Any sort of nasal obstruction can have a large effect on any individual’s day to day life, health and overall well being. The issue with constant and chronic nasal obstruction is differentiating between what the specific issues and concerns are in conjunction to their correct diagnosis.
While some may think their problems stem from seasonal or year round allergies, there may be more serious underlying issues that should be explored.
The multiple types of nasal obstruction that could possibly be the cause of improper or difficult breathing are:
- Deviated Nasal Septum
- Hypertrophic Turbinate
- Nasal Fracture
- Nasal Valve Collapse
Deviated Septum, Nasal Septum
A Deviated Septum is characterized by a crooked septal bone, crooked septal cartilage or both. With this, the nasal airways become narrower, ultimately impacting breathing, making air-flow difficult.
A Deviated Septum can be caused by trauma during child birth, early nasal trauma, uterine development or inherited predisposition that causes the bony growth plate to shift. With time, the shape of the deviated septum may worsen, leading to chronic mouth breathing and improper nasal development.
Hypertrophic Turbinate
Nasal Turbinates are considered to be the “housekeepers” of the nose. This is because the moist pink lining of the nasal structure contains millions of cilia working to help clear debris from the air that is entering through the nose. Hypertrophy is characterized by the delicate organs working overtime in attempt to clear our dust, smoke, fumes or allergens. As tissue overgrowth occurs, patients begin to suffer from constant congestion which can result in more serious nasal obstruction, frequent snoring or chronic sinus infections.
Nasal Fracture
Commonly misdiagnosed, a nasal fracture is characterized by direct trauma or injury that results in an immediate nosebleed, further indicating the likelihood of a fracture. This type of injury requires a thorough evaluation beyond the bridge of the nose or noticeable damage. The evaluation process is considered to be complicated as it requires more meticulous attention to possible deep fractures to the septum, nasal cartilage, middle and inferior turbinates and sinuses.
Commonly overlooked nasal fractures include:
- Septal Hematoma
- Partial Nasal Bone Fracture
- Nasal Cartilage Fracture
- Nasal Septum Fracture
- Middle Turbinate Fracture
Nasal Valve Collapse
This condition, also known as “vestibular stenosis” is characterized by the loss of collagen support which helps keep the sidewalls of the nose open while breathing. Nasal Valve Collapse is caused by a decrease in support of the nasal tip, commonly caused by trauma or injury, undetected cartilage fracture, complications from prior reduction rhinoplasty or aging.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Tadros, M.D., F.A.C.S tackles nasal obstruction and trauma with a different approach to diagnosis and treatment. Considering there are multiple delicate structures that help the nose function properly, Dr. Tadros performs a sinus (maxillofacial) CT scan to help determine what exactly has been affected. With careful examination and review of the CT scan image results, Dr. Tadros can see injuries that may have been overlooked or missed. With extensive experience in nasal restoration in conjunction to using the most advanced, minimally invasive reconstructive and cosmetic techniques, Dr. Tadros will help any individual meet their needs. A profound passion for form and function is what sets Dr. Tadros apart from the rest by putting much importance on not only aesthetically looking appealing but ensuring that your particular issue is corrected and will return to proper function.
For more information regarding nasal obstruction and chronic sinus infection treatment in NYC & NJ, please contact Dr. Monica Tadros and her team at the Center For Sinus, Sleep & Facial Plastic Surgery by calling NYC: (201) 408-5430 or NJ: (201) 408-5430 to schedule your no-obligation consultation.
