subject: Will My Nose Job Help My Breathing? [print this page] One of the main reasons why people want to have a nose job is to improve their breathing. You may have a problem with your septum, the nasal lining of your nostrils, nostril size and shape, or a combination of all three conditions. Non-surgical and surgical treatment options may work, and hopefully, your breathing will be improved.
Your plastic surgeon will ask for a detailed medical history. Nasal polyps, severe allergies, sinus problems, previous trauma, and other medical conditions may cause an obstruction of your breathing. Addressing this reason medically, not surgically, may result in relief of your breathing problems.
A common problem you may have is a deviated septum. The septum is a piece of bone and cartilage that divides the right and left nostril. In theory, it should be straight, but in reality, it may be curved to one side or the other. If you have sustained a broken nose in the past, this trauma may have caused your septum to go to the left or right. Removing the portion of septum that is obstructing your nasal airway may be the surgical answer to breathing easier.
Another issue may be the nasal lining of your nostrils. If you have nasal polyps, enlarged nasal turbinates, or other problems that are not responding to medical treatment, then you may be a candidate for surgical removal of these nasal problems.
Finally, the size and shape of your nostrils, as well as the strength or weakness of your nasal cartilage, may also be affecting your breathing. Some people simply have collapsible nostrils or weaker cartilage. While, others may have a smaller nostril opening than is normal. Nasal breathing aids such as Breathe Right strips may help. Surgery can also correct this problem, to alter the shape of your nostrils or strengthen the cartilage around it.
An interesting fact is that about 2/3 of patients who have undergone a nose job have breathing problems after their surgery. It is important to make sure you get a complete nasal check up with your plastic surgeon and to maintain good communication before any potential surgery.
