Treatment Overview
Widened airway surgery is a type of functional rhinoplasty designed to enlarge the nasal passages for patients struggling with chronic nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, or sleep-related breathing disorders. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which focuses primarily on appearance, widened airway procedures in Korea emphasize functional correction to restore comfortable and efficient airflow while maintaining natural nasal aesthetics.
Korean surgeons combine ENT medical expertise with advanced plastic surgery techniques, using endoscopy, CT scans, and 3D modeling to precisely identify the blocked or narrowed regions and customize surgical solutions.
Purpose & Benefits
- Expands narrowed nasal passages to allow free, unobstructed breathing
- Reduces snoring and sleep apnea symptoms
- Enhances oxygen intake and overall respiratory function
- Relieves chronic nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and headaches
- Improves daytime energy and sleep quality
- Provides permanent relief when medical treatments (sprays, medications) are ineffective
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with narrow nasal airways due to congenital structure or trauma
- Those with chronic nasal blockage not responding to non-surgical treatments
- Individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea, snoring, or nasal valve collapse
- Patients who previously underwent rhinoplasty but developed airway narrowing
- Anyone seeking both functional correction and natural cosmetic balance
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling and nasal congestion
- Mild bleeding in the early recovery stage
- Scar tissue formation inside the nasal passages (rare)
- Irregular nasal contour if combined with cosmetic correction (rare with expert surgeons)
- Possible need for revision surgery in severe or complex cases
Surgical Techniques Used
To widen the airway, surgeons in Korea may use:
- Septoplasty – Straightening the deviated septum to open airflow
- Turbinate Reduction – Reducing enlarged turbinates for more space
- Nasal Valve Reconstruction – Strengthening weak valves to prevent collapse
- Cartilage Grafting (Septal, Ear, or Rib) – Supporting airway structures
- Spreader Grafts – Placed between septum and upper lateral cartilage to widen the airway angle
- Combined Functional + Aesthetic Rhinoplasty – Addressing airflow while refining nose shape
Recovery & Aftercare
- Downtime: 7–10 days, with swelling gradually improving
- Nasal packing or splints: May be required for the first week
- Return to work: 1–2 weeks depending on complexity
- Breathing improvement: Usually noticeable within 2–3 weeks
- Full healing: 2–6 months for complete stability of widened airway
- Aftercare: Saline rinses, regular follow-up visits, and avoiding nasal trauma
Results & Longevity
- Long-term improvement in breathing and nasal function
- Noticeable reduction in snoring and sleep apnea symptoms
- Stable structural support through grafts or reinforcement techniques
- Results typically last a lifetime if performed by experienced Korean surgeons
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Diagnostics – 3D CT scans, airflow analysis, and nasal endoscopy
- Surgical Planning – Custom plan based on whether obstruction is due to septum, valves, or turbinates
- Surgery (2–3 hours) – General anesthesia; widening techniques applied with precision
- Initial Recovery (1–2 weeks) – Swelling, stuffiness, and mild bruising managed with care
- Follow-Up Care – Splint or packing removed after 5–7 days; airflow checked
- Final Healing (3–6 months) – Stable, widened airway with natural nasal appearance
Cost Range in Korea
The price of widened airway surgery depends on surgical complexity and whether cosmetic rhinoplasty is included:
- Basic Airway Widening (Septoplasty or Turbinate Reduction):
₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,600 – $4,500 USD) - Widened Airway + Valve or Spreader Graft Reconstruction:
₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 KRW ($4,500 – $6,800 USD) - Comprehensive Functional + Aesthetic Rhinoplasty:
₩9,000,000 – ₩14,000,000 KRW ($6,800 – $10,500 USD)
Popular Clinics in Korea for Widened Airway Surgery
- Seoul National University Hospital – Renowned ENT and plastic surgery collaboration
- Asan Medical Center – Specializes in complex airway reconstruction cases
- ID Hospital – Known for functional + aesthetic rhinoplasty combination
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Focuses on long-term stability with advanced grafting
- JW Plastic Surgery – International reputation for functional airway surgeries
