I was recommended turbinate reduction and septoplasty to improve breathing. I think I have internal nasal valve collapse (Photo)

Question

Some surgeons say spreader grafts improve breathing and some don’t? I believe internal nasal valve collapse is my issue but… Both surgeons I’ve seen recommend a turbinate reduction and septoplasty even though my obstructed side is visibly collapsed inward compared to my good breathing side. My CT scan revealed a midline septum. I took nose trauma which caused my left side to collapse inward now I can’t breathe well from that side. My gut tells me internal nasal valve repair will fix me..

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Of the three things you mention,
Septoplasty, turbinate reduction and spreader grafts, I have found that turbinate reduction is the most effective. I rarely do a septoplasty I and have never done suresder grafts.  Turbinate reduction is most effective and simplest

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. I specialize in this problem, and the first thing I will say is that it is impossible to tell you what to do without examining the inside of your nose. The primary factors that determine your nasal function are the shape of the nasal septum, size of the turbinates, and the nasal valves (collapsibility). CT scans can be misleading because if a septal deviation is very anterior (the cartilaginous portion), it doesn't always display well on CT (and consequently, the radiologist will report a 'straight' septum). The external appearance of your nose suggests a nasal valve issue at least on the left side. Spreader grafts are just one way of improving the valve, but not the only way--and there is not a 'one size fits all' approach to internal valve repair. Unfortunately, I have seen many patients who have had septoplasty/turbinoplasty with unsatisfying results because the nasal valves were not addressed. Moreover, it puts you in a worse position because the cartilage that is removed from the septum in that situation has gone to waste rather than using it to reconstruct and strengthen the nasal valves. Feel free to setup a consultation with me at The Spiegel Center to discuss further. Good luck!
Best,Dr. Tower

I was recommended turbinate reduction and septoplasty to improve breathing. I think I have internal nasal valve collapse (Photo)

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