If you’re having trouble sleeping, you might be experiencing more than insomnia. Many people suffer from breathing problems, which can be particularly troublesome during the night and disrupt sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential to health and mental function and well-being on so many levels, that if you’re experiencing nighttime breathing problems that keep you awake, you should definitely do whatever you can to correct the problem. Many people snore, stop breathing, or breathe poorly at night, which can often be improved with nasal surgery known as functional rhinoplasty. So what is functional rhinoplasty, and what problems can it fix?

Common Causes of Breathing Problems During Sleep

Snoring is often a symptom (not a cause) of poor breathing during the night, and if you snore loudly and regularly, it’s worth looking into whether or not you have a nasal obstruction. One of the most common functional problems of the nose is a deviated septum. This refers to uneven nasal passages due to a crooked or off-center septum (the wall separating the nasal passages) that can make breathing difficult. Another major sleep issue is sleep apnea—which is sometimes caused by obstruction in the nose. There are many causes of nighttime breathing problems, and the exact cause must be assessed on an individual level in each case.

Functional Rhinoplasty for Obstructions

A functional procedure to correct problems of the nasal septum is known as a septoplasty, which solely addresses this one area of the nose. However, rhinoplasty is tailored to suit each individual patient’s needs, and the approach used for each surgery is very different, depending on the type of obstruction and the goals of the procedure.

Cosmetic Benefits

One of the perks of functional rhinoplasty is having the option to combine the procedure with a cosmetic rhinoplasty, improving form and function simultaneously. While some patients wish to simply address the breathing problems affecting their lives, many other patients take the opportunity to fix whatever has been bothering them about their nose for years, or improve overall facial balance and aesthetics. Combining septoplasty and rhinoplasty is a smart and efficient choice for many patients.

The Rhinoplasty Recovery Period

Though functional rhinoplasty is a relatively invasive process, the initial healing period is not especially long or difficult. Discomfort is generally tolerable and controlled with prescribed medication. Most patients feel well enough to return to desk jobs, social activities, and most light normal activities within a week or two. The healing process is gradual, with bruising disappearing over a matter of weeks, and swelling taking months to resolve. Patients need to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks and avoid situations in which the nose might be jostled until healing is complete.

Improved Quality of Life

Once the initial healing period of functional rhinoplasty is over, patients can expect to see an improvement in overall quality of life. Improved breathing and sleep can help with focus, mental acuity, and many other positive changes.

Considering Your Options

If you think you are a good candidate for functional rhinoplasty, then your first step is to get a doctor’s opinion about your condition. If he or she agrees that you could benefit from nasal surgery, then your next step is finding a reputable plastic surgeon to perform your procedure. This is easier said than done, as the procedure is quite difficult and should only be performed by a facial surgery specialist.

If you are looking for a talented surgeon in the Newport Beach (949-650-8882) or Beverly Hills (310-467-2180), CA area, come to Batniji Facial Plastic surgery and meet with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rami K. Batniji. Dr. Batniji performs only facial surgery and treatments, allowing him to hone his skills in complex procedures such as rhinoplasty. If you would like to discuss your needs for functional rhinoplasty with Dr. Batniji, call either location today to schedule your consultation.