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Could Your Breathing Problem Be from a Saddle Nose Deformity?

A woman with long brown hair smiles with arms crossed, standing in front of a glass building entrance. She is wearing a white shirt and a blue-and-white striped shirt.

Saddle nose deformity is an often-overlooked condition that can have significant implications on an individual’s quality of life. It is characterized by a depression along the bridge of the nose, leading to a flat or sunken appearance. While primarily recognized for its aesthetic impact, many patients may not realize that a saddle nose deformity can also contribute to breathing difficulties.

Dr. Maurice Khosh, a pioneer in Saddle Nose Deformity Correction and Repair, delves into the particulars of saddle nose deformity, explores its potential effects on respiration and discusses treatment options.

What is Saddle Nose Deformity?

Saddle nose deformity occurs when the cartilaginous structures of the nose become weakened or damaged, resulting in a loss of support along the nasal bridge. This can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Trauma or Injury: A physical impact to the nose can compromise its structure.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (also known as Wegener’s granulomatosis), can lead to the destruction of nasal tissues.
  • Previous Surgical Procedures: Attempted corrections or surgeries on the nasal structure can inadvertently lead to deformities.
  • Use of Drugs: Intranasal drug use, particularly cocaine, can deteriorate the nasal cartilage over time.

These factors can lead to a recognizable distortion of the nose, but one of the subtler effects is the potential for compromised breathing.

Could Your Breathing Problem Be from a Saddle Nose Deformity?

The answer is yes. According to Otolaryngologic clinics of North America vol. 58,2 (2025), “Saddle nose can cause nasal obstruction by narrowing the nasal cavities, eliciting dynamic internal and external nasal valve narrowing, and abnormally widening the internal and external nasal valves altering airflow dynamics, sinonasal passageways and olfaction.”

A saddle nose can obstruct airflow through the nasal passages, leading to several breathing problems. Here’s how:

  1. Nasal Passage Obstruction: The depression along the bridge of the nose may not just be a cosmetic issue; it can lead to changes in airflow dynamics, making it difficult for air to pass freely through the nasal passages.
  2. Altered Nasal Function: The nose plays a crucial role in humidifying, filtering and warming the air we breathe. A saddle nose deformity can ultimately disrupt these functions, leading to insufficient airflow and increasing the likelihood of upper respiratory issues.
  3. Increased Mouth Breathing: Individuals with a saddle nose may resort to mouth breathing as a compensatory mechanism. This not only affects the quality of air being inhaled but also has broader implications on oral health, sleep quality and overall well-being.

If you suspect that your breathing problems may be connected to a saddle nose deformity, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment.

How Dr. Khosh Can Help

Dr. Maurice Khosh is a renowned expert in the field of nasal reconstruction, particularly for saddle nose deformities. Here are some reasons why Dr. Khosh should be your go-to specialist:

  • Expertise: Dr. Khosh has dedicated his career to correcting and repairing complex nasal deformities. His extensive experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of both the aesthetic and functional aspects of nasal surgery.
  • Innovative Techniques: Utilizing cutting-edge technology, Dr. Khosh offers a range of surgical options tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether through reconstructive techniques or the use of graft materials, he can restore both form and function to the nose.
  • Personalized Approach: Each patient is treated as an individual, with careful consideration given to their specific conditions and needs. Dr. Khosh prioritizes thorough consultation and open communication to ensure patients are well-informed about their options.
  • Proven Results: Dr. Khosh’s commitment to excellence has yielded numerous successful outcomes, enabling patients to regain not only their breathing ability but also their confidence.

Dr. Khosh has extensive expertise in rhinoplasty and nose reconstruction, with a special skill in repairing saddle nose deformities. He will advise on the most suitable options to restore the nose’s shape for aesthetic reasons and perform surgical reconstruction to eliminate obstructions and enhance breathing.

FAQs About Saddle Nose and Breathing Problems

What symptoms indicate I may have a saddle nose deformity?

Common symptoms include nasal deformity, difficulty breathing through the nose, increased congestion and frequent sinus infections.

How is a saddle nose deformity diagnosed?

A comprehensive evaluation by a nasal specialist includes a detailed history, physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to assess the nasal structures.

What kind of treatment options are available?

Treatment typically involves surgical reconstruction to support or replace damaged structures. This may include cartilage grafting or other advanced techniques to restore nasal appearance and functionality.

Is saddle nose surgery painful?

As with any surgical procedure, discomfort may be expected; however, Dr. Khosh utilizes advanced pain management techniques to minimize discomfort during recovery.

What is the recovery like after saddle nose correction surgery?

Recovery varies from individual to individual, but patients can generally expect some swelling and bruising. Most people return to normal activities within one to two weeks, while complete healing may take several months.

New York Saddle Nose Treatment Options

If you are struggling with breathing problems and suspect they may be connected to a saddle nose deformity, it’s crucial to seek out the expertise of a qualified specialist like Dr. Maurice Khosh. With his innovative techniques, personalized care and commitment to patient well-being, you can trust him to help you breathe easier and reclaim your confidence.

Don’t let a saddle nose deformity hinder your quality of life; schedule a consultation with Dr. Khosh today. Your journey to better breathing starts here.

What Dr. Khosh's Patients Say

4.9

Based on 55 reviews

Meredith G.
Saw Dr. Khosh for a fractured nose. He reset my nose beautifully (and with little discomfort to me) and then discussed some of my sinus issues with me upon my follow up visit. Never felt like he was rushing me out and felt very confident in his abilities. I would highly recommend to anyone needing plastic or reconstructive options!
Jackie C.
Great front office, really good experience after what was a terrible accident. I was made to feel comfortable. Dr. Khosh is very good at what he does. I'm still healing but I'm confident of the results
Kaitlin M.
Dr. Khosh takes exceptional care of his patients. He has operated on me twice, each time making me feel extremely comfortable and satisfied with the results. His staff is also very kind and knowledgeable.
Diana G.
Dr. Khosh & his staff Susan & Christine are absolutely amazing! They were so supportive & helpful from beginning to end & they are just wonderful people. Thank you guys I truly appreciate everything you guys have done for me. I would recommend them to anyone & everyone!
Joann M.
After visiting and being evaluated by several doctors, I kept going back to Dr. Khosh. His tranquil spirit and professionalism were captivating. Thank you for a job well done and keeping me calm throughout the entire process. A special thanks to your staff Susan and Christine for all of their support as well. Hi highly recommend Dr. Khosh.
Leah G.
Upon hearing of the overwhelmingly positive experience a friend of mine had in choosing Dr. Khosh as her surgeon, I decided to make an appointment for my own septoplasty/rhinoplasty/turbinate reduction. Although I was slightly skeptical as the praise I had heard seemed a bit hyperbolic, all uncertainty dissipated after meeting the Doctor and his staff. My pre- and post-operative experience was excellent in terms of concerns adequately addressed prior to the surgery and mitigation of any bruising in the convalescent period. Despite my apparent predisposition to rather slower healing, a year after the surgery, my nose looks really pretty and my breathing entirely unobstructed! I highly recommend Dr. Khosh!
Courtney G.
AMAZING!!!!!! I had Dr Khosh perform lipo on my chin/neck and my result is unbelievable! Better than I could have expected! I met with a couple of surgeons and the second I met with Dr Khosh I knew he was the one I was going with. He was compassionate and explained every detail of what would take place during the surgery and what to expect during recovery. I even emailed a few times during recovery with various questions and he got right back to me asap which was really comforting! I honestly fully recommend Dr Khosh, he did an amazing job and is an amazing person.
Frieda S.
i can finally breathe!! Dr. Khosh made the entire experience a breeze, it was truly a pleasure to be under his care. I am forever thankful and highly recommend him. Not only does his work speak for himself, but he has excellent bedside manner. His kindness and patience is above and beyond. He takes the time to answer to every question you have to help you understand the process while at the same time making you feel so comfortable. From the first consultation i knew i was in good hands. I am so pleased with the result and forever thankful.
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Saddle Nose Repair
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Nasal & Sinus Surgery

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