The effects of an external nasal dilator and nasal dimensions in Asians

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: We examined the potential correlation between the effectiveness of an external nasal dilator for Asians and nasal dimensions. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGS: The length, width, and height of the subjects' nose were measured. From these parameters, a nasal index (nasal width/nasal length) and a basal view index (columella height/nasal width) were calculated. Nasal airway resistances with and without an external nasal dilator were measured. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation between both nasal index and basal view index and the changes in nasal resistance that resulted from wearing an external nasal dilator, whereas no significant correlation was detected between each of the 3 nasal dimensions and changes in nasal resistance. CONCLUSIONS: Noses with a smaller nasal index or a larger basal view index receive greater benefits from the wearing of an external nasal dilator. The effects of external nasal dilators are influenced by nasal shape rather than by individual nasal dimensions in Asians. Copyright © 2002 by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, Inc.