Does reductive rhinoplasty create or worsen breathing problems?

Question

I need my bridge, tip and nostrils narrowed. Logically, it seems like narrowing these aspects would narrow the nasal airway and decrease airflow. I have no breathing issues but my nose is very wide, and my nostrils are very big so I'm able to breathe freely. If my nostrils, tip and bridge are made smaller, won't this lead to a smaller airway and subsequent breathing problems? Or do doctors open the airway by turbinoplasty and spreader grafts to prevent this from happening?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I have not experienced a breathing problem after rhinoplasty, but I think this is somewhat technique dependent.Find a board certified plastic surgeon who performs hundreds  
of rhinoplasties and rhinoplasty revisions each year.  Then look at the 
 plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a   
sense of who can deliver the results. 	Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

It is possible that making the nose smaller could create breathing issues. However, there are usually a handful of techniques that can be used to either support the airway or improve the airway following reduction rhinoplasty. Discuss this with your rhinoplasty specialist to ensure that they have the skill to not only make your nose smaller and more refined but also to maintain your ability to breathe through your nose.

George C. Peck, Jr, MD · Answer

Yes, a reduction rhinoplasty usually involves lowering the dorsal bump, narrowing the bridge (infracture), sculpting the nasal tip, and the removal of cartilage. This removal of tissue and narrowing of the bones may potentially narrow the airway. However in most cases, a reduction rhinoplasty in a patient without an airway obstruction does not cause difficulty breathing. Difficulty breathing is associated with a deviated septum and or enlarged turbinates. Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with experience in nasal surgery.Best wishes

Does reductive rhinoplasty create or worsen breathing problems?

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