Does double jaw surgery affect your nose? I had double jaw surgery 5 years ago, and my nose feels constantly congested. Options?

Question

I had double jaw surgery to correct an underbite. This resulted in making it harder for me to breathe. Above the tip if my nose feels constantly congested. I read somewhere that double jaw surgery damages the nasal septum cartilage. I was also wondering if insurance would cover to fix this issue?

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

A LeFort I osteotomy cuts across the base of the nose which includes the septum. Depending upon what type of maxillary movement was done septal asymmetry and inferior turbinate obstruction can occur. The best way to determine the now altered internal nasal anatomy is with a CT scan. Secondary septal correction and inferior turbinate reductions can relief such nasal airway obstructions.

Jay Calvert, MD, FACS · Answer

When the maxilla (upper jaw) is moved, the septum and often the nostrils are moved to expose the jaw for the bone cut.  The surgeons who do these operations reconstruct the nose, BUT may times the nose does not return to where it needs to be to look the best or function the best it can.  With that said, I have correct many noses after double jaw surgery.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

In our practice for over 25 years, we have seen occasional deviated septum result of double jaw surgery.  This is from movement of the maxilla forward on the upper jaw.  A thorough internal examination of the nose by a double board-certified ENT/facial plastic surgeon can make a determination about how best to proceed, since  there can be multiple issues on the inside of the nose that can cause breathing difficulties.

Adel Fattah, MBBChir, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Bimax (or double jaw surgery) alters the foundation upon which the nose sits. Damage to the septum is a possibility but other issues such as altering the position of the tip which may affect the external and internal nasal valves could also play a role. You need to see a rhinoplasty specialist with experience in airway (or functional) corrections and septoplasty for a formal consultation and ideally a scope to look inside to get the best assessment.

Does double jaw surgery affect your nose? I had double jaw surgery 5 years ago, and my nose feels constantly congested. Options?

Answers (4)

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