Is a Functional Septorhinoplasty Painful?

Most patients are surprised by how manageable the recovery is. The procedure is performed under anesthesia so that you won’t feel any discomfort during surgery. Afterward, patients typically experience only a feeling of congestion, pressure, and mild soreness, rather than sharp pain. Prescription or over-the-counter medications can easily control discomfort, and most patients find recovery tolerable.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

You will begin with a consultation, followed by your surgery, and at least two to three follow-up visits in the weeks after surgery. These check-ins enable your surgeon to monitor your healing, remove any splints or sutures, and address any questions you may have. Additional follow-up appointments may be scheduled over the next several months to ensure your breathing and cosmetic results are progressing as expected.

How Long Until I See Results?

Functional results, such as easier breathing, may be noticed as soon as swelling begins to subside within the first few weeks. Cosmetic improvements also become visible as bruising and swelling diminish, usually around 2–4 weeks. Final results, both functional and aesthetic, continue to refine over the course of 6–12 months as tissues fully settle.

Can I Combine a Functional Septorhinoplasty With Other Procedures?

Yes. Many patients combine functional septorhinoplasty with cosmetic rhinoplasty for a comprehensive approach. Other complementary procedures include chin augmentation, eyelid surgery, or a neck lift if indicated. Combining procedures can minimize downtime and create a more balanced overall facial result.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Functional Septorhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, functional septorhinoplasty carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, or anesthesia complications. Specific risks include persistent breathing issues, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with cosmetic appearance. However, when performed by experienced surgeons such as Dr. Wachal and Dr. Kleiman, complications are rare, and outcomes are typically very successful. Careful aftercare and follow-up help ensure safe, predictable healing.

Annapolis, Maryland

Functional Septorhinoplasty

Introduction to Functional Septorhinoplasty

Breathing should be effortless, but for many people, structural issues within the nose make it difficult to achieve the necessary airflow. Chronic congestion, nasal obstruction, and difficulty sleeping are all signs that your nasal passages may not be functioning properly. Functional septorhinoplasty is a specialized surgical procedure that addresses both internal structural issues and the external appearance of the nose. At Anne Arundel Facial Plastic Surgery in Maryland, Dr. Brandon Wachal and Dr. Lee A. Kleiman provides expert care for patients in Annapolis and Severna Park to help you breathe better and feel more confident in your appearance.

A image showing Dr. Washal, a surgeon, performing a procedure on a patient. He is wearing a surgical mask, glasses, a headlamp, and surgical gloves, with his hands near the patient's face. - Functional Rhinplasty in Severna Park, MD

What is a Functional Septorhinoplasty?

A functional septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves nasal breathing by correcting a deviated septum and repairing other internal nasal structures, while also refining the nose’s outer appearance. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which focuses solely on appearance, this procedure prioritizes function, ensuring that the airway is clear and well-supported. The surgery may involve straightening the septum, reducing enlarged turbinates, reinforcing weak cartilage, or repairing previous nasal trauma, all while maintaining or enhancing the aesthetics of the nose. It is often recommended for patients who struggle with chronic nasal obstruction, snoring, sinus infections, or breathing difficulties that do not improve with medical therapy.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Functional Septorhinoplasty?

The best candidates are patients whose nasal issues interfere with daily life, comfort, or self-confidence. You may be a good candidate in Maryland if you:

Have a deviated septum, collapsed nasal valves, or enlarged turbinates that make breathing difficult.
Experience frequent sinus infections, headaches, or snoring linked to nasal obstruction.
Have suffered nasal trauma that caused functional or cosmetic issues.
Are in good overall health and do not smoke, or are willing to stop before and after surgery.
Want to combine functional correction with cosmetic refinement for a more balanced result.

Many patients who choose functional septorhinoplasty seek both improved breathing and subtle changes to their nasal appearance, and our surgeons specialize in tailoring each procedure to meet individual goals.

What Are the Benefits of a Functional Septorhinoplasty?

Functional septorhinoplasty offers patients a comprehensive range of improvements, both medically and aesthetically:

Restored breathing function through correction of septal deviation, collapsed valves, or other obstructions.
Relief from chronic symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, sinus infections, and snoring.
Enhanced appearance by refining nasal shape and symmetry while preserving natural character.
Improved sleep quality and exercise tolerance due to easier airflow.
Boosted confidence from having a nose that not only feels better but looks better, too.
Long-term results since structural improvements are permanent and designed to maintain stability over time.

What’s the First Step?

Your Functional Septorhinoplasty Journey with Dr. Wachal

During a consultation in Maryland, Dr. Wachal or Dr. Kleiman will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and may recommend imaging to better assess the internal structure of your nose. They will then discuss your breathing challenges, cosmetic concerns, and desired outcomes. This consultation is an opportunity to ask questions, review your treatment options, and develop a personalized surgical plan. We’ll review financing options, discuss insurance if applicable, and address any other concerns or needs you may have.

A male doctor, Dr. Washal, wearing a gray suit jacket and white shirt, is seated at a wooden desk while consulting with a female patient. He is holding a tablet displaying before and after images of another patient's facial procedure, pointing to the images with a stylus.

What to Expect on the Day of Functional Septorhinoplasty Surgery

Functional septorhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia in one of our Maryland offices. Your surgeon will make precise incisions, often hidden inside the nose, to access the septum, cartilage, and nasal valves. Depending on your needs, cartilage may be repositioned, reinforced, or reshaped, and excess tissue may be reduced to improve airflow. If cosmetic refinements are planned, they will be performed at the same time to create a balanced, natural-looking nose. Once complete, sutures are placed, and splints may be used to support the healing process. The surgery typically lasts two to three hours, and most patients are able to return home on the same day.

Dr. Lee in a black suit and white shirt consulting with a female patient. The patient is touching her cheek while the doctor looks toward the camera with a slight smile. A mirror and abstract artwork are visible in the background.

Functional Septorhinoplasty Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Functional Septorhinoplasty Care

Recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery, but most patients experience swelling, congestion, and mild discomfort during the first week. Nasal splints are removed within 5–7 days, and most people feel comfortable resuming normal daily activities at that time. Bruising around the eyes may occur but usually fades within 1 to 2 weeks. Breathing often improves noticeably as swelling decreases; however, final functional and cosmetic results may take several months to develop fully.

How Much Does a Functional Septorhinoplasty Cost in Maryland?

The cost of a Functional Septorhinoplasty in Annapolis, Severna Park, and the rest of Maryland depends on the complexity of the case, whether cosmetic refinements are included, and insurance coverage. Since functional septorhinoplasty addresses medical breathing problems, a portion of the surgery may be covered by health insurance. Patients should verify coverage with their provider, as cosmetic enhancements are generally not covered. At Anne Arundel Facial Plastic Surgery, we provide detailed cost estimates during consultation and offer financing options to help make treatment accessible.

Why Choose Us?

A full-length image of two male doctors standing side-by-side in a stylish office or waiting area. Dr. Lee, on the right, is wearing a black suit and white shirt with his arms crossed. The other doctor, Dr. Washal, is on the left, wearing a light gray suit and white shirt with his hands clasped in front of him.

At Anne Arundel Facial Plastic Surgery, patients benefit from the combined expertise of Dr. Brandon Wachal and Dr. Lee A. Kleiman are dual board-certified surgeon with advanced training in both functional and cosmetic nasal surgery. Their dual focus ensures that patients receive care that not only restores breathing but also refines appearance in a natural and balanced way. Our team prioritizes personalized care, from your first consultation to your final results, with tried-and-true techniques and a compassionate approach that sets us apart.

Functional Septorhinoplasty FAQ’S

Most patients are surprised by how manageable the recovery is. The procedure is performed under anesthesia so that you won’t feel any discomfort during surgery. Afterward, patients typically experience only a feeling of congestion, pressure, and mild soreness, rather than sharp pain. Prescription or over-the-counter medications can easily control discomfort, and most patients find recovery tolerable.
You will begin with a consultation, followed by your surgery, and at least two to three follow-up visits in the weeks after surgery. These check-ins enable your surgeon to monitor your healing, remove any splints or sutures, and address any questions you may have. Additional follow-up appointments may be scheduled over the next several months to ensure your breathing and cosmetic results are progressing as expected.
Functional results, such as easier breathing, may be noticed as soon as swelling begins to subside within the first few weeks. Cosmetic improvements also become visible as bruising and swelling diminish, usually around 2–4 weeks. Final results, both functional and aesthetic, continue to refine over the course of 6–12 months as tissues fully settle.
As with any surgery, functional septorhinoplasty carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, or anesthesia complications. Specific risks include persistent breathing issues, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with cosmetic appearance. However, when performed by experienced surgeons such as Dr. Wachal and Dr. Kleiman, complications are rare, and outcomes are typically very successful. Careful aftercare and follow-up help ensure safe, predictable healing.

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Dr. Wachal is a blessing to patients seeking facial rejuvenation and natural beauty enhancements.

His state-of-the-art, in-house surgical suite is fully equipped—even for emergencies—helping reduce patient costs without compromising safety or results. The office is immaculately hygienic and designed for comfort and care.

Schedule Your Consultation

If nasal obstruction, chronic congestion, or dissatisfaction with your nose is affecting your quality of life, functional septorhinoplasty may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact Anne Arundel Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation in Annapolis or Severna Park, Maryland.

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