Do I have a deviated septum? (Photo)

Question

There's a bit of difficulty when breathing from my left nostril but it alternates. I prefer to sleep on my right side if that means anything.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The photographs you have provided do not show whether or not you have a deviated septum.  However, it is not uncommon for people to have trouble breathing from alternate sides.  You would benefit from a rhinoplasty as you have a dorsal hump, the nose is over projecting and the nasal columella angle is less than 90 degrees.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for submitting your photographs.

The front view image suggests that the nasal bridge deviates slightly in one direction and then shifts to the other, with the tip appearing relatively aligned with the facial midline. Since the image might be mirrored, it is unclear which side corresponds to the right or left in your case.

To better understand the characteristics of the nasal bridge, you could take a photograph:
	•	Slightly from below: This angle shows the alignment and curvature of the bridge more clearly.
	•	Slightly from above: This perspective can further demonstrate the direction of the nasal bridge.

To address these features, a septorhinoplasty is generally required. This procedure corrects both:
	•	Breathing issues related to the nasal airway.
	•	Cosmetic concerns by reshaping and aligning the nasal bridge and tip.

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Yes you have deviated septum. Septoplasty surgery is aimed at correcting a deviated septum to improve breathing. It does not significantly alter the external appearance of the nose. If you are looking to improve your breathrather than the look, septoplasty is a great option for you. Good luck

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Alternating nasal obstruction is usually caused by enlarged turbinates but a deviated septum could also be involved. In internal nasal evaluation will determine what is causing the obstruction

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Somebody's nasal breathing fluctuates from side to side, it's usually from alterations of the size of the nasal turbinates. Turbinates are organs in the nose that filter and humidify the air. In that regard, a trial of over the counter Flonase or Astepro maybe indicated. Since you sleep on your right side, you may indeed have a septal deviation to the right. An examination would be necessary to determine this. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Do I have a deviated septum? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Alternating nasal obstruction tends to be a turbinate issue.

Answer: Alternating nasal obstruction tends to be a turbinate issue.

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.

Do I have a deviated septum? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Alternating nasal obstruction tends to be a turbinate issue.

Answer: Alternating nasal obstruction tends to be a turbinate issue.

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.