Q. If there is a functional problem (difficulty breathing), can nose surgery be performed even at a young age?

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Q. If there is a functional problem (difficulty breathing), can nose surgery be performed even at a young age?

In some cases, surgery may be considered exceptionally.

However, in such cases, the surgery must be for a clear treatment purpose rather than for cosmetic reasons, and it is decided only under very strict criteria.

Functional problems that may be considered for surgery in young patients typically include:

Persistent nasal congestion due to congenital structural abnormalities

Severe septal deviation that makes normal breathing through one or both nostrils difficult

Breathing difficulties during sleep or a long-established habit of breathing through the mouth due to abnormalities in the internal nasal structure, and similar cases

These problems are not simply a feeling of stuffiness or discomfort, but cases in which objective functional impairment is confirmed to the extent that normal nasal breathing is almost impossible or sleep quality is continuously reduced,

and the condition may affect growth, concentration, and learning ability.

In the diagnostic process as well, we do not make a judgment lightly; through nasal endoscopy, imaging tests, and breathing assessments,

we check whether functional impairment is actually occurring due to structural problems. Even if surgery is decided, functional surgery performed on young patients may also be done by limiting correction only to the necessary areas, within a range that minimizes any impact on growth.

Another important point is sufficient consultation with the parent or guardian. When nose surgery at a young age is not simply a matter of whether it can be done, but there is a clear limitation in daily life due to a functional problem, we consider surgery for treatment purposes and it must be decided through thorough consultation.