Functional
Rhinoplasty in California

Dr. Zarrabi brings his exceptional expertise in functional rhinoplasty to patients throughout California, offering advanced solutions for those struggling with breathing difficulties. His unique background in maxillofacial surgery and artistic sculpting allows him to achieve perfect results. Our state-of-the-art surgical facility in Corona Del Mar provides an ideal setting for intricate rhinoplasty procedures. We use the latest diagnostic and surgical technologies, including 3D imaging and piezo ultrasonic treatment, to achieve the expected results. Dr. Zarrabi and his professional staff always ensure optimal outcomes, enhancing patient comfort and quality of life.

Functional
Rhinoplasty in California

Dr. Zarrabi brings his exceptional expertise in functional rhinoplasty to patients throughout California, offering advanced solutions for those struggling with breathing difficulties. His unique background in maxillofacial surgery and artistic sculpting allows him to achieve perfect results. Our state-of-the-art surgical facility in Corona Del Mar provides an ideal setting for intricate rhinoplasty procedures. We use the latest diagnostic and surgical technologies, including 3D imaging and piezo ultrasonic treatment, to achieve the expected results. Dr. Zarrabi and his professional staff always ensure optimal outcomes, enhancing patient comfort and quality of life.

What Is Functional Rhinoplasty?

Functional rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that focuses on correcting nasal breathing difficulties and structural abnormalities rather than aesthetic concerns. This nose surgery may address a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, nasal valve collapse, and other problems impairing airflow. While the primary goal is to enhance breathing, the procedure might also involve external modifications to maintain facial harmony and proper nasal structure. Functional rhinoplasty can be performed through an open or closed surgical approach, depending on the specific anatomical issues that must be addressed.
Dr. Zarrabi uses advanced piezo ultrasonic techniques in nose surgery, offering patients precise and controlled modifications. This innovative technology allows for more accurate reshaping of nasal bones while minimizing trauma to surrounding soft tissues. The piezo ultrasonic approach results in less post-operative swelling and bruising, leading to faster recovery times.

Before & After

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Problems Addressed With Functional RhinoplastY

Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall between nasal passages is significantly off-center or crooked, making one airway smaller than it should be. This misalignment can cause difficulty breathing, chronic sinus infections, and frequent nosebleeds. Functional rhinoplasty allows Dr. Zarrabi to straighten the septum, improving airflow and relieving associated symptoms.
Enlarged Turbinates
Turbinates are structures inside the nose that help filter, warm, and humidify air as it flows through nasal passages. When these structures become enlarged due to allergies, infection, or environmental irritants, they may obstruct breathing and cause chronic congestion. Rhinoplasty can reduce the size of turbinates while preserving their essential physiological functions.
Nasal Valve Collapse
The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the airway, located in the middle to lower portion of the nose. When weakened or damaged, this area may collapse inward during breathing, especially inhaling, causing significant airflow obstruction. Functional rhinoplasty strengthens and reconstructs the nasal valve, providing substantial relief.
Nasal Polyps
A polypectomy (removal surgery) is performed when polyps cause breathing difficulties. These benign, soft tissue growths typically develop in the lining of the nasal passages and cause significant airway obstruction, chronic congestion, and reduced quality of life. During the rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Zarrabi can remove the polyps through the nostrils using specialized instruments, such as microdebriders, forceps, and a tiny camera. This additional step helps optimize breathing by clearing obstructed airways.

Consultation & Preparation for Functional Rhinoplasty

Preparation for functional rhinoplasty begins with a comprehensive medical consultation, during which we evaluate the patient’s nasal structure, breathing difficulties, and overall health status. Dr. Zarrabi performs a detailed examination of the external nose and internal passages using the latest diagnostic methods, such as endoscopy and 3D imaging, to assess structural abnormalities. The patient’s medical history, including previous surgeries and underlying conditions, is thoroughly reviewed. Dr. Zarrabi also discusses potential risks and outcomes.
Laboratory tests and medical clearance may be required, particularly for people with pre-existing medical conditions. Dr. Zarrabi also documents the patient’s concerns through detailed photography and uses our innovative 3D imaging technology to illustrate potential outcomes.
Dr. Zarrabi may need to address soft tissue components by removing scar tissue or modifying the internal nasal lining. This helps ensure proper healing and optimal functional outcomes.
Before closure, Dr. Zarrabi makes final adjustments to ensure proper alignment and symmetry. All grafts and structural modifications are secured in their intended positions.
The incisions are carefully closed using fine sutures. Depending on the extent of corrections, they can be dissolvable or non-dissolvable.
The nose job concludes with the placement of internal splints or soft packing to support the newly modified structures. An external splint protects the nose and maintains the new position during healing.
Anesthesia

This plastic surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, though some procedures may be done under local anesthesia with sedation. Our anesthesiology team delivers medications through an IV line to ensure the patient remains unconscious and pain-free.

Dr. Zarrabi may choose either an open or closed approach. The first technique includes a small curved cut between the nostrils, connected to incisions inside the nose. The second method does not involve any external cuts. The chosen approach depends on the specific anatomical issues requiring correction.
Dr. Zarrabi performs a septoplasty if the wall between the nostrils is crooked or shifted to the side. This involves an incision inside the nose to access the cartilage and bone. The deviated portions are straightened or removed with a piezo ultrasonic device while preserving adequate support structure. The septum is then repositioned to the midline to improve airflow.
Enlarged turbinates are addressed through various techniques, including:
  • Partial turbinate resection – removal of part of turbinate tissue
  • Outfracture – gentle displacement of turbinate bones to increase the nasal airway
  • Submucous reduction – removing soft tissue beneath the mucosal lining
Dr. Zarrabi carefully reduces the size of the turbinates while preserving their essential functions of warming and humidifying inhaled air.
Dr. Zarrabi may use various techniques for internal or external valve collapse:
  • PSpreader graftsresection– to widen the nasal airway
  • Alar rim grafts – to improve the shape of the nasal tip
  • Batten grafts to support the sidewall inside the nose
These structural reinforcements help prevent nasal collapse during inhalation and maintain proper breathing.
Anesthesia
Dr. Zarrabi may choose either an open or closed approach. The first technique includes a small curved cut between the nostrils, connected to incisions inside the nose. The second method does not involve any external cuts. The chosen approach depends on the specific anatomical issues requiring correction.
Dr. Zarrabi typically uses an open rhinoplasty approach, making a small cut across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) and connecting it to incisions inside both nostrils. This provides complete visibility of the nasal structure and allows maximum surgical control.
Dr. Zarrabi performs a septoplasty if the wall between the nostrils is crooked or shifted to the side. This involves an incision inside the nose to access the cartilage and bone. The deviated portions are straightened or removed with a piezo ultrasonic device while preserving adequate support structure. The septum is then repositioned to the midline to improve airflow.

Enlarged turbinates are addressed through various techniques, including:

  • Partial turbinate resection – removal of part of turbinate tissue
  • Outfracture – gentle displacement of turbinate bones to increase the nasal airway
  • Submucous reduction – removing soft tissue beneath the mucosal lining

Dr. Zarrabi carefully reduces the size of the turbinates while preserving their essential functions of warming and humidifying inhaled air.

Dr. Zarrabi may use various techniques for internal or external valve collapse:
  • PSpreader graftsresection– to widen the nasal airway
  • Alar rim grafts – to improve the shape of the nasal tip
  • Batten grafts to support the sidewall inside the nose
These structural reinforcements help prevent nasal collapse during inhalation and maintain proper breathing.
Dr. Zarrabi may need to address soft tissue components by removing scar tissue or modifying the internal nasal lining. This helps ensure proper healing and optimal functional outcomes.
Before closure, Dr. Zarrabi makes final adjustments to ensure proper alignment and symmetry. All grafts and structural modifications are secured in their intended positions.
The incisions are carefully closed using fine sutures. Depending on the extent of corrections, they can be dissolvable or non-dissolvable.
The nose job concludes with the placement of internal splints or soft packing to support the newly modified structures. An external splint protects the nose and maintains the new position during healing.

Functional Rhinoplasty Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recovery After Nasal Surgery

In the first week, patients experience the most noticeable swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes. A nasal splint remains in place, and internal packing may be present for 24-48 hours. Breathing through the nose is difficult during this period. To minimize swelling, patients must keep their heads elevated, even while sleeping. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medication. Most patients take this week off from work or school to focus on recovery.
The external splint and remaining stitches are removed around days 7-10. Bruising typically subsides, though swelling remains significant. Breathing through the nose becomes easier. Patients can usually return to work or school, but strenuous activities must still be avoided.
Visible swelling decreases significantly during this period. Breathing continues to improve as internal healing progresses. Light exercise can usually resume, but contact sports remain restricted. The nose is still sensitive to touch. Dr. Zarrabi recommends wearing sunscreen protection outdoors.
By this point, about 90% of the swelling has resolved. Breathing function shows marked improvement. The nose becomes less sensitive to touch, but minor numbness may persist in some areas.
The nose function continues to improve as the final swelling gradually subsides. Breathing typically reaches its optimal level.
The recovery process is considered complete, with all swelling resolved. The final results are fully evident, and the nose has settled permanently. Any residual numbness typically disappears by this point.

Candidates for Functional Rhinoplasty

Individuals With Obstructed Nasal Airways

Candidates for functional rhinoplasty often experience difficulty breathing due to structural issues in the nose, such as a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, or enlarged turbinates. These conditions can obstruct airflow, leading to chronic congestion.

Those With Chronic Sinus Infections

Candidates may also include people who suffer from chronic sinus infections caused by structural abnormalities in the nasal passages. If these issues contribute to ongoing problems despite other treatments, functional rhinoplasty can help improve airflow and reduce the frequency of infections.

People With a History of Nasal Trauma

Individuals who have suffered nasal damage, such as fractures or accidents, may be candidates for functional rhinoplasty if the injury has led to a misalignment or deformity that affects their ability to breathe. The surgery can address both functional and aesthetic concerns related to the trauma.

Individuals With Sleep Apnea or Snoring

People with obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring may also be candidates for functional rhinoplasty if their nasal anatomy contributes to the condition. Our surgery can help alleviate these symptoms by improving airflow through the nose when other treatments have proven ineffective.

Benefits of Functional Rhinoplasty

Functional rhinoplasty offers numerous advantages for individuals experiencing issues with their nasal function. Whether due to structural abnormalities, trauma, or chronic conditions, the surgery can enhance the overall quality of life for those affected. Here are some of the key benefits:
Improved breathing
Better sleep quality
Reduced sinus infections
Increased comfort during physical activity
Long-lasting results
Reduced medication dependence
Faster recovery due to the use of piezo ultrasonic technology

Cost of Functional Rhinoplasty in California

The cost of functional rhinoplasty in California ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the surgeon’s expertise. This price typically includes facility fees, anesthesia expenses, and post-operative care. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, functional nose surgery may be partially covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary to address breathing problems. Other factors that shape the final cost include the required techniques, the surgeon’s location within California (with higher prices generally found in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco), and whether any additional procedures are performed simultaneously.

Dr. Zarrabi provides accurate price quotes during the initial rhinoplasty consultation in our practice in Corona Del Mar. Flexible financing options, such as CareCredit and Cherry, are available.

What Makes Our Facial Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Dr. Shahrouz Zarrabi’s expertise makes him an excellent choice for people seeking functional rhinoplasty. As a board-certified maxillofacial surgeon with advanced training, he combines extensive medical knowledge with a unique artistic perspective. Dr. Zarrabi’s background in sculpting enhances his ability to address both the functional and aesthetic aspects of nose surgery. He has contributed significantly to the field through published works and groundbreaking research, particularly on total nasal reconstruction.

Dr. Zarrabi is committed to safety and high-quality care to maximize patient satisfaction. He offers many treatments in our practice, including ethnic and revision rhinoplasty. It is easy to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zarrabi to learn how he can address your needs and goals!