Can rubbing/pushing on your nose cause a deviated septum?

Question

For a few years I struggled with body dysmorphia. I was 16 and had no money to fix my nose. So I read online that you could flatten your nose bump with fingers. So I constantly rubbed/massaged my nos bridgee a little, nothing painful. 6 months ago I noticed I couldn't breathe thru my right nostril and today i still cant! :( Could i have deviated my septum by pressing on my nose bridge? or changed my nose cosmetics? if so (if its deviated to the right, can I push it back to the left?)

Amy K Hsu, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear popoppy20:Thank you for sharing your question.  Pressing on your nose will not change the shape of the septum or the outside appearance of your nose.  In addition to a deviated septum, there are many other causes of difficulty breathing through your nose. If you are having breathing problems, please see a physician to help you evaluate the cause and determine the best treatment options.  Best wishes,Amy K Hsu

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

Simply pushing on your nose is not enough force to create septal deviation.  Breaking or fracturing your nose would be necessary to create such a change.  If you have a deviated septum, it was likely present before the nasal manipulation.

Can rubbing/pushing on your nose cause a deviated septum?

Answers (2)