When most people think of rhinoplasty, they picture a surgery that reshapes the nose for cosmetic reasons. But rhinoplasty can also be performed to improve how your nose functions—specifically, how well you can breathe. This is called functional rhinoplasty, and it focuses on correcting structural problems inside the nose that cause airway obstruction.
Why Functional Rhinoplasty Is Done
Functional rhinoplasty is considered when the nasal structure blocks airflow and makes breathing difficult. Common causes include:
- Deviated septum – when the wall between your nostrils is crooked.
- Enlarged turbinates – swollen tissues inside the nose that reduce space for airflow.
- Nasal valve collapse or narrowing – weakness or narrowing in the narrowest part of the nasal airway.
- Trauma or previous surgery – which may have altered or weakened nasal support.
These issues can lead to symptoms such as constant nasal congestion, mouth breathing, reduced exercise tolerance, snoring, or frequent sinus infections.
How It’s Diagnosed
Surgeons start with a detailed evaluation, which may include:
- Symptom scoring – such as the NOSE (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation) scale to assess severity.
- Physical examination and nasal endoscopy – to check the septum, turbinates, and nasal valves.
- Imaging or airflow tests – when more information is needed, especially after injury or if sinus disease is suspected.
Surgical Techniques Used
Functional rhinoplasty isn’t one single procedure—it’s a combination of techniques chosen based on the cause of the obstruction. These can include:
- Septoplasty – straightening a deviated septum to open the central airway.
- Turbinoplasty – reducing or repositioning enlarged turbinates to create more breathing space.
- Nasal valve repair – using cartilage grafts (like spreader or batten grafts) or implants to strengthen sidewalls and widen the nasal valve.
- Structural support – rebuilding nasal framework if trauma or collapse has weakened it.
The surgery can be performed using an open approach (small incision across the columella) or a closed approach (incisions inside the nostrils), depending on the complexity and access needed.
Learn about “Fixing Uneven Nostrils With Rhinoplasty” and how it can restore both symmetry and confidence.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
While cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on appearance, functional rhinoplasty targets breathing problems. However, both goals can often be addressed in a single surgery. Improving internal nasal structures for airflow can also improve symmetry or shape, and cosmetic refinements can be added without compromising function.
Recovery and Results
Most patients experience swelling and mild bruising for one to two weeks, with significant improvement in breathing noticeable as swelling subsides. Full healing of the nasal tissues and internal structures can take several months.
Results are measured by both subjective improvement (how much better you feel breathing) and objective changes (such as airflow measurements or improved NOSE scores).
Discover “How to Recover from Rhinoplasty: Expert Tips for Best Results” to ensure optimal healing and the best possible results.
Key Takeaways
- Functional rhinoplasty is designed to restore proper breathing by correcting internal nasal structures.
- It may involve septoplasty, turbinate reduction, nasal valve repair, or structural grafting.
- The procedure can be done alone or alongside cosmetic rhinoplasty for combined benefits.
- A thorough diagnosis is essential to identify the exact cause of obstruction and choose the right surgical approach.