This term refers to a twist or deformity of the central partition in the nose. It is a common condition and can cause nasal blockage. The cause is usually not known although can result from an injury to the nose.

Nasal valve collapse or lateral nasal wall collapse refers to a loss of support for the tissues of the roof and side wall of the nose causing a collapse of the side wall when the patient breaths in through the nose.

This can result from previous surgery or injury, can occur with advancing age or can be present with no obvious cause. It is normal to have a mild degree of movement of the side wall of the nose when breathing in through the nose.

If it is thought that nasal valve collapse is a significant factor in causing the patient’s nasal obstruction then this can potentially be corrected surgically using cartilage grafts.