Can previously fixed deviated septums become deviated again? Is it worth another trip to my local ENT specialist? (Photo)

Question

I had a deviated septum surgically and nasal polyps removed 5 yrs ago Lately I've noticed that I cant easily breath through my noseWhen I do breathe through my nose I feel as if I can't get enough air. Itsworse when I am sick I've been told that I breathe extremely heavily when I sleep and also snore. Some people also comment that I sound as if I'm gasping for air, and that I sound like a seal when sleeping. My right nostril feels more obstructed than the left and it's also painful at the hole

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question and images. Yes, it is possible that a deviated septum may recur after correction. Depending on the technique used to straighten the septum it is possible that if the cartilage was scored then it may bend again over time. Given that you also had polyps it is possible that these have also grown back since your previous surgery. There are a number of possibilities that would be worthwhile having reviewed. Best of luck.RegardsDr Guy Watts

David J. Goodkind, MD · Answer

yes, I think you should return to your original surgeon or see another one, you should be much more asymptomatic than you describe

Jawed Tahery, FRCS · Answer

Hi,the most likely scenario would be recurrence of your polyposis specially if you haven't used any tooical steriod sprey! ( people with asthma and aspirin allergy more prone to recurrence !)i advise to revisit your ENT surgeon.BWJawed TaheryConsultant ENT/Facial Plastic SurgeonChester,UK

Harry V. Wright, MD · Answer

It is worth following-up with your ENT doctor for an exam -- nasal polyps can return after being surgically excised. That is likelier than a re-deviation of your septum.Harry V. Wright MD

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos.  There are a number of physical reasons to have nasal obstruction and the septum is only one.  The others include:-large turbinates-narrow internal nasal valves-weak cartilages prone to collapse on breathing inYour breathing difficulty definitely warrants an examination.  Often a combination of the above issues are present and it is often beneficial to address all of them at the same time.  Any nose shaping that is desired can be done at the same time as well.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Can previously fixed deviated septums become deviated again? Is it worth another trip to my local ENT specialist? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Recurrent congestion after polyp surgery

Answer: Recurrent congestion after polyp surgery

Answer: Breathing well and nose surgery

Answer: Breathing well and nose surgery

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Can previously fixed deviated septums become deviated again? Is it worth another trip to my local ENT specialist? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Recurrent congestion after polyp surgery

Answer: Recurrent congestion after polyp surgery

Answer: Breathing well and nose surgery

Answer: Breathing well and nose surgery

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.