Respiratory mask having a vertically adjustable spacer element that limits seal deformation on a wearer's face

In a respiration system adapted for administering breathing gas to a user, the combination comprising:

• a mask body having an adjustment strap attached to and extending substantially vertically from an upper portion of said mask body;
• a flexible sealing member joined to said mask body and adapted to be placed in confronting contact with a portion of the face of user to form a seal therewith;
• and
• means for limiting deformation of said sealing member when said sealing member is in contact with a user's face, said means for limiting deformation including means for an element cooperating with said adjustment strap and connected for vertical adjustment along said adjustment strap, said means for limiting deformation of sealing member with respect to a user's face not requiring disengagement of said means for limiting deformation and said adjustment strap.