Cosmetic vs. Functional Rhinoplasty: What’s the Difference?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed facial surgeries, but not all procedures are the same. Some patients seek rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons — to refine the appearance of the nose — while others pursue it for functional reasons, such as correcting breathing difficulties. At Cosmetic and Reconstructive Specialists of Florida in Fort Lauderdale, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Christopher Low and Dr. Michael Cheung are skilled in both approaches, often combining them to achieve results that improve both form and function.

What Is Cosmetic Rhinoplasty?

Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on enhancing the shape, size, and proportions of the nose to achieve better balance with the rest of the face. Common goals include:

• Refining the nasal tip 
• Straightening a crooked bridge 
• Narrowing wide nostrils 
• Correcting bumps or humps 
• Achieving symmetry after trauma or injury

This type of rhinoplasty is highly customized to achieve harmony between the nose and its surrounding features. Patients often report not only physical improvements but also increased confidence and a greater sense of comfort with their appearance.

What Is Functional Rhinoplasty?

Functional rhinoplasty addresses structural issues that interfere with proper breathing. This can involve correcting a deviated septum, repairing collapsed nasal valves, or reducing enlarged turbinates. Conditions that may benefit from functional rhinoplasty include:

• Chronic nasal obstruction 
• Snoring or sleep apnea linked to nasal structure 
• Difficulty breathing during exercise or daily activities 
• Congenital abnormalities or trauma-related deformities

While the goal is to restore function, many patients also experience cosmetic improvements simultaneously, especially if structural changes alter the external appearance.

Combining Cosmetic and Functional Goals

In many cases, cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty overlap. For example, correcting a deviated septum may also straighten the external bridge. Similarly, reshaping cartilage for better breathing can refine the nasal tip. At CRS of Florida, Dr. Low and Dr. Cheung specialize in blending cosmetic artistry with reconstructive expertise, ensuring patients leave with a nose that not only looks more refined but also functions more effectively.

Choosing the Right Approach

During your consultation, our surgeons take the time to evaluate your anatomy, breathing, and aesthetic goals carefully. This comprehensive approach enables them to design a surgical plan tailored to your unique needs, whether cosmetic, functional, or a combination of both.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re considering rhinoplasty, you don’t have to choose between looking better and breathing better. With the right expertise, you may achieve both. Schedule your consultation at Cosmetic and Reconstructive Specialists of Florida in Fort Lauderdale today. Contact 954-466-0325 to learn more about cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty options.