Introduction
Nasal deformity can create many problems for a person’s appearance and self-esteem. Deformities may alter the nose’s actual contours, making it difficult to be seen as attractive. This will also influence a person’s interaction with others and make it difficult to form healthy relationships. People suffering from nasal deformity should consult a specialist who so as to learn more about suitable alterations that meet their client’s requirements.
What are Nasal Deformities?
Nasal deformities are conditions that affect the shape and functioning of the nose. These typically involve one or both nasal bones, known as the frontal bone, which change the nose’s outer shape. They range from minor bumps and curves to severe deformities that may result in discomfort and breathing difficulties, and an unattractive appearance.
Common Nasal Deformities
Nasal deformities can be present. Several types of these deformities can be classified depending on the cause and severity. Learn more about the most common nasal deformities, which include:
Congenital (Present at Birth) Deformities
Congenital (present at birth) Nasal Deformities result from the poor development of the nasal bone and cartilage of the nose. Congenital deformities can be caused by heredity or certain complications during pregnancy. With genetic counseling, parents should now learn more of the risk of congenital malformations before starting a pregnancy. Common characteristics of congenital nasal deformities include single or multiple bulges on the bridge of the nose, a flat bridge of the nose, and outward rotation from the centerline of the face or nostrils that turn up. A molding helmet therapy may treat these defects for babies under six months old and is commonly used for children with underlying issues such as neuromuscular disease and physical therapy problems that continue well past preschool.
Enlarged Adenoids
Enlarged adenoids are a common nasal abnormality that can hinder breathing. The adenoid tissue near the opening of the nose directly behind your hard palate or roof of your mouth may give off an unpleasant odor due to food particles and bacteria. It can also cause post nasal drip and make it easier for germs and allergens to enter the body. As a result, enlarged adenoids are considered a decongestant problem in the nose. This causes problems with sinus congestion, chronic coughing and snoring, sleep apnea and frequent colds or ear infections.
Enlarged Turbinates
Enlarged turbinates result from a blockage in the nose, not allowing air to pass through and can be associated with stubborn sinusitis and allergies. When this happens, the turbinate enlarges and extends over the nose cavity. The enlargement can be a good thing as it filters out dust and other allergens. Still, it can also prevent airflow, which causes shortness of breath, chronic inflammation of mucous membranes in your nose or lungs and sleeps apnoea or partial stoppage of breathing during sleep.
Deviated Septum
Deviated septum is a joint nasal deformity in which the nasal septum, or wall that separates your nostrils, is not straight. Typically, this wall should have a point at its center so that your nose can breathe adequately. When one of these points becomes damaged due to injury or genetics, it can cause it to move outward and cause problems with your nose’s structure causing many issues with breathing through the nose, including snoring and sleep apnea to chronic sinus infections. A deviated septum can be found in both children and adults. The surgical procedure for correcting a deviated septum varies depending on the deviation. It may involve reshaping your nose with a local anesthetic (a rhinoplasty) or reconstructing your nose and sinuses with general anesthesia.
Saddle Nose
Saddle nose deformity is a peculiar condition that occurs due to the circumferential projection of the nasal tip, presenting with a characteristic wing-like or saddle-shaped contour. The nose bridge (also called the nasal dorsum) is uplifted, and there is an indentation in the middle causes the nasal tip to be angled downwards. Typically the nasal tip should be pointed, and the inferior margin should be slightly higher than the columella to achieve an esthetically pleasing result. The saddle nose can be caused by various factors like trauma to the nose, family history, or genetic factors. It is also associated with trauma, cocaine abuse or certain diseases. The most evident and noticeable symptom is the saddle shape on the nose.
Aging Nose
Aging noses are a common symptom of the aging process and can be caused by sun damage, poor skincare, and even smoking. The aging nose can be a problem for many people, especially those with a strong family history of nasal augmentation. As we age, some changes take place in our facial structures. These constant changes can cause loss of volume and projection to the nose, leading to an unnatural sagging and wrinkling appearance. A larger and longer nose with a drooping tip could also lead to breathing problems and even hearing problems that may increase the risk of injuries in other parts of the body. Rhinoplasty is the operation of repairing this damage by realigning and remodeling the nose, giving it a more natural appearance.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are a common nasal disorder when the nasal mucosa becomes inflamed. An inflamed nasal polyp (commonly called a nasal polyp) is a form of noncancerous growth in the nose that causes nasal congestion, often accompanied by a postnasal drip. Inflamed polyps are red, soft, fleshy, swollen growths that may develop inside the nose or on the lining of its walls. Polyps usually occur in one nostril or both. Though rare, they can be a source of chronic irritation and embarrassment. Common causes include allergies and autoimmune disorders.
Conclusion
Joint nasal deformities are often overlooked, but occasionally a patient will come in who is a candidate for treatment. Most commonly, patients will have suffered an injury to their nose. In most of these cases, things like punches, fractures or dislocations will have occurred to their nose, and a plastic surgeon will have treated them. In other cases, especially those born with them, specific congenital abnormalities may benefit from treatment. This can be something like pinched nostrils or septal deviations (bulges).