Can rhinoplasty improve airway obstruction?

Yes, it can, when the obstruction is due to structural abnormalities. Nasal obstruction is a common symptom and it can be as a result of :
1. Structural causes
2. Infection
3. Allergies
4. Vasomotor rhinitis
Structural abnormalities which lead to nasal obstruction include a deviated nasal septum and associated hypertrophy of turbinates, growths and collapse of the internal and external nasal valves.
The cause of nasal obstruction is determined after history taking, clinical examination and investigations like endoscopy. Treatment is based on the cause and it is usually possible to alter the abnormal anatomy to improve air flow. The deviated septum can be re-positioned in the midline. In adults often a part of the septum is removed when it is referred to as septoplasty. Hypertrophy of turbinates (shelf-like protrusions from the sidewalls ) is treated by conservative reduction. Sometimes the abnormal air flow patterns can be as a result of a collapse of internal and external nasal valves. This can be as a result of trauma or surgery. The collapse of the valves is usually managed with cartilage grafts. Addressing the abnormality of the obstruction as well as preventing them becomes an important part of a rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is one area of plastic surgery where both appearance and function are equally important and inseparable.

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