How do I know if I have a deviated septum? (Photo)

Question

I have been told I have a deviated septum. I had my septum pierced for a while and the piercer told me that I had one. I am trying to figure out if I have one and how bad it is?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear katepalughiThe important issue is can you breath well through your nose. If the answer is yes, then your septal deviation would have no significance. The way one determines septal deviation is by looking into the nose. Consultation with a properly trained rhinoplasty surgeon can help you learn more about your nasal septum.

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

The best way to get this answer would be to go for a consultation with a plastic surgeon who specializes in Noses. They will answer your question and give you pricing. Best of luck.

Tanuj Nakra, MD, FACS · Answer

You certainly have a left sided deviation in the front of your nose, that might translate to a posterior deviation inside the nose.  If you do not have any symptoms, then I would do nothing about it.  It is very common for people to have minor deviations.  They are typically repaired only if there is a breathing problem that is related to the deviation, or during cosmetic rhinoplasty to optimize breathing after surgery.  Wishing you the best!

Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, FACS · Answer

A deviated septum can be diagnosed by physical examination.  A CT scan can also help to evaluate the septum and other internal nasal structures.

Anand G. Shah, MD · Answer

The septum is an internal nasal structure (the wall that internally separates the two nostrils).  Diagnosis is made by physical examination.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A deviated septum can only be diagnosed by a nasal surgeon who examines the complete internal portion of the nose at the time of consultation. Symptoms include blockage of airflow, facial headaches congestion and decreased sense of smell

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Hello,Most people have some degree of deviated septum.  The nasal septum is the cartilage that separates the nostrils internally.  Having a deviated septum is only an issue if it impacts breathing, the shape or appearance of the nose, or there is clicking or air noise when breathing caused by the deviated septum.  Repair of deviated septum can be covered by insurance.  Several ways to do so are available but selecting a good rhinoplasty surgeon will be the best way to go about it.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

The nasal septum is an internal structure in the nose that separates the left and right nasal cavity. There are several reasons why it can be deviated including trauma(broken nose) or something that you were born with. Because it within the nose, it needs to be examined in the office with instruments that allow examination of the inside of the nose. Symptoms of a deviated septum typically include persistent nasal congestion/blockage on one or both sides. I recommend scheduling an evaluation to determine if there is a deviation present and also to learn more about how to get it fixed.

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

The septum is the cartilage that divides both sides of your nose in the inside of your nose.  Patients with deviated septums can have symptoms of difficulty breathing through one side of your nose or both sides of the nose.  A formal nasal examination would be needed to properly diagnose a deviated septum.  This being said, what is often overlooked, are the other components of the nose which can cause obstructed breathing.  It appears from one of the photos submitted that your left nostril is more narrow than your right side.  This can be partly due to a deviated septum as well as the cartilages that make up your nasal tip.  These cartilages can also re-curve in to the nose and further exacerbate nostrils narrowing.  It is best to have yourself formally examined by a doctor who specializes in the nose and nasal breathing problems.

How do I know if I have a deviated septum? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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