A Review of the Effects of Expansion of the Nasal Base on Nasal Airflow and Resistance

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to inform the reader of the current literature regarding nasal airflow resistance. The anatomy and physiology of nasal airflow resistance will be examined and the known effects of widening of the nasal airway upon airflow will be described.Materials and MethodsThis article is a review of the current literature regarding nasal airflow and resistance and the effects of widening of the nasal base. No patient data were collected.ResultsThe literature shows that nasal airflow resistance can be changed by surgical manipulation and by rapid palatal expansion, but that the effects on airflow resistance and future growth and development are unpredictable.ConclusionPatients with a maxilla that is constricted in the transverse dimension and nasal airflow problems may benefit from expansion of the nasal base. The resultant effects upon nasal airflow resistance and subsequent growth and development are unpredictable and therefore airflow issues alone may not be a primary reason to increase the transverse dimension of the nasal base.