The Perfect Rhinoplasty: Form and Function

functional rhinoplasty

Form and function are inextricably linked in rhinoplasty surgery. While the perception is often that plastic surgery merely aims to enhance the appearance, for many patients it also improves the function of the body. This is often the case in rhinoplasty procedures.

The innate relationship between the form of the nose and its function means that these two factors must always be considered in conjunction when planning a rhinoplasty procedure. A plastic surgeon must carefully plan and execute the operation based on this principle.

Do no harm

A rhinoplasty procedure can address a wide range of cosmetic issues with a nose; it can change the size of the nostrils, reposition the nostrils, smooth bumps and dips on the bridge, reshape or reposition the tip of the nose and narrow or widen the bridge.

One of the most common requests, though, is to make the nose appear smaller or less prominent and a skilled and experienced practitioner will always be aware of how the nose should function after surgery. Removing too much cartilage can often make the nose function less effectively afterwards and is often a reason people seek a second procedure, known as a revision rhinoplasty.

Breathe easy

Often functional problems will pre-exist surgery. A deviated septum is a common concern that impairs breathing and snoring. Other issues include enlarged turbinates, which can create blockages, nasal polyps and previous nasal trauma that has caused structural problems.

At Karidis Clinic, Mr Alex Karidis works closely with Mr Robert Quiney, an experienced ENT surgeon here at the Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth.

“During your rhinoplasty consultation, we will discuss both form and function,” Mr Alex Karidis explains. “If issues with nasal function are identified, and depending on the degree of the problem, then I recommend they see Mr Quiney for a consultation. If he thinks the functional issues can or should be dealt with surgically, then we will arrange an operation that will cover both aspects.

“We work at the same time; he joins me in the operation and addresses any internal issues that are affecting breathing and then I do the aesthetic side. The patient has best of both worlds.”

After your rhinoplasty procedure, you should notice an improvement of any functional problems as soon as post-surgical swelling begins to subside. Structural changes might be harder to notice at first, but when all swelling and bruising is gone, the improvement to form should be fully visible.

For more advice on a functional rhinoplasty or tip rhinoplasty, call us on 020 7432 8727 to arrange a consultation with Mr Alex Karidis.