Functional Rhinoplasty addresses conditions that interfere with nasal function. Dr. Peter Abramson at Rhinoplasty Atlanta corrects complications related to nasal function that often arise from internal issues that sometimes have little or no correlation with outward appearance. Some functional issues such as a nasal fracture, deviated septum (depending on where it is located), or a valve collapse have a predictable effect on nasal appearance.
Common causes of functional impediments include:
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal fracture (broken nose)
- Nasal valve stenosis (valve narrowing)
- Enlarged or overactive turbinates
- Septal perforations (a hole or puncture in the nasal septum)
Irregularities in the internal structure can be a congenital condition, present at birth, or may develop as the result of a surgery, injury or trauma, and often lead to problems with nasal breathing. Because of their negative impact on health and quality of life, functional issues are generally considered medical conditions.
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Evaluation and Treatment Plan
Due to the complex nature of functional problems, it is essential that a proper diagnosis is made of the condition before any treatment plan is pursued. Problematic breathing conditions can be influenced by several factors and, if a contributing cause is overlooked or not fully understood, it can lead to a misdiagnosis. Moreover, due to anatomical diversity, the most complete diagnosis will vary case by case. Dr. Abramson has dedicated much of his career to developing advanced techniques for the diagnosis and surgical correction of internal nasal issues.
During a consultation with Dr. Abramson, a medical history will be taken and you will be asked to provide detailed information about the onset or worsening of the problem, past surgeries, injury and/or trauma to the nose.
As part of the physical examination, the exterior and the interior of the nose will be fully evaluated. Dr. Abramson will observe the motion of the nose during restful breathing and more vigorous respiration. This allows him to gain insight into the functioning of the nasal passages, as well as anatomical characteristics that contribute to the obstruction of breathing. For an assessment of the interior of the nose, rhinoscopy allows Dr. Abramson to fully visualize the septum, the inferior turbinates, and the internal nasal valve. As needed, additional diagnostic tests are performed to further delineate potential sources for functional problems.
Once Dr. Abramson determines the scope of the problem and has ruled out contributing factors such as allergies or chronic sinus infections, he can determine the best approach to correct the problem through Functional Rhinoplasty. On many occasions Functional Rhinoplasty can be combined with other procedures such as a Mini Facelift, Chin Augmentation, or a Brow Lift to further enhance a patient’s facial symmetry.
Types of Procedures
Functional Rhinoplasty can alleviate a range of problems that lead to discomfort and improper breathing. Because breathing problems can contribute to sleep apnea and increased risks to overall health, those with severe breathing problems and/or chronic infections should seek a medical diagnosis. Depending on the underlying problem, a variety of surgical techniques can be deployed during a Functional Rhinoplasty.
- Deviated or offset septum: septal reconstruction, or septoplasty can be performed to straighten the septum and facilitate better nasal respiration.
- Fractured or broken nose: Functional Rhinoplasty can repair the nasal bones by straightening the bones and any associated septal deflection or valve issue. In cases where trauma to the nose has compromised the external appearance of the nose, Dr. Abramson can restore the nose during the same procedure.
- Septal perforation: if a patient has septal perforation, grafting techniques can be used to reconstruct the septal wall.
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about Functional Rhinoplasty performed by Dr. Peter Abramson, contact us today at 404-297-1789. Rhinoplasty Atlanta attracks patients from all over the Atlanta Metro area including Milton, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Norcross, Lawrenceville, Tucker, Johns Creek, Decatur, Marietta, Smyrna, Brookhaven, Duluth, Suwanee, Dunwoody and Conyers.