Our sinuses produce between 1 to 2 liters of mucous a day. In most people, that mucous then trickles through the back of your nose and into your throat. These secretions are swallowed without ever knowing. Therefore, “postnasal drip” is a normal physiological process. Some patients may have increased drainage or abnormal drainage stemming from multiple factors.
Conditions that could make your postnasal drip symptoms and breathing worse include allergies, nasal polyps, sinusitis, abnormal sinus anatomy, abnormal nasal anatomy (inside and outside), enlarged turbinates, and a deviated septum. Many patients have more than one of these conditions, which need to be treated using medical, surgical, or combined approaches. In some cases, individuals with abnormal nasal anatomy may consider nose reshaping rhinoplasty to address structural issues that may contribute to breathing difficulties or persistent sinus problems.
If you’re dealing with significant nasal obstruction, rhinoplasty surgery might be a solution, particularly if there is a deviated septum that impairs airflow. I personally recommend nasal irrigations (Neil Med Rinse or a generic brand) to many of my nasal obstruction patients. It is important to determine exactly what causes your symptoms and then address those issues, whether through conservative treatments or surgical options like nose reshaping rhinoplasty.
Farhad Ardeshirpour, MD,
Dual-Board Certified
Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
