I box a lot. Would I have to quit if I got a rhinoplasty that I think I desperately need to fix my breathing? (Photo)

Question

So basically my nostrils are weak and small and it's hard to get a sufficient breath in at times and really want to sort it out but was advised by a rhinoplasty surgeon today that if I wanted to get it fixed I would have to quit boxing which I love and want to continue. It would be great help if I could get other perspectives and possible solutions on this problem.

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear Jonnystevens321,

Rhinoplasty as you probably know is a delicate surgery that requires both technical expertise and experience. As such, boxing would definitely put your surgical results at risk.

Best regards,

Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.

o	Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
o	Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
o	RealSelf Top Doctor

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Any forceful punch to your nose could undo the rhinoplasty surgery. Recommend that you wait until you hang up the gloves to schedule the surgery unless breathing becomes labored.

Christopher Costa, MD, MPH · Answer

A procedure can be performed to help open your nostrils and correct your nose, however, it will be very susceptible to damage and collapse if you are still boxing. So it would make sense that if you are going to go through an operation you should do as much as you can to preserve your result or you are at high risk of having the surgery ruined if you get hit in the face.

Douglas M. Stevens, MD · Answer

I would advise waiting until you are ready to give up your boxing career. Best to do it once and have the results last.

I box a lot. Would I have to quit if I got a rhinoplasty that I think I desperately need to fix my breathing? (Photo)

Answers (4)