Whether it’s for functional or aesthetic purposes, rhinoplasty – a ‘nose job’ – is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. Many people get rhinoplasty surgery for practical reasons – breathing difficulty or a badly broken nose, for example. But for someone who isn’t happy with their facial appearance, rhinoplasty can also be a life-changing operation, boosting self-esteem and consequently, mental wellbeing. Whatever your reason for getting rhinoplasty surgery it’s important to do some research to find out just how it can impact your health and other aspects of your life. Let’s look at some of the health benefits it can bring you.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is plastic surgery performed on the nose. There are two types of plastic surgery used – reconstructive surgery that restores the form and functions of the nose and cosmetic surgery that changes the appearance of the nose. Reconstructive surgery aims to deal with the effects of injury to the nose, either by trauma (suffering one or several instances of a broken nose), cartilage damage, blast trauma, birth defects, or nasal valve collapse. The majority of rhinoplasty patients have trouble breathing. Cosmetic rhinoplasty is there to change the contours and shape of the nose, the size of the nostrils, etc in order to improve a person’s appearance.
Physical Health Benefits
The majority of rhinoplasty procedures are carried out for nasal functionality – those with breathing difficulties or other issues in the nose. But even if rhinoplasty is just for aesthetic value, the nose is an essential part of our anatomy, and improving its respiratory function means that there are many other health benefits that come along with the surgery.
Snoring / Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Snoring keeps (some) of us awake at night, but it is actually a common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway becomes blocked by relaxed soft tissue at the back of the throat. This causes irregular breathing and snoring, and a restricted flow of air through the nose is an aggravating factor. Rhinoplasty can help with this by opening up the airways.
Improved Sleep
A restful night’s sleep is incredibly important for our general health and wellbeing. Not sleeping enough, or having interrupted sleep, has links with physical ailments such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and contributes to depression and anxiety. We all know how difficult it is to sleep when we have a cold or hayfever, but many don’t realize that even when we are unconscious our breathing can be interrupted. Clear airways can help maximize restful sleep and minimize blockages.
Sinus Problems
Problems with sinuses can be painful and debilitating, and if bacteria gets trapped inside it can cause infections. These issues occur when the empty spaces behind the facial bones around your nose, in your forehead and upper cheeks fill up with fluid and become inflamed, causing an unpleasant and sometimes painful pressure sensation. Sinus problems can be reduced and in some cases fully eliminated by a rhinoplasty procedure that makes changes to the nasal septum.
Effective Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise relies on maximizing oxygen levels in your bloodstream. If you have breathing difficulties brought on by blocked airways, or if you have had your nose broken, you may struggle when trying to work out. Not being able to get enough air into your lungs will cut short any run or bike ride, and less exercise compromises your physical health and mental wellbeing. A rhinoplasty will aid your breathing and make sure that your workout routine is never compromised by your ability to breathe fully and clearly.
Broken Noses
We’ve mentioned them a few times already, but repairing a broken nose is one of the most common reasons for reconstructive rhinoplasty. Nose breaks are extremely painful when they occur, and can be uncomfortable for a long time. Your surgeon will be able to restore your nose to its pre-break condition, and this should help your breathing and reduce pain.
Self Esteem
Last but not least – having a nose you like is a great boost to self-esteem and mental health. No one wants to feel uncomfortable or ashamed about any aspect of their appearance, and a new nose can boost confidence and happiness.
When you hear ‘nose job’ you probably don’t think about fitness and wellbeing. But there are many unexpected health benefits that stem from a successful rhinoplasty operation that goes well beyond the aesthetic factor that most people tend to associate with the procedure.
Theodora is a passionate blogger from Sydney and she simply loves life and nature. That is why she loves writing about gardening, staying healthy and taking care of your well being. Besides that, she loves martial arts and enjoys being an IT nerd.
