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getting grooves in my face from full face mask
I don't want to sound vain, but I am disturbed by the very noticeable grooves in my cheeks as a result of the pressure from the full face mask all night. When I first wake up and look in the mirror, it's a ghastly sight. As the day progresses the appearance improves, but I imagine that as I keep using this mask day after day, week after week, month after month, etc. that they will become permanent grooves. Already I notice a difference in the way my face looks. Not only is it unattractive, it really changes my looks. I look like a different person. What recourse do I have?
Also, I'm not waking up refreshed. The respiratory therapist who fitted the mask assured me I would feel refreshed. Before that, I was using just a nasal mask. Since my mouth was opening, I used a chin strap. That did not solve the problem, however.
I would appreciate some input on this subject. Thanks!
Views: 1933
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Judy on
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The simple answer is that you are tightening your mask too tight. The harder question is how do we solve the problem?
Lets start w/which full face mask you are using??
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Permalink Reply by Mary Z on
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I found the FItLife Total Face Mask by Respironics (not the one size fits all) to solve my probems with grooves on the face and swollen, puffy eyes every morning. Perhaps you are having leaks and tightening your mask too much to compensate for the leaks. The mask should not be leaving grooves on your face.
As Judy asked, what mask are you using?
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Permalink Reply by Darillyn Patterson on
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Well, I've tried to start off with it less tight because I realize it's the pressure of the "rim" which is causing the grooves. It starts off being okay because the beginning pressure is just 6.0, but when it ramps up I get leaks. It's very bothersome. So, what recourse do I have to stop the leaks except to tighten it enough to stop it?
Judy said:
The simple answer is that you are tightening your mask too tight. The harder question is how do we solve the problem?
Lets start w/which full face mask you are using??
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I'm using ResMed Quattro FX, medium size.
That's the size I was given initially. After having issues with it, a different RT measured me and said I should have been given a small size. Since there hasn't been enough time lapsed for the insurance to cover a replacement, I'm stuck with this one.
I try to tighten the mask as little as possible. The word "indentation" might be more appropriate to use rather than saying "groove". Since I am nearly 60, perhaps my skin isn't as resilient as the skin of a younger person.
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Permalink Reply by Ginny Edmundson on
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See if a smaller headgear (size small) helps. It solved my problem of leaks and having to have on too tight. From your photo it looks like you have a tiny face like me! The size small head gear does no come with mask. Must be ordered by itself. They retail $31. And I was able to find a small mask (all the pieces) on Ebay that was new in the package. They get around Ebays rules by saying part of it is a free gift for you. If less than 30 days has gone by since you received your current mask your DME should let you exchange for small one, too. Good luck. I also use Pad a cheek liners which cuts down on facial lines.
Darillyn Patterson said:
I'm using ResMed Quattro FX, medium size.
That's the size I was given initially. After having issues with it, a different RT measured me and said I should have been given a small size. Since there hasn't been enough time lapsed for the insurance to cover a replacement, I'm stuck with this one.
I try to tighten the mask as little as possible. The word "indentation" might be more appropriate to use rather than saying "groove". Since I am nearly 60, perhaps my skin isn't as resilient as the skin of a younger person.
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How long have you had this Quattro FX Medium??? You should be able to exchange it for a Small if you have had it less than 30 days. Resmed will replace that Quattro FX FREE to your DME provider if they will fill out a form and return mask and form W/IN 30 DAYS.
I am using the Quattro FX Small. As Ginny said, the Small headgear does not come w/the Small and has to be special ordered.
In the meantime, have you read the fitting instructions that came w/your Quattro? Fitting the Quattro FX is somewhat different than fitting other full face masks due to the flimsiness of the thin outer cushion cover. AND, unlike most other masks you get a better fit if you fit it W/O your CPAP being turned on and turning it on AFTER you have it fitted to your face. I've found that donning my mask, then turning my BPAP on and then lifting the top straps in the back on my head a little bit "seats" my Quattro FX nicely. Once in a while I may have to push the Quattro FX against my face and then let go and let it fill w/air is all it takes to get rid of any remaining mild leaks. Occasionally running my fingertip GENTLY along the seam line between mask and face gets rid of small leaks as well. But it HAS to be done gently as the flimsy outer cushion cover will "pleat" if I'm too energetic in doing so.
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That is how I am putting mine on too, Judy.
Judy said:
How long have you had this Quattro FX Medium??? You should be able to exchange it for a Small if you have had it less than 30 days. Resmed will replace that Quattro FX FREE to your DME provider if they will fill out a form and return mask and form W/IN 30 DAYS.
I am using the Quattro FX Small. As Ginny said, the Small headgear does not come w/the Small and has to be special ordered.
In the meantime, have you read the fitting instructions that came w/your Quattro? Fitting the Quattro FX is somewhat different than fitting other full face masks due to the flimsiness of the thin outer cushion cover. AND, unlike most other masks you get a better fit if you fit it W/O your CPAP being turned on and turning it on AFTER you have it fitted to your face. I've found that donning my mask, then turning my BPAP on and then lifting the top straps in the back on my head a little bit "seats" my Quattro FX nicely. Once in a while I may have to push the Quattro FX against my face and then let go and let it fill w/air is all it takes to get rid of any remaining mild leaks. Occasionally running my fingertip GENTLY along the seam line between mask and face gets rid of small leaks as well. But it HAS to be done gently as the flimsy outer cushion cover will "pleat" if I'm too energetic in doing so.
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I'd better check as to when I can get the smaller one. Thanks.
Ginny Edmundson said:
See if a smaller headgear (size small) helps. It solved my problem of leaks and having to have on too tight. From your photo it looks like you have a tiny face like me! The size small head gear does no come with mask. Must be ordered by itself. They retail $31. And I was able to find a small mask (all the pieces) on Ebay that was new in the package. They get around Ebays rules by saying part of it is a free gift for you. If less than 30 days has gone by since you received your current mask your DME should let you exchange for small one, too. Good luck. I also use Pad a cheek liners which cuts down on facial lines.
Darillyn Patterson said:
I'm using ResMed Quattro FX, medium size.
That's the size I was given initially. After having issues with it, a different RT measured me and said I should have been given a small size. Since there hasn't been enough time lapsed for the insurance to cover a replacement, I'm stuck with this one.
I try to tighten the mask as little as possible. The word "indentation" might be more appropriate to use rather than saying "groove". Since I am nearly 60, perhaps my skin isn't as resilient as the skin of a younger person.
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