Have a huge hole inside between 2 sides of nostrils. Scared if the little bit left holding bot tip2face breaks. 39, M (Photo)

Question

-18yrs since broken several times boxing/was broke again 10yr ago w pipe -age 20-26 had oxy habit(sometimes snorted w coke once while) -only air up there past 13 years as I am sober but I smoke cigs - cut down to less then half pack/day -seems like hole has got huge and worried that bottom is almost down to skin only holding it on -I have to put light facing up a nostril and clean out inside once a day min because clogs and can't breathe -would insurance cover Philadelphia area HELP please

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears you have a perforation (hole) in your nasal septum.  This can be caused by prior surgery, trauma, and cocaine use, among other things.  It can cause whistling, crusting, nasal congestion, and bleeding.  Repair of septal perforations is highly specialized surgery and should not be attempted by anyone without the proper training and experience.  Make sure you see expert in this type of surgery.  With great bias, I would recommend a facial plastic surgeon.  Good luck.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you have a septal perforation, and it likely came about with one of your fractures during which you likely had a septal hematoma.  If it's very large, then it usually does not make a whistling noise (the small ones can make noise during breathing).  You can see a specialist for possible repair if it bothers you.

Michael J. Yaremchuk, MD (license resigned) · Answer

This is a known problem from cocaine use unfortunately.  Yes this should be covered under insurance and you should go see a reconstructive surgeon in your area for this.

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question. It sound like you have a septal perforation. This can happen after surgery, but is more commonly seen in people who have a  habit of snorting drugs. Basically a septal perforation is a hole through your septum from one side of the nose to the other. It may be covered by insurance. I would try and find an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon in your area to get their opinion. Best of luck!~Dr. Sieber

Have a huge hole inside between 2 sides of nostrils. Scared if the little bit left holding bot tip2face breaks. 39, M (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Septal Perforation

Answer: Septal Perforation

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Have a huge hole inside between 2 sides of nostrils. Scared if the little bit left holding bot tip2face breaks. 39, M (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Septal Perforation

Answer: Septal Perforation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.