Can Rhinoplasty Help With Allergies?

05 Apr 2023

Table of Contents

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is an operation to solve problems related nose such as difficulty during breathing, asymmetric shape, etc. But, what about allergies? Or, if you have an allergy, what should you do in the rhinoplasty process? Can rhinoplasty help with allergies?

No, rhinoplasty can’t help with allergies. Because they generally occur when the immune system reacts to something such as medication, food, drink, etc. If it is related to nasal congestion - such as pollens and dust, maybe rhinoplasty can help with airflow relief but doesn’t cure it wholly.

In this article, we will start with understanding rhinoplasty and allergy connections. Then, understanding allergic rhinitis and nose connection will take a place. Finally, we will learn about potential risks and benefits.

Overall, this article may give you clues about rhinoplasty for allergies.

Understanding Rhinoplasty and Allergies

Rhinoplasty is a nasal surgery that helps to change the appearance and function of the nose. This process includes removing needed parts from the inside, reshaping the nose to achieve symmetry, and creating a balance between other facial structures.

But on the other hand, allergies are reactions of the immune system. The reasons for reactions may differ, but the ones that are related to the nasal system are:

Pollens - especially in the spring
Dust
Pet hair/fur
Detergents that have a heavy scent, sometimes perfumes included

Nasal Obstruction and Allergic Rhinitis

Nasal obstruction can be caused by different reasons and it is a common sign of allergic rhinitis. It affects nasal passages and causes trouble during breathing, especially around the spring and summer transition seasons.

It may also lead to sleep problems such as snoring and sleep apnea and other nasal problems like sinus infections.

The medications are prescribed to reduce inflammation. You need to be careful about the environments you take a place in, and using air purifiers at home may help you to breathe more comfortably.

How Rhinoplasty Can Address Nasal Obstruction

Since the structure of the nose can be changed and adjusted by rhinoplasty, your surgeon can access your nasal passages. They can remove the blockages around these passages so that you can have healthier and unproblematic breaths along with good shaped airflow channels.

This procure may help you, particularly around allergy seasons.

rhinoplasty - article image

However, the problems of nasal obstructions may not be solved by only rhinoplasty. Additional surgeries may be decided by your surgeon.

Potential Benefits of Rhinoplasty for Allergies

Even though rhinoplasty doesn’t cure them wholly and is not considered treatment but there are some potential benefits of it. You can think of them as potential benefits.

Reducing the blockages helps to have steady breath.
It helps to reduce the possibility of having chronic sinusitis.
Apart from structural benefits, it has an impact on appearance as well. Rhinoplasty enhances facial symmetry along with harmony.

Risks and Considerations of Rhinoplasty for Allergies

Before undergoing rhinoplasty, there are some possible risks and considerations that you need to be aware of. Knowing them before the operation would be helpful.

Bleeding: Bleeding occurs during the operation and in some cases, can continue during healing. You need to let your surgeon know if you’re having diseases related to the blood or using certain medications.
Pain, swelling, and bruises: After rhinoplasty, it is normal to have pain, swelling, and bruises around your face. They will likely heal within 1 month, and your surgeon may prescribe medications for them.
Additional treatments: If you’re thinking about rhinoplasty only for allergies, it may not give the desired results. Additional treatments might be required to achieve success, and this would be costly.
Patience: Seeing the desired results can take up to 6 months to 1 year, so patience is required before and after the surgery.

Is Rhinoplasty a Viable Option for Allergy Relief?

Rhinoplasty normally doesn’t consider as a viable option for allergy relief since these problems are connected to the immune system even though some of them occur around the nose.

a woman sneezing

But if you’re having difficulties because of the shape of your nose, rhinoplasty may be helpful by improving airflow and doing needed adjustments to open nasal channels. Don’t hesitate to consult your surgeon to discuss possible options.

Keep in mind that getting rhinoplasty only for allergy problems won’t be effective by itself.