Is a spreader graft the only feasible surgical way to fix internal nasal valve collapse? (photos)

Question

Is using a spreader graft really the only feasible surgical way to fix static internal nasal valve stenosis/collapse caused by weakened upper lateral cartilage? My right side is narrowed and this has been suggested but I do not want my nose to widen cosmetically / be asymmetrical if used only on one side but I think this may be the only option to correct my breathing. Have never had a nose surgery before but broke nose years ago.

Donald Groves, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and the picture. Addressing breathing issues is actually one of the most common reasons people seek out and undergo a rhinoplasty. An open rhinoplasty can best address both the functional issues and any potential aesthetic concerns with your nose. I would be able to open up and reinforce your internal and external nasal valves (with multiple grafts on both sides, including spreader grafts)- this truly is the best way to improve the airflow through your nose! When created and placed properly, they do not widen the nose. Unfortunately, most surgeons just aren't able to do them properly and they end up creating wider noses.

This truly a surgery of millimeters- and whether you're looking for a minor adjustment or a major transformation, it requires exceptional surgical skill to achieve functional and natural-looking results! Because your nose is the DEFINING feature of your face- I would only recommend seeing a surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty procedures, and who has significant training and experience performing these surgeries. I actually trained under one of the world leading rhinoplasty experts (who performs 1,000+ nosejobs annually).

I recommend for you to setup a formal consultation with me (or another plastic surgeon who is extremely comfortable with rhinoplasties) to thoroughly discuss your surgical goals, undergo a formal examination, evaluate your options, and develop a personalized plan just for you. I hope this helps!

Dr. Donald Groves
Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Nasal obstruction after rhinoplasty surgery can be due to internal nasal valve obstruction, external nasal valve obstruction, a deviated nasal septum, or turbinate enlargement. An examination is necessary to determine the cause. Generally speaking, we do use spread or grafts to open the internal nasal valve when it is narrowed. Wishing you well. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Jeffrey Lisiecki, MD · Answer

No, there are many parts to the internal nasal valve that can be addressed to improve nasal breathing.  In person evaluation would determine best which components of the internal nasal valve (if any) are obstructing your airway, and from that a plan can be curated to fix your breathing.  Spreader grafts were developed for revision rhinoplasty, and are often unnecessary in primary rhinoplasty, even in the setting of prior trauma.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If you never had surgery don’t assume that the problem is nasal valve collapse. It is more likely septal deviation of turbinate hypertrophy which are much simpler to correct

Is a spreader graft the only feasible surgical way to fix internal nasal valve collapse? (photos)

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Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Is a spreader graft the only feasible surgical way to fix internal nasal valve collapse? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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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.