Could breathe right strips cause saddle nose? (photo)

Question

I noticed recently that there is a dip in my nose, exactly where I put a breathe right strip every night to help me breathe. This seems to be getting worse and effect my breathing. It also seems to have narrowed the area, as well as slightly turn up the tip. Here is a picture from a few months ago and a current pic. I am wondering what could have caused this issue. I have not been hit in the face or had any other major lifestyle changes.

Jeffrey Jumaily, MD · Answer

They are not known to cause this issue but it is possible. If you use them everyday you may have some nasal valve issues that can be addressed via certain procedures so you don’t to wear them anymore. If this is something that you want to discuss, we are happy to consult with you. Best wishes

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

If used normally, breathe right strips should not affect the underlying septum/cartilage. Saddle nose is caused by damage or dislocation of the underlying cartilage structures. It is best to have an in-office history and physical examination to determine the cause of the changes to your nose and the best surgical technique to resolve the issue. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD Plastic Surgery@drjohnsonlee

William Portuese, MD · Answer

No, breathe right strips cannot cause a saddle nose deformity, they only are applied to the skin. A saddle nose deformity is created from a collapsed nasal septum.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear jmh335, A saddle nose deformity is caused from a collapsed nasal septum and breathe right strips will not cause a collapse. I would suggest that you consider having your septum fixed and then you will not have the need to wear the strips. This is a simple procedure that I perform weekly in my practice in order to provide patients with a more functional nose. If you have aesthetic issues you would like addressed then this can be performed at the same time. Seek consultation with some experts in the field and after an intranasal examination a proper diagnosis can be obtained. See examples in the link and video below. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Could breathe right strips cause saddle nose? (photo)

Answers (4)