AirFit F20 Full Face Mask Bypass Ports?

I am a new user of ResMed's AirFit F20 full face mask. Actually, I'm a newbie to CPAP, period.

Why has ResMed intentionally placed mask air leaks around the connection fitting where the hose lands on the mask? I suspect these intentional leaks allow you to breathe (albeit with with some effort) when the air pump turns off.

The problem with the placement of these leaks is that they whistle air under your eyes at high pressure settings. The noise of the leaks wakes me up. The moving air from them dries my eyes out.

Can anyone recommend a different full face mask that has the bypass ports placed elsewhere?

By the way, I find that the newer foam ring version of this mask doesn't seal as well as the older all-silicone version. I think the foam ring version absorbs skin oils, whereas the all-silicone one can be wiped dry of oils.

Thanks for the feedback.

Jim/Indianapolis US

The circle around the elbow hides the holes that exhaust the C02 from your breath. There is a valve inside the elbow that will open if the air flow is shut off.