saddle nose, low nose bridge: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Low nasal bridge; Saddle nose

What is a low bridge?

Saddle nose deformity is a condition, in which there is an abnormal change in the shape and structure of the back of the nose. Instead of a straight and even line, the back of the nose takes on a curved shape with a depression in the center, saddle-like. This condition may be congenital or acquired due to trauma or surgery..

Reasons for the development of a low nose bridge

Saddle nose deformity can be caused by the following reasons:

• Congenital developmental anomalies, such as genetic defects or defects in the formation of cartilage or bone in the nose
• Injuries, including fractures, bruises or damage to the cartilage of the nose
• Surgery, such as rhinoplasty or nose reconstruction, which can lead to unexpected changes in the shape of the back of the nose

saddle nose symptoms

Saddle nose deformity may present with the following symptoms::

• Depression or bulge in the central part of the back of the nose
• Curvature or asymmetry of the nose
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Problems with sensation or circulation in the nose
• cosmetic defect

When to see a doctor

If you have signs or symptoms of saddle bridge deformity, it is recommended to consult a doctor. You must seek medical attention, if:

• Your symptoms significantly affect your overall comfort or quality of life
• You are having difficulty breathing through your nose
• You have problems with sensation or circulation in the nose
• Do you want to fix a cosmetic defect?, associated with saddle nose deformity

Questions, which the doctor may ask

During your visit to the doctor, you can ask the following questions, to better understand your condition and treatment plan:

• What is the probability, that my saddle nose deformity is congenital or trauma related?
• What type of diagnostic testing is required to determine the cause of my saddle nose deformity?
• What treatment options are available to correct saddle dorsum deformity??
• What are the expected results and risks in the treatment of saddle nose deformity?
• How long does it take to recover after the procedure?

Diagnosis of saddle nose deformity

To diagnose saddle bridge deformity, your doctor may perform the following procedures and tests::

• Physical examination of the nose and face to assess shape and structure
• Examining the patient's medical history and symptoms
• X-ray examination to obtain images of the nasal region and evaluate the bone structure
• CT scan (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRT) for more detailed images and assessment of cartilage and bone structure

Treatment of saddle nose

Treatment for saddle nose deformity may include:

• Observation and conservative treatment in case of, when symptoms do not cause significant discomfort or functional limitation
• Surgical correction to correct anomalies in the shape and structure of the bridge of the nose. This may include rhinoplasty or nose reconstruction, performed by a qualified plastic surgeon

saddle nose treatment at home

Treatment of saddle nose deformity at home is limited. But, it is important to follow some recommendations to maintain overall health and prevent symptoms from flaring up:

• Avoid injury and traumatic situations, which can impair the shape and structure of the bridge of the nose
• Follow your doctor's instructions for caring for your nasal area after your surgery or procedure.
• If necessary, use nasal breathing aids, such as nasal drops or spray
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, physical activity and adequate rest

Prevention of saddle nose

Since saddle nose deformity can be congenital or caused by trauma, prevention aims to prevent these risk factors. Here are some recommendations:

• Avoid situations, which can lead to nose injury, eg, contact sports or hazardous activities without adequate protection
• Wear a hardhat or other protective equipment if necessary, to prevent injury to the nose
• If there are genetic risk factors or a family history of saddle nose deformity, discuss this with your doctor
• Follow your nasal care professional's advice after your surgery or procedure, to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular physical activity and stress management

Used sources and literature

Farrior EH. Special rhinoplasty techniques. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 32.

Madan-Khetarpal S, Arnold G, Ortiz D.. Genetic disorders and dysmorphic conditions. In: Kids BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis’ Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 1.

Slavotinek AM. Dysmorphology. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Bloom NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 128.