in more detail to help you make the best decision for your body, your lifestyle, and your ultimate goals.
Please call Altos Oaks Plastic Surgery at 650-934-7020 to schedule a consultation today. We serve Mountain View, San Jose, and all nearby communities from our comfortable Los Altos office.