29/01/2026
Post‑rhinoplasty breathing difficulty is not always a surgical complication.
It may be a natural part of the healing process, or in some cases, a sign related to specific technical factors.
Possible causes of breathing difficulty after rhinoplasty:
• Edema (swelling)
In the first few weeks, the inside of the nose is swollen and the airway may narrow.
This is the most common and temporary cause.
• Crusting and dryness
As the nasal lining heals, crusts may form and make breathing feel more difficult.
• Turbinate (co**ha) hypertrophy
Some patients may experience reactive turbinate enlargement after surgery.
• Insufficient septal correction
If functional improvements were not adequately performed, airflow may remain limited.
• Nasal valve collapse
Over‑narrowed nasal sidewalls or aggressive aesthetic reduction can compromise airflow.
What is normal, and when should it be evaluated?
• Breathing difficulty is very normal in the first 4–6 weeks
• Noticeable improvement is expected within 2–3 months
• Persistent breathing problems beyond 6 months should be evaluated
A beautiful aesthetic result alone is not enough;
a well‑performed rhinoplasty restores both appearance and functional breathing quality.
