The nasal valves are the narrow passages that allow air into the nose. Beginning at the nostrils, the nasal valves run through the protruding portion of the nose into the sinus cavity. When a nasal value collapses or is obstructed, it can impact both the appearance and the function of the nose. At LM Medical NYC, we offer nasal valve repair surgery to restore the shape and function of the nose.

Causes of Nasal Valve Collapse

It is abnormal for nasal valves to collapse or become blocked, but it does occur quite commonly. The nasal valves are held open by the delicate structure of the nose. The protruding portion of the nose is mostly cartilage, which can be easily damaged. When the cartilage surrounding the nasal passages becomes weak, it can collapse. Some of the common causes of nasal valve problems include:

• Congenital defects
• Trauma to the nose
• Deviated or perforated septum
• Damage from inhaled/snorted chemicals or drugs
• Previous rhinoplasty

A poor or botched nose job is a common cause of collapsed nasal valves. The nose can appear “pinched” and the airways are due to the nasal valve collapse. This can occur when too much cartilage is removed, or the nose is made too narrow.

Dr. Lesley Rabach, our talented facial plastic surgeon, can perform nasal valve repair surgery to open collapsed nasal passages. If the nasal collapse was caused by a poor nose job, Dr. Lesley can complete rhinoplasty revision to repair nose function and restore the desired shape.

A nasal valve obstruction or collapse can impact your appearance and health. If you have a nasal valve problem, contact us at LM Medical NYC. We can schedule an exam and consultation with world-renowned facial surgeon Dr. Lesley at our clinics in Greenwich Village and the Upper East Side to discuss your nasal valve repair options.