The nose uses valves to support the nostrils and keep the nasal airways open. When these nasal valves become damaged or weakened, the nasal passages can close or collapse. Injuries, disease and previous nose surgery can result in damaged nasal valves. Dr. Stefan Shuaib at Dallas Facial Plastic Surgery Center can perform nasal valve repair surgery at our center in Irving, TX.

The nasal valves are located at the midpoints in each nasal passage. While the nasal bone and septum are fixed in place, the softer outer nasal walls move in and out as you breathe or flare your nostrils. The nasal valves return the nasal walls to the open position, keeping the airway from being closed. When the nasal valves are damaged, intaking a breath through the nose can collapse the nasal wall and leave it pinched or closed.

Symptoms of Nasal Valve Collapse

Nasal valve weakness or collapse can be caused by a variety of factors. Congenital defects, injuries, rhinoplasty and a deviated septum can all cause nasal valve damage. It can be difficult to know if you have nasal valve damage without a medical diagnosis, as the symptoms are very similar to other nasal issues like a deviated septum. Symptoms include:

• Snoring or noisy breathing while sleeping
• Airway blockages
• Nosebleeds
• Nasal congestion or dripping
• A pinched appearance to the mid-nose
• Difficult or painful nasal breathing

If you are diagnosed with a nasal valve collapse and it is causing health symptoms or cosmetic concerns, nasal valve repair surgery may be recommended.

Opening Collapsed Nasal Valves

Dr. Stefan Shuaib is a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon who specializes in reconstructive and cosmetic nose surgery. If one or both nasal valves is collapsed or damaged, he can perform intricate nasal valve repair to open the nasal passages. Many nasal valve repair procedures require cartilage grafts to strengthen the valves and open the collapsed nasal passages. This can restore normal breathing and nose appearance.

Nasal valve repair surgery can improve your health and relieve breathing symptoms. If you have a nasal valve issue, contact us at Dallas Facial Plastic Surgery Center. We can schedule a consultation to discuss nasal valve repair with Dr. Shuaib at our Irving, TX, facility.