Could I have Silent Sinus Syndrome? (Photo)

Question

I have facial asymmetry that really bothers me. I have horrible sinus pressure and allergy symptoms most of the time. Is there any way to fix this? Does this look characteristic or any disease? I went to an ENT and he said he could not see any asymmetry and made me feel like I am seeing something that isn't there. It is concerning because my dace hasn't always been this way.

Philip Michael, MBBCh, FRACS, FRCS(Ed) · Answer

Silent sinus syndrome refers to sinus disease which typically affects the maxillary sinus (the one under the eyes). The opening for this sinus gets blocked and secretions build up. Also, we think that a negative pressure occurs in the sinus and it contracts in volume. This may mean that the eye lowers and gets deeper. In particular, people do not notice any sinus problems. Hence the term 'silent'. With respect to your specific concerns, asymmetry is present in nearly every individual but I don't see an obvious suggestion of a silent sinus appearance from your photos. However, sinusitis can cause a difference especially if there is associated swelling of the overlying facial tissue. The mainstay of therapy involves nasal steroids with saline nasal rinses also being helpful. As regards the 'silent sinus' side of things, this will be evident on a CT scan and your ENT surgeon would have been able to advise on this if it was present on the scan. Best Wishes

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