Does your nose look like it's sunken in? Let's talk about this Saddle Nose!

Have you ever noticed that the top of some people's nose, that is, the part where the bridge of the nose is, is a little sunken in and looks like a hole? It's like a saddle on a horse's back. This is why we call this condition "Saddle Nose" in medical terms. This is not just a matter of appearance, but it can also sometimes cause breathing difficulties. So today we will talk about everything very simply, as if we were talking to a friend.

Simply put, what is Saddle Nose?

Saddle Nose is a condition where the bridge of your nose, the high part in the middle of your nose, collapses, causing the nose to lose its height. It gets its name because the nose looks like a horseshoe. Some people also call it "boxer's nose," because boxers are more likely to get this condition because they get punched in the nose so often.

The important thing is that this not only changes the appearance of your nose. It can also cause breathing difficulties because it damages the internal structures of the nose. This can interfere with daily life. If left untreated, this condition can worsen over time.

How do I know if I have Saddle Nose?

The main and most obvious symptom of this condition is the sinking and sinking of the bridge in the middle of the canal. For some people, this change becomes noticeable gradually, over time. However, for others, especially after a serious accident to the canal, this condition can occur almost suddenly.

In addition to this main symptom, there may be several other symptoms. Let's see what they are.

Why does this happen? What are the causes of Saddle Nose?

Simply put, the main part that gives shape and strength to your nose is the cartilage wall that separates the two nostrils, called the nasal septum. Anything that damages this part can lead to a saddle nose. This is what acts as a support for the nose. When this support weakens, the bridge above it sags.

There are several main reasons for this.

Other complications that may occur due to Saddle Nose

In addition to changing the shape of the nose, this can also cause other problems related to the breathing process.

• Chronic sinus issues.
• Increased snoring.
• Obstructive sleep apnea.
• Hearing a whistling sound when breathing through the nose.

How does a doctor recognize this?

When you go to see a doctor, the first thing he does is examine your nose carefully. He looks at things like the shape of your nose and how much it has sunken in. Then he asks you questions.

• "How did this start?"
• "Has there been any accidents on the river before?"
• "Are you having trouble breathing?"
• "Are there any other illnesses?"

This information will help him get a better idea of ​​the condition. Sometimes, he may even take a few photos of your nose to note the severity of the condition and compare after treatment.

Three stages of Saddle Nose

Doctors divide this condition into three main stages based on its severity, that is, the amount of support the nose has lost.

What are the treatments for this?

The good news is that there are effective treatments for this condition. The treatment method depends on the severity of your condition and your needs.

1. Surgery - Rhinoplasty

The main and most commonly used treatment for this is surgery. We call this surgery Rhinoplasty. This is not just a "nose job" to make you look better. This involves rebuilding the collapsed structure of the nose.

The surgeon uses a piece of cartilage taken from another part of your body. Most often, it is cartilage from your ear or a piece of cartilage from a rib. This piece of cartilage is used to raise the bridge of your nose that has sunken, giving it the strength and shape it needs. After this surgery, the appearance of your nose is restored, and breathing difficulties are almost completely eliminated.

2. Non-surgical Treatments - Dermal Fillers

This is a temporary solution for those who do not want to undergo surgery and whose saddle nose condition is not too severe. What is done here is to inject a special substance (Dermal Filler) into the sunken area of ​​the nose, filling and lifting the hollow area.

But the results are temporary . It wears off after about 6 months. So to maintain this look, you have to get these injections again and again.

How long does it take to recover after treatment?

After rhinoplasty surgery, you will usually start to feel much better within four to six weeks. However, it can take up to a year for the nose to fully heal, the swelling to go down, and the final shape to be achieved. This recovery time varies from person to person.

Dermal filler treatment does not require a long recovery period. You can usually return to normal within a day or two.

Can this situation be prevented? How can the risk be reduced?

Sometimes this condition is difficult to prevent. For example, it can happen due to an unexpected accident. Some people may be born with this condition.

However, there are several things we can do to reduce the risk of this:

• If you have an accident to your nose: If you have a hard blow to your nose, don't assume it will "just heal on its own," but see a doctor immediately and get the necessary treatment immediately.
• When playing sports: If you play contact sports like boxing or rugby, be sure to wear a nose guard.
• Treating diseases: If you have diseases related to the body's immune system, get them treated properly.
• Avoid drugs: Avoid snorting drugs like cocaine completely. This is very harmful to your nose as well as your entire body.
• Safe sex: Practice safe sex practices to protect yourself from diseases like syphilis.

When should I see a doctor?

As soon as you start to notice a change in the shape of your nose, a drooping or a hollowing out, see a doctor without delay. It is best to see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon if possible.

Remember, the earlier you start treating this, the more successful and better the results will be.