Best Functional Rhinoplasty Clinics in Seoul | Cost & Guide

Why Is Functional Rhinoplasty Performed?

• Deviated Septum
  A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum (the cartilage and bone dividing the nostrils) is crooked or displaced, causing breathing difficulties. Functional rhinoplasty can straighten the septum to improve airflow and restore proper breathing.
• Nasal Valve Collapse
  The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and plays a critical role in breathing. If the nasal valve collapses, it can cause a partial obstruction and difficulty breathing. Functional rhinoplasty can address this issue by reconstructing the nasal valve area.
• Enlarged Turbinates
  The turbinates are structures inside the nose that help warm and humidify the air we breathe. When the turbinates become enlarged due to allergies, inflammation, or other factors, they can obstruct airflow. Functional rhinoplasty can reduce the size of the turbinates to improve airflow.
• Chronic Nasal Congestion
  For individuals suffering from chronic nasal congestion due to structural issues, functional rhinoplasty can help relieve blockage and restore normal breathing patterns.

Benefits of Functional Rhinoplasty

• Improved Breathing: The primary goal of functional rhinoplasty is to correct nasal obstructions and improve airflow, making breathing easier and more comfortable.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: By resolving breathing issues, functional rhinoplasty can improve overall health, sleep quality, and physical performance.
• Reduced Snoring: For individuals who snore due to nasal obstructions, functional rhinoplasty can help reduce or eliminate snoring by improving airflow.
• Correct Structural Deformities: Functional rhinoplasty addresses structural issues such as a deviated septum, collapsed nasal valve, and enlarged turbinates, helping to restore normal nasal function.
• Increased Comfort: After surgery, patients often experience significant relief from symptoms like nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and difficulty breathing, leading to increased comfort.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Functional rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's preference. The surgery generally takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the structural issues and changes needed.

Key Steps of the Functional Rhinoplasty Procedure:

• Consultation & Planning
  The first step is a thorough consultation where the surgeon will assess the structure of your nose, review any previous conditions or surgeries, and understand your concerns. The surgeon will discuss the best approach for improving nasal function and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Incision Placement
  Functional rhinoplasty can be performed using either open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty techniques:
• Open Rhinoplasty: An incision is made across the columella (the small strip of tissue between the nostrils), giving the surgeon better access to the internal nasal structures.
• Closed Rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nostrils, meaning there are no visible external scars. This technique is typically used for less complex procedures.
• Reshaping the Nasal Structures
  The surgeon will address the issues causing nasal obstruction, such as straightening the septum, reconstructing the nasal valve, or reducing the size of the turbinates. The surgeon may also address any cosmetic concerns, such as correcting the shape or size of the nose, to enhance both function and appearance.
• Closure & Dressing
  Once the necessary changes are made, the incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a nasal splint or bandage is applied to help support the nose during the healing phase.

Functional rhinoplasty is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day after surgery.

Recovery & Aftercare

The recovery time for functional rhinoplasty is typically 1 to 2 weeks for most patients, though it may take several months to see the full benefits of improved nasal function. Here’s what you can expect:

• Recovery Time: Most patients can return to light activities within 1 week. However, strenuous physical activities should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the nose to heal properly.
• Swelling and Bruising: Mild swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes are common after surgery, but these should subside within 2 to 3 weeks.
• Nasal Splint or Bandages: A nasal splint may be applied to support the newly shaped nose during the initial healing phase. It’s also important to avoid touching or applying pressure to the nose during recovery.
• Follow-up Appointments: Follow-up visits are essential to monitor your recovery, remove any sutures, and ensure the nasal structures are healing correctly.
• Final Results: The final results of functional rhinoplasty will become visible after 6 to 12 months as the swelling fully resolves and the nose settles into its new shape.

By following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions and attending follow-up visits, you can ensure the best possible outcome.

Cost of Functional Rhinoplasty in Korea

The cost of functional rhinoplasty in Korea can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon’s expertise, and the clinic’s location. On average, the cost for functional rhinoplasty in Korea ranges from:

• Functional Rhinoplasty Surgery: ₩4,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW (Approx. $3,200 – $6,400 USD)
• Consultation Fee: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000 KRW (Approx. $40 – $80 USD)
• Post-Surgery Care & Follow-up: Additional costs may apply depending on follow-up care, medications, and post-surgical garments.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified surgeon to get an accurate estimate based on your individual needs.



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