Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

Question

A long time ago I injured my nose and since then I’ve noticed some changes in my nose. It used to point downwards and now it points up. I have a mild deviated septum (a doctor told me while shoving a camera in my throat). I have chronic sinus infections. And I have move my nose. I can push my septum around. I’ve seen my nose straight and crooked. I can grab my septum and shift it around left to right. It kinda hurts so I don’t do it very much.

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

The septal cartilage sits on top of bone, the maxillary crest. Sometimes it can get displaced from trauma. It makes sense that you can move it. It is not a surgical necessity to fix it, however if there are functional breathing issues than fixing it makes sense.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

There can be slight movement, but if you are able to significantly shift the septum, or there is pain associated with the movement, I recommend you see a specialist. Particularly in light of your history and symptoms, it is a good idea to have a doctor examine you. I encourage you to schedule a consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has been through ENT training as well as plastics. This specialist can assess the reason for the movement and create a treatment plan should you decide to make corrections to the nose.

Samuel Lin, MD, FACS · Answer

Sometimes with or without trauma the cartilage of the septum or nose may change and become more 'moveable' in time.. occasionally the mobility of the septum can even cause a clicking noise that can be caused by moving the cartilage.. if the area is of concern I would ask your rhinoplasty surgeon what can be possibly done about the area..

Ali Gurlek, MD · Answer

The upper portion of the structure of the nose is bone, and the lower portion is cartilage. Rhinoplasty can change bone, cartilage, skin or all three. Talk with your surgeon about whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for you and what it can achieve.

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

While the septum can be moved around a bit just by pushing, I am concerned when you discuss the pain associated with the movement.  Due to your history of nose injury and your symptoms, I recommend you see a specialist to determine if correction would be of benefit to you, as well as timing of any intervention.

Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

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Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

Answer: Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

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Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

Answers (5)

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

Answer: Should I be able to shift my septum side to side?

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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.