Septum deviated worse after surgery (Photo)

Question

i had a septoplasty with turbinoplasty in 2019 with an ENT to correct my breathing. afterwards, i had a nasal valve collapse confirmed by a plastic surgeon, but was told not to do anything at that time. now, i've recently been having trouble breathing again, feeling stuffy, and just noticed my septum is deviated again but WORSE than before. is there any hope with getting this fixed? i'd like to breath normally again.

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

I am sorry for your unsuccessful surgery. Because septal cartilage has a certain "memory" in it, there is always a chance of recurrent deviation. Obviously, experienced surgeons know this and try to release points of attachment and areas of tension so that this chance of recurrence is reduced. 
The internal nasal valve is an area bounded by the septum, lateral wall and head of the inferior turbinate. Each of these structures can cause that "valve" to be compromised. In your case, it looks like your septum deviating to the left is the main culprit. I would recommend getting second opinions from surgeons with a large surgical experience. You should be able to eventually get normal airways!!

Septum deviated worse after surgery (Photo)

Answers (1)