Breathing problems and nose dimples after primary septorhinoplasty - nasal valve issues? (Photo)

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs and description, there is likely external and internal valve collapse in addition to a deviated septum. This can be addressed with Re-tensioning the tip, alar batten grafts, spreader grafts, septoplasty, and other maneuvers during a revision. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Thank you for your question. Breathing function with or without prior surgery can involve aspects of the nose on the inside and outside. It will be important to have your rhinoplasty surgeon examine the inside of the nose for any potential cause of obstruction as well as the outside 'visible' portion of the nose as well to determine a plan..

If there is nasal obstruction and creases in the area of the tip that get worse with breathing in, this can be indicative of external nasal valve narrowing. It sounds like you might benefit from a consultation from a rhinoplasty specialist who is comfortable dealing with functional nasal issues. Thank you for your question and I wish you well moving forward. Sincerely, Dr Joseph