Can rhinoplasty surgery make my breathing worse?

I am want a cosmetic rhinoplasty to make my nose smaller. Is there any chance my breathing could get worse because of the rhinoplasty surgery?

5 answers to “Can rhinoplasty surgery make my...”

A: Rhinoplasty and Breathing Problems

Vincent P. Marin, MD

Patients interested in a rhinoplasty (nasal reshaping) surgery usually want to have a smaller and more refined appearance of their nose. It is very important to remember that as the nose becomes smaller on the outside, it also narrows the airway inside.  This can potentially compromise the passage of air... more

A: Rhinoplasty Should Produce A Good Looking Nose That Works Well!

C. Spencer Cochran, MD

A successful rhinoplasty is one that produces a nose the both looks good and functions correctly. That being said, there are always risks associated with any surgery. Nasal obstruction is a potential risk of rhinoplasty if it is not performed correctly. Choosing the right surgeon is very important to ensure... more

A: Rhinoplasty and breathing issues

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD

Yes, it is possible.  One particularly difficult problem compromising the airway is collapse of the nasal valve.  Simplistically, nature saw fit to supply the nose with a support mechanism which keeps the nasal wall from collapsing when a deep breath is taken through the nose.  It the soft... more

A: Breathing can become worse if conditions such as...

William Portuese, MD

Breathing can become worse if conditions such as turbinate hypertrophy, a deviated septum or allergies are not recognized and addressed prior to or during rhinoplasty.  If surgery is performed to reduce the size of a nose, consequently the noses’ internal volume will be reduced.  This new... more

A: Rhinoplasty shouldn't make you choose between beauty and breathing

Jason Litner, MD

We see many patients who had wanted a more refined nose and ended up with a pinched tip, nasal collapse, and breathing problems. We often enter into a lengthy discussion regarding what would need to be done during a revision surgery to correct both their breathing concerns and improve any aesthetic issues... more

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