I've been told I have an S-shaped deviated septum, is this serious?

Question

I have had light trauma to my nose in my teen years, but always had perfect breathing as a kid. Now it's really hard to breathe out of my nose. Usually only the right side. But my doctors said I don't need surgery because my septum is S shped and I have the same amount of room to breathe on both sides. What can I do, help, my right side is always blocked?! And if its truly S shaped (according to 3 ENTS then why can I breathe thru my left nostril clearly but not my right nostril? Surgery?

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears you have had very thorough examinations of your septum and nose.  An S-shaped septal deviation anatomically narrows the internal nasal valve on one side while the other side remains patent.  If you do have an S-shaped septal deviation your complaint is very normal.  The internal nasal valve is an anatomical area within the nose which is bordered by the septum, the sidewall of the nose, and the inferior turbinate (can only be seen with an examination of the inside of the nose).  A thorough examination will elucidate the cause of your obstruction.  If you have an S-shaped deviation the angle between the septum and the sidewall of the nose on the right side is likely narrowed and obstructing your breathing on that side.  A septal deviation at the internal nasal valve can be corrected by a septoplasty.  The septoplasty should has to be performed in such a manner that the exact area of deflection is adequately addressed.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Evaluation of the septum, the external nasal valves, the internal nasal 
valves, the turbinates, inspection for masses, etc.  are all part of the
 exam.  Sometimes an anatomic source cannot be identified.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Anand G. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello.  An "S" shaped septum refers to a septum that deflects to the left as well as the right (hence the "S" shape).  If the S septum is causing nasal airway obstruction and breathing difficulty, it may be corrected for via a septoplasty operation (procedure to straighten the septum).  I hope this is helpful.  Regards, Anand G. Shah, MD

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

No, but if the deviated septum obstructs your breathing having it fixed can make your breathing much better!

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

There are C shape and S shaped septal deviations.  Each is a normal septal cartilage shape and does not make the surgery any more extensive when trying to improve the nasal airway.

I've been told I have an S-shaped deviated septum, is this serious?

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I've been told I have an S-shaped deviated septum, is this serious?

Answers (5)

Answer: S-Shaped deviated septum #nosejob

Answer: S-Shaped deviated septum #nosejob

Answer: Septal deviation and nasal airway obstruction

Answer: Septal deviation and nasal airway obstruction

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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