Rhinoplasty for a Deviated Septum Can Help Improve Your Breathing
Rhinoplasty, which is often referred to as a nose job, reshapes the inner and/or outer structure of the nose to address cosmetic imperfections and bring greater balance and symmetry to the face. While rhinoplasty offers many cosmetic benefits, it can be a functional procedure as well.
Many people come to facial plastic surgeon David A. Sherris requesting rhinoplasty to address breathing problems caused by a deviated septum. Rhinoplasty for a deviated septum improves breathing and enhances nasal functions for our Buffalo, NY, patients.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
Many people are familiar with the term deviated septum, but few are aware of exactly what it means. The septum is a thin piece of cartilage that divides the nose into two chambers. The septum is meant to be centered in the nose, so that air can flow easily through both nostrils.
When a septum is deviated, that means that it is off-center, crooked, or uneven. Most people have some deviation in their septum, but if the condition is mild, it shouldn’t cause any problems. More severe deviation can make one side of the nose more narrow than the other, which can lead to breathing problems and other complications.
Potential Complications of a Deviated Septum
It is not uncommon for a person to be unaware that they have a deviated septum. Most people are unfamiliar with the symptoms of a deviated septum, or have grown accustomed to dealing with the symptoms and think they are normal. Potential symptoms of a deviated septum include:
- Frequent nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose
- Nasal pressure
- Facial pain or pressure
- Frequent headaches
In addition to the uncomfortable side effects that can be caused by a deviated septum, it can also interfere with proper nasal drainage and airflow, which increases the risk of nasal infections and obstructive sleep apnea.
How Can Rhinoplasty Improve Breathing?
If a deviated septum is severe enough to constrict air flow or lead to other complications, it may be a good time to consider treatment. Rhinoplasty is the only permanent solution for a deviated septum. During rhinoplasty for a deviated septum, the inside structure of the nose is reshaped. Dr. Sherris alters the shape and/or position of the septum (and possibly removes parts of it altogether) to eliminate nasal obstructions so that our Buffalo patients can breathe easier.
Rhinoplasty to address a deviated septum does not alter the outer tissues of the nose, or the overall appearance of the nose in any way. However, if patients desire to address both cosmetic concerns and a deviated septum, rhinoplasty can be customized to meet those needs.
Contact Us Today
Dr. David Sherris specializes in rhinoplasty to address structural and/or cosmetic flaws affecting the nose. If you are considering rhinoplasty and would like to find out if you are an ideal candidate for treatment, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Sherris. To get started, contact our Buffalo facial plastic surgery practice online, or call (716) 884-5102.
