When most people think of rhinoplasty, they imagine a cosmetic nose job—reshaping the nose for a more balanced or refined appearance. But did you know that rhinoplasty can also significantly improve your breathing?
If you suffer from chronic nasal congestion, snoring, or difficulty breathing through your nose, a functional rhinoplasty might be the solution you didn’t know you needed.
What Is Functional Rhinoplasty?
Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which focuses on the nose’s appearance, functional rhinoplasty is designed to correct internal nasal structures that can obstruct airflow. Many patients actually benefit from both cosmetic and functional improvements in a single surgery—achieving better breathing and a more aesthetically pleasing nose.
At our Beverly Hills facial plastic surgery center, we take a dual approach, blending artistry with medical precision to deliver results that look good and help you breathe easier.
Common Breathing Issues Rhinoplasty Can Treat
- Deviated Septum
One of the most common reasons patients seek functional rhinoplasty is a deviated septum—when the cartilage and bone dividing the nasal passages is off-center. This can block airflow on one or both sides and cause symptoms like:
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Mouth breathing
- Frequent sinus infections
A procedure called septoplasty, or nasal septal reconstruction, is often performed alongside rhinoplasty to straighten the septum and restore healthy airflow.
- Collapsed Nasal Valves
Your nasal valve is the narrowest part of your airway. If it collapses during breathing or is naturally narrow, you may notice:
- Difficulty breathing during exercise
- Snoring
- A sensation of “nasal blockage”
Surgical techniques during rhinoplasty can support or widen the nasal valves, making it easier to breathe—especially during physical activity or sleep.
- Enlarged Turbinates
Turbinates are small structures inside the nose that humidify and filter the air. When they become enlarged due to allergies or chronic inflammation, they can obstruct airflow. A turbinate reduction procedure can be safely performed during rhinoplasty, preserving function while restoring nasal openness.
Aesthetic + Functional = Total Transformation
Many of our patients in Beverly Hills choose to combine cosmetic goals with breathing correction. Whether it’s smoothing a dorsal hump, refining a bulbous nasal tip, or straightening the bridge, we can also enhance your nasal function during the same procedure.
The result? A nose that not only looks better—but works better too.
What to Expect from Recovery
After surgery, some swelling and congestion are normal, but as healing progresses, most patients notice significant breathing improvements within a few weeks. Cosmetic changes become more apparent over time, typically peaking around 6–12 months post-op.
With proper technique and care, functional rhinoplasty offers long-lasting relief from nasal obstruction and boosts your confidence with natural-looking results.
Is Rhinoplasty Right for You?
If you’re dealing with breathing issues, snoring, or chronic nasal congestion—and you’re curious about how surgery might help—you’re not alone. Many patients don’t realize that rhinoplasty could be a medical necessity, not just a cosmetic choice.
Ready to breathe easier and feel more confident in your appearance? Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Julie Edween, a double board-certified Ears Nose and Throat specialist and Facial Plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills today. We’ll walk you through your options and create a treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and goals.