Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a very commonly performed type of cosmetic surgery. Many patients choose this procedure as a method for obtaining cosmetic improvements to their nose. However, rhinoplasty also causes nasal adjustments to occur internally, allowing air to flow smoothly from the nose to the lungs. This can alleviate problems such as snoring.
Rhinoplasty’s Effects on Snoring
Snoring occurs due to restricted or obstructed air flow through the nasal passages to the lungs while sleeping. Sometimes it is due to a problem with the septum, the cartilage that is located between the nostrils. This condition is often referred to as deviated septum.
Mild snoring can be a minor annoyance and is often corrected by switching positions, using over-the-counter nasal strips or undergoing certain lifestyle changes. Severe snoring, on the other hand, can disrupt your sleep, as well as your partner’s. It can also cause breathing problems, perhaps leading to a condition known as sleep apnea in which a person actually stops breathing for short periods during sleep.
Rhinoplasty can adjust internal and external defects of the nose that contribute to the snoring that can lead to breathing problems.
About the Procedure
You will receive general anesthetic and, possibly, a numbing paste inside the nostrils. In addition, a solution with adrenaline may be injected to also lessen blood flow. Most surgical work can be done inside of the nose so that scarring is minimal.
An incision is made, usually on the inside of the nasal tip, about an inch long. The skin is then separated in order to accommodate the surgeon’s instruments. If it is determined that you have a crooked, misaligned or deviated septum, that will be addressed first. The septum must be straightened in order to allow air to flow evenly through the nose. Excess cartilage is removed for straightening, while chiseling must be utilized in order to remove any bumps.
Then the area is filed smoothly. In order to make changes to the external size or shape of the nose, it may need to be broken in a controlled type of break. Adjustments are then made, along with necessary stitching afterward. Plaster is then placed around the nose to keep everything in place and to provide protection.
The plaster is removed at a follow-up appointment set a week or later after your surgery.
If you suffer from severe snoring, this procedure could offer you an effective solution. To get started, contact Singhal Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation. We welcome the opportunity to review your concerns and answer any questions you may have. Rhinoplasty provides relief to many patients, allowing them to live a snore-free life.
