The present invention provides a respiratory interface device including a mask having an upper, mask upper portion, a lower, mask lower portion, a flexible connecting member, and a patient contacting cushion. The flexible connecting member extends between, and is coupled to both, the mask upper portion and the mask lower portion. The flexible connecting member permits the mask upper portion and the mask lower portion to flex relative to one another. The patient contacting cushion is coupled to, and extends about, the mask upper portion, the mask lower portion, and the flexible connecting member. A brace assembly having a body with at least one mask coupling is provided. The brace is coupled to the mask upper portion and to the mask lower portion. The brace limits the outward rotation of the mask upper portion relative to the mask lower portion.
