Can a Septoplasty Alone Correct Nasal Valve Collapse and Appearance? (photo)

Part of the nasal valve is composed by the nasal septum. If it is severely deviated to one side and narrowing the valve, a septoplasty can help open that area of the valve. However, in most people with nasal valve collapse, the issue is a lack of structure that requires some sort of cartilage graft which is usually spreader graft, alar batten or nostril rim graft. I can't say exactly what would help without examining your nose and looking at the dynamic changes that occur with breathing. I hope this information is helpful.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Lone Tree Facial Plastic Surgeon

    If there is both internal and external valve collapse, cartilage grafts would be useful in addition to the septoplasty for the deviation.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Airway obstruction created by collapse the nasal valve will not be corrected by septoplasty. A septoplasty however may serve as a source of cartilage that is used to fix the nasal valve.

Good questions. Ultimately you need to be seen by a rhinoplasty surgeon who can break it down for you. Internal valve collapse is entirely a different issue than a deviated septum. Sometimes they can occur together. Fixing a deviated septum does not by itself fix the internal valve collapse. For that you need to either use spreader grafts or use turn down flaps from the upper lateral cartilage. if your nostril rims are weak than alar grafts are indicated, thus a third distinct problem with it's own solution.

Septoplasty alone is not going to correct all of your nasal problems adequately. You ideally need an open septorhinoplasty using cartilage grafts to support the middle vaults, columella and caudal end of the septum.