Our expert rhinologists are on hand to provide surgical procedures for a variety of nasal blockage disorders. We specialise in functional septorhinoplasty, septoplasty and turbinoplasty.
What is a functional septorhinoplasty?
A functional septorhinoplasty is a form of nasal surgery performed to improve both the external appearance of the nose, along with the internal breathing capabilities. We call it a ‘functional’ surgery, as the procedure is not carried out for cosmetic purposes.
During surgery the structure of the nasal skeleton is addressed to improve nasal breathing. Problems with nasal breathing may occur due to anatomic obstruction of the nasal passages. A deviated septum is an example of this.
In addition to the septum, the nasal skeleton is made up of nasal bones, upper lateral cartilages, and lower lateral cartilages. If any of these portions of the nasal skeleton are crooked or broken, they may cause obstruction of the nasal passages and lead to complaints of nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing through the nose.
What is septoplasty?
A septoplasty is a surgical procedure which corrects a deviated nasal septum. The septum itself is an anatomic structure in the nose – dividing the nose into left and right nasal cavities.
When the septum is crooked, it is referred to as ‘deviated’ and can interfere with nasal breathing. This causes a person to complain of nasal obstruction, congestion or the inability to breathe through one side of their nose.
By undertaking a septoplasty, the deviated portion of the septum is removed to improve nasal airflow and breathing.
What is a turbinoplasty?
Turbinoplasty is a form of surgery aimed at treating nasal turbinate hypertrophy (enlargement). Nasal turbinate hypertrophy is often caused by nasal allergies and is a major cause of nasal congestion or blockage.
The nasal turbinates are vascular structures inside the nasal cavity which warm the air as it enters the nose. However, when the turbinates are enlarged, their ability to keep the nose moist and warm the air is hindered.
Usually, enlarged turbinates can be treated medically. However, if medical management fails, the turbinates can be surgically reduced in size and repositioned to allow for a larger nasal airway. The procedure aims to remove as little tissue as possible in reshaping and repositioning the turbinate.
For further information and advice, contact us
Call us 020 7580 1481