Functional Rhinoplasty in Houston
At the Texas Center for Facial Plastic Surgery in Houston, we understand that nasal obstruction and breathing difficulties can have a major impact on daily life. Functional rhinoplasty is a specialized procedure designed to restore proper airflow and address structural issues inside the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse.
Our fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Tang Ho and Dr. W. Katherine Kao, perform advanced techniques in septorhinoplasty and nasal airway obstruction surgery to achieve long-lasting breathing improvement while maintaining natural nasal appearance.
Understanding Functional Rhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty, sometimes referred to as sept rhinoplasty, is performed to correct anatomical problems that limit nasal airflow. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which focuses primarily on appearance, functional rhinoplasty restores the internal support structures of the nose to improve breathing and overall nasal function.
Conditions that may be treated with functional rhinoplasty include:
- Deviated septum
- Nasal valve collapse
- Turbinate hypertrophy (enlarged turbinates)
- Loss of cartilage support or saddle nose deformity
This type of breathing improvement nose surgery in Houston is often life-changing, helping patients breathe more easily and sleep more comfortably.
Functional Rhinoplasty Techniques
Our surgeons tailor each procedure to the patient’s needs, using proven methods such as:
- Septoplasty – Straightening or removing the deviated portion of the septum to open the airway
- Valve reconstruction – Placing cartilage grafts (spreader, alar batten, or butterfly grafts) to strengthen weak areas and widen the nasal valve angle
- Cartilage grafting – Using septal, ear, or rib cartilage to rebuild support in cases of severe collapse or saddle nose deformity
- Turbinate reduction – Reshaping or reducing enlarged turbinates that block airflow
Each technique is selected based on the cause of obstruction, ensuring both functional improvement and natural results.
Who Can Benefit from Functional Rhinoplasty and Why?
Anyone experiencing persistent difficulty breathing through the nose may be a candidate for functional rhinoplasty in Houston. This includes patients who:
- Struggle with chronic nasal obstruction or congestion
- Have a deviated septum causing one-sided breathing issues
- Experience nasal valve collapse, especially during exercise or deep breathing
- Snore frequently or have disrupted sleep due to airway blockage
- Have complex structural issues, such as cartilage loss from trauma, prior surgery, or disease
The “why” of functional rhinoplasty comes down to two main goals:
- Restoring function – ensuring clear, consistent airflow through the nose
- Enhancing quality of life – reducing snoring, improving sleep, and eliminating the frustration of constant nasal blockage
Why Choose Functional Rhinoplasty at the Texas Center for Facial Plastic Surgery?
At the Texas Center for Facial Plastic Surgery, our surgeons combine advanced surgical skill with extensive experience in reconstructive and functional nasal procedures. Patients across Houston choose us for:
- Expertise in functional rhinoplasty and deviated septum surgery
- Advanced training in cartilage grafting and nasal valve reconstruction
- Comprehensive evaluation to address both cosmetic and functional goals
- Care delivered within the Texas Medical Center, a nationally recognized hub of medical excellence
Our board-certified surgeons are facial plastic surgery specialists who work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan and deliver results that restore both comfort and confidence. Visit the following pages to learn more about rhinoplasty and the expertise of our team in Houston, TX.
FAQs About Functional Rhinoplasty in Houston
What happens during functional rhinoplasty surgery?
Your surgeon will correct the specific cause of obstruction, often using septoplasty, turbinate reduction, or cartilage grafting to rebuild nasal support. Surgery typically takes several hours and is performed under anesthesia.
What is recovery like after functional rhinoplasty?
Most patients return to work or school in 1–2 weeks. Swelling gradually improves over several months, with breathing improvements often noticeable within the first weeks after surgery.
Who isn’t a candidate, and what are the risks?
Patients with uncontrolled medical conditions or poor healing potential may not be ideal candidates. Risks, while uncommon, include bleeding, infection, or persistent obstruction. These are minimized with experienced surgical care.
What is the cost of functional rhinoplasty in Houston?
Costs vary depending on complexity and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary. Insurance may cover aspects of the surgery when performed for functional reasons. A detailed treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided during your consultation.
Schedule a Functional Rhinoplasty Consultation
If you’re struggling with nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing, functional rhinoplasty may provide lasting relief. Our team at the Texas Center for Facial Plastic Surgery is here to help restore comfort and confidence—contact us in Houston or request an appointment online today.
