Spreader grafts & internal nasal valve collapse after minor bump to the face?

If you spray a topical decongestant in your nose on the side that is obstructed, that would mimic the effects of a turbinate reduction. Since that would not change the appearance of your nose, and would be minimal inconvenience and downtime, a trial with a topical decongestant for several days may be helpful. Wishing you well moving forward! Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

If you just had internal nasal work, such as a turbinate reduction procedure, you are likely to have a fair amount of improvement in your breathing. I usually say you might get like a good maybe 50-60% improvement from that alone. That might be enough for you. However, we also usually say if you want the "maximum" improvement, that would involve treating your nasal valves as well. Spreader grafts can widen your nose but you could either ask for thinner spreaders and/or recessed spreaders, which will make less of an impact on the width of the nose. At worst, you could always do the turbinates first and then only if it's not enough improvement go for the other as they won't impact each other.

The turbinate can be reduced easily in one setting. If that does not solve your problem then you have an internal nasal valve collapse on one side and that will be repaired by a cartilage graft. The turbinate will not cosmetically change the nose but the cartilage graft may.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.