Nose Surgery May Address Breathing Issues, Improve Quality of Life
Both facial surgeons and Otolaryngologists help patients resolve problems of airway obstruction in the nose, which are typically caused by “nasal deviation”. In a technique similar to rhinoplasty, a surgeon can correct this deviation – by straightening the airway and nose – to resolve breathing problems.
Why is this important? Because nasal deviation was recently linked to depression and lower quality of life. In a new study, plastic surgeons at the Universidade Federal de São Paulo selected 32 people with nasal deviation and 28 with normal-functioning nasal anatomy. By photographing and mapping the nasal structure, they could positively determine whether or not a patient exhibited nasal deviation. A survey was then used to measure factors such as their self-esteem and mental health.
The doctors found some interesting correlations between nasal deviation and quality of life. They write (emphasis added):
Nasal deviation was found to be a risk factor for depression, and had a negative impact on quality of life. Patients with nasal deviation reported higher depression scores [compared to the control group].
Given this assessment, surgical correction of these problems may be quite beneficial. But how is nasal deviation corrected? If you have a deviated septum or some other form of nasal deviation, your facial surgeons may recommend e a variety of techniques for improvement of breathing. Septoplasty is one common procedure, which balances the nasal airways through surgical reshaping of the nasal cartilage and bone. Less common corrective techniques include turbinectomy or cartilage grafting.
The study referenced above can be accessed through Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, in their e-published ahead-of-print feature.
Read more about nose surgery in Cincinnati.
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