Septoplasty
Septoplasty lets us correct a deviated
septum to improve your breathing.
Overview
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a bent or deviated septum. The septum is the thin wall between your nasal passages. It is a relatively delicate structure and can easily become displaced to one or sometimes both sides. This misalignment can cause breathing difficulties. In some cases, it can affect air flow, leaving us susceptible to chronic sinusitis and other nasal problems. Septoplasty surgery aims to straighten the septum, improving airflow and alleviating associated symptoms.
Benefits
Septoplasty offers several benefits, including:
Improved Breathing: Straightening the septum creates better airflow through the nose
Reduced Snoring: Correcting the deviated septum can help reduce or eliminate snoring
Decreased Sinus Infections: For some, a straight septum can mean less susceptibility to sinus infections
Enhanced Sleep Quality: Improved breathing can lead to better sleep and increased daytime energy
Procedure Details
How Does Septoplasty Work?
Septoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, although some individuals may be candidates for in-office techniques. The steps involved in septoplasty surgery include:
- Anesthesia Administration: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure
- Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision inside the nose to access the septum
- Septum Correction: The deviated septum is corrected through a combination of repositioning and removing the deviated cartilage and bone
- Closure: The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures
- Splint Placement: Small, soft plastic splints are placed in each side of the nose to hold the septum straight. Nothing is placed on the outside of the nose
The entire septoplasty procedure usually takes about 60 minutes.
Septoplasty Before and After
Most patients experience substantial improvement after septoplasty. Before the surgery, patients struggle with breathing difficulties, which may contribute to snoring and increase susceptibility to sinus infections. After recovery from the procedure, many patients wonder why they didn’t have the surgery sooner. Another common realization is how bad their breathing was before their septoplasty.
It's important to note that full results are usually not apparent immediately after surgery, as the healing process takes time.
Recovery & Outlook
Septoplasty Recovery
Recovery from septoplasty surgery typically follows this timeline:
Immediate Post-Op (24-48 hours):
- Expect some swelling and discomfort as well as some mild bleeding
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
- Take either over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication as needed
First Week:
- Avoid strenuous activities and blowing your nose
- Use saline irrigations to keep the nasal passages moist
Weeks 2-3:
- By this time, the small splints placed in your nose to hold the septum straight during surgery have been removed in the office, leading to improved breathing
- Gradual return to normal activities
- Continue to avoid nose-blowing
Weeks 3-6:
- While some mild tenderness may persist in some patients, the healing process of the internal skin lining of the nose has been completed by this point
Complete recovery and final results typically occur within three months after septoplasty surgery.
Long-term Outlook
Most patients experience long-lasting improvements in breathing and overall nasal function following septoplasty; however, it's essential to maintain good nasal health practices and follow your doctor's post-operative instructions for the best long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is septoplasty painful?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for several days following septoplasty, which can be managed either with over-the-counter pain relievers or with prescribed pain medication if necessary.
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How long does septoplasty surgery take?
Septoplasty typically takes about 60 minutes to perform.
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Will septoplasty change the appearance of my nose?
No. If cosmetic changes are desired, a rhinoplasty may be performed with septoplasty.
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How long do I need to take off work after septoplasty?
Most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks, depending on the nature of their job. A modified work schedule is often possible within a few days for those who work at home.
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Are there any risks associated with septoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are some risks, including bleeding, infection, and injury to the septum itself; however, these kinds of complications are rare.
If you're struggling with breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum, septoplasty may be the solution. Consult with an experienced ENT specialist to determine if this procedure is right for you and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Davis
Written by
Breathe Clear Institute Editorial Team
Posted on
June 4, 2024