[Equipment] Mask fit - Does symmetry matter.

[Rcgop]

I am new to the FFM F30 and getting things adjusted. I am very close but still have some minor adjustments to make. After each adjustment, I would check for symmetry and found one strap might be longer than the other. As a result, the mask might leak more on that side. I am sure I want to get the mask square on my face. I also realize that people are not made perfectly symmetrical. I am thinking they are close enough to adjust the mask the same on both sides. 

Does anyone else consider the symmetry of the straps in the adjustment process?

[Gideon]

I note it and consider it a flag if the lengths are not close.

[Grandpapa-G]

For the Resmed P30i mask the symmetry is crucial. I find this mask the most comfortable of all the masks I have trialed - all have been nasal pillow masks - but it can be a beast to control the leaks. For good results both arms must be equal to within about 1mm. The good news is that once a sweet spot is found no further fiddling is needed and the fit appears stable over a range of pressure even after prolonged use and frequent washing.

[Benzi]

On the other hand, it might matter how you sleep - on your back or on your side. I'm a side sleeper (unfortunately), so often after adjusting the straps so there are no leaks, I then turn over on my left side and find that even a slight pressure from the pillow pushing against my mask can cause it to leak air. So I then tighten (slightly) the left strap to stop the leak.
Sometimes helps, sometimes I need to tighten the other strap as well.

[Benzi]

Forget to say that my mask too is a p30i

[SarcasticDave94]

I think it needs to reasonably close on both sides. I need to start marking my headgear straps. Another aspect is masks like my Vitera and Simplus, these are more forgiving due to a bellows roll that's on the cushion.

[SevereApnea]

Yep, mostly symmetrical but sometimes after adjustments during the night I see they are not symmetrical. Depends on sleep position during the night.

I have long since marked up my straps as a good reference point esp. after the occasional wash. 

Don't know why they don't make 'em that way.


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[DaveL]

I read an article in the wiki that made me strive to adjust how I fit my masks. I'll go find a link:
http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php/Mask_Primer


scroll down until you see this:

How to achieve the perfect mask fit - GUARANTEED! by Jeffy1958

Whenever I've noticed straps aren't set with symmetry, I adjust them so that they are symmetrical. Typically I may have adjusted my straps at night because of leakage.

So I need to correct the length so they are symmetrical.

Hope this helps. It helped me.

[Bobaloo]

I read an article in the wiki that made me strive to adjust how I fit my masks. I'll go find a link:
http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php/Mask_Primer


scroll down until you see this:

How to achieve the perfect mask fit - GUARANTEED! by Jeffy1958

Thanks for this link. Excellent overall Mask_Primer Wiki. Many thanks to Jeffy1958 for his How-to article for optimal adjustment of mask straps.

[multicast]

The F30 is a diva.  Absolute symmetry is indispensable.  Once adjusted it's a comfortable mask, but the way to the right adjustment might be long and winding.