When people think of a nose job, they most likely think that it is a procedure done for cosmetic purposes. However, nose jobs – or “rhinoplasty” as they are officially known – are often done for medical reasons. Read on to find out how a rhinoplasty procedure can help you to not only look better but feel better!

What happens during a nose job?

Before the procedure, you and your doctor will discuss the changes you would like to see or the health problems you are having that rhinoplasty may be able to help. During a nose job procedure, the size or shape of the nose is changed by adjusting the bone and cartilage underneath the skin. It is performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia and takes 1 to 2 hours. Many patients are able to go home a few hours after the procedure, and most patients report there is very little pain afterward.

How can a nose job help with health issues?

Very often, breathing and sleeping issues are the result of a structural problem in the nose. If you are having problems breathing, a nose job can correct the septum (the wall between the two parts of the nose), which can cause problems if it is crooked. A nose job can also help if you snore – cartilage can be removed or adjusted, and the septum can be straightened. These are two common causes of snoring. (Of course, if you snore for other reasons, such as allergies, obesity, or asthma, rhinoplasty may not be able to help you.)

Rhinoplasty can also help if you have problems sleeping. Nasal passages can become blocked, which can cause minor sleep issues or very serious ones, such as sleep apnea. In sleep apnea, the patient stops breathing over and over again throughout the night. They may not even realize they are doing it – they just know they are tired all the time. Over time, this can result in serious health problems.

Whether you are interested in a nose job for cosmetic or medical reasons, contact Dr. Barrera for a rhinoplasty consultation. Call (713) 468-5200 today!