Treatment Overview
Airway Obstruction Correction is a type of functional rhinoplasty performed to improve nasal breathing by addressing structural blockages inside the nose. In Korea, surgeons use advanced surgical techniques to correct issues such as deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, nasal valve collapse, or internal scarring that restrict airflow. The goal is not only to restore proper nasal function but also to improve overall quality of life by enhancing breathing, sleep, and comfort.
Purpose & Benefits
- Restores clear nasal airflow and reduces congestion
- Improves sleep quality by reducing snoring and sleep apnea symptoms
- Corrects nasal obstruction caused by septal deviation or turbinate hypertrophy
- Enhances physical performance and stamina by improving oxygen intake
- Can be combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty for both function and aesthetics
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with chronic nasal blockage or difficulty breathing
- Individuals diagnosed with septal deviation or nasal valve collapse
- People suffering from sleep apnea or persistent snoring
- Patients who have had trauma or previous nasal surgery that affected airflow
- Anyone seeking both functional correction and nasal reshaping
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary nasal congestion and swelling
- Mild bleeding during early recovery
- Scar tissue formation in rare cases
- Persistent breathing issues if underlying cause is complex
- Revision surgery may be required in difficult cases
Surgical Techniques Used
- Septoplasty: Straightening a deviated septum
- Turbinate Reduction (Turbinoplasty): Reducing enlarged nasal turbinates
- Nasal Valve Reconstruction: Supporting weak internal or external valves
- Scar Tissue Removal: Clearing airway blockages caused by prior surgeries or trauma
- Often combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty for improved nasal structure and appearance
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 1–2 weeks before resuming normal activities
- Swelling & Congestion: Usually improves significantly in 2–3 weeks
- Breathing Improvement: Noticeable after swelling subsides, typically within 1–2 months
- Aftercare: Use saline sprays, avoid nose-blowing for 1–2 weeks, attend follow-up visits
Results & Longevity
- Provides long-lasting improvement in nasal airflow
- Reduces or eliminates symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea
- Enhances day-to-day breathing comfort
- Results are permanent unless new trauma or nasal conditions develop
Treatment Process in Korea
Korean clinics follow a specialized, step-by-step approach to ensure both safe and effective airway correction:
- Initial Consultation & Diagnostic Tests – including nasal endoscopy and 3D imaging
- Customized Surgical Plan – tailored to the patient’s obstruction cause (septal, turbinate, or valve issue)
- Surgery (1–2 hours) – performed under general or sedation anesthesia
- Immediate Post-Surgery Care – nasal packing or splints may be applied
- Follow-Up Visits – stitches or packing removal, airway evaluation
- Final Results – improved breathing and functional stability after full healing
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Airway Obstruction Correction in Korea depends on the surgical method and whether cosmetic adjustments are included:
- Basic Septoplasty or Turbinoplasty:
₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,600 – $4,500 USD) - Airway + Cosmetic Functional Rhinoplasty:
₩6,500,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW ($4,900 – $7,500 USD) - Complex Revision Cases (scar tissue, valve collapse):
₩10,000,000 – ₩15,000,000 KRW ($7,500 – $11,500 USD)
💡 Many Korean clinics offer combined functional + aesthetic rhinoplasty packages, popular among international patients.
Popular Clinics for Airway Obstruction Correction in Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital (ENT Department) – highly advanced for medical airway surgeries
- ID Hospital (Seoul) – combines functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – specializes in natural airway and nose reshaping
- JW Plastic Surgery – experienced in revision functional rhinoplasty
- View Plastic Surgery – well-known for international patient services
