Are my breathing problems because of my nose shape or deviated septum?

Question

I currently have bad breathing problems through my nose and also a snoring problem, i was wondering if this could be because of a deviated septum, and my nose shape.

Sam Rizk, MD · Answer

The outward appearance or shape of the nose does
not generally affect breathing. However, the internal nasal anatomy–such as a
deviated, or crooked, septum–can definitely obstruct normal breathing and
contribute to snoring. A rhinoplasty is a cosmetic nose surgery that can change the appearance
of the nose, but will not correct functional issues such as difficulty
with breathing or snoring unless there is a collapse of certain areas in the nose but it will be called functional rhinoplasty and it involves adding cartilage grafts to collapsed areas. However, a septoplasty, sometimes called a functional rhinoplasty,
can address a deviated septum and open up the nasal passages so that air to
passes through both nostrils equally. If you have concerns about the shape of
the nose, you may want to consider a rhinoseptoplasty, a procedure that
combines both the cosmetic and functional nose surgeries. You should consult
with a specialist who can determine what the underlying issue is and whether
nose surgery is appropriate for you.

Jeremy Hunt, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

The internal nose is where people will most likely run into issues with breathing difficulties, and it made up of the septum, the turbinates and the sinuses.Either of these can alone or in combination cause problems, and is one reason people may seek a rhinoplasty.If the septum is deviated, the leading edge can cause the bridge and tip of the nose to deviate or be bent, and correction of this can be done at the same time as improving the septum further back and fixing the breathing issue, this we call a rhinoseptoplasty.In short each patients procedure needs to be tailored to achieve the result they desire, it may involve a rhinoplasty, septoplasty, turbinate surgery and sinus surgery - but the overall result must meet the patients needs and expectations.Snoring can though be more related to the palate( roof of mouth) and is less likely to be fixed by rhinoplastyAll the bestJeremy Hunt

Amy K Hsu, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear emilytd95~Thank you for your question.  A deviated septum or crooked nose could definitely be the cause of difficulty breathing through your nose.  There are also many other internal features of the nose that affect your breathing such as the turbinates and nasal valves.The snoring is caused by turbulent airflow and is related to a blockage that inhibits smooth flow of air while you are breathing.  It could be caused by a problem with your nose, but it could also be related to an obstruction elsewhere, such as your tongue or palate.An evaluation with a rhinoplasty or ENT specialist will help you answer these questions.Best wishes,Amy Hsu

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Your nasal breathing problems are likely related to some deviation in your septum, collapse in the middle portion of your nasal cartilage or enlargement of structures called inferior turbinates. An in-person examination is required for a more specific answer. With regard to snoring, this can result from obstruction at multiple levels of the airway and isn't necessarily related to any nasal issues. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Are my breathing problems because of my nose shape or deviated septum?

Answers (4)

More Septoplasty Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (4)

More Septoplasty Questions

Can I use my finger to move my septum back into the middle of my nose so I can breath easier? (photo)

I was elbowed in the nose and now feel like I have something hard stuck in my nose. Should I be worried?

Don't want surgery, can I fix my nose myself?

Can "stuffiness" after minor nasal trauma be fixed?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS