Understanding Septoplasty: What You Need to Know

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition where the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils is off-center or crooked. This can lead to breathing difficulties, nosebleeds, and sinus infections. In this article, we will discuss what septoplasty is, why it is performed, the procedure itself, and what to expect during the recovery process.

What is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that is typically performed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. The goal of the surgery is to straighten the septum and improve airflow through the nasal passages. This can help alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, and chronic sinus infections.

Why is Septoplasty Performed?

Septoplasty is typically recommended for individuals who have a deviated septum that is causing significant breathing problems or other symptoms. Some common reasons why septoplasty may be performed include:

– Chronic nasal congestion

– Difficulty breathing through the nose

– Recurrent sinus infections

– Nosebleeds

– Snoring or sleep apnea

In some cases, septoplasty may also be performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as rhinoplasty (cosmetic nose surgery) or turbinate reduction (surgery to reduce the size of the nasal turbinates).

The Procedure

Septoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, although in some cases it may be done using local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision inside the nose and lift the mucous membrane that covers the septum. They will then carefully reshape or remove the deviated portions of the septum. In some cases, the surgeon may also use cartilage grafts from other parts of the body to help support the septum and prevent it from becoming deviated again in the future.

After the surgery is complete, the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches, and nasal packing may be used to help support the septum as it heals.

Recovery

After septoplasty, most patients can expect to go home the same day as the surgery. It is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion in the days following the procedure. Pain medication and nasal decongestants may be prescribed to help manage these symptoms.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include:

– Keeping your head elevated to reduce swelling

– Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks

– Using a saline nasal spray to keep the nasal passages moist

– Avoiding blowing your nose for at least a week

– Attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress

Most patients are able to return to work and resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks after septoplasty, although full recovery may take several weeks.

In conclusion, septoplasty is a common surgical procedure that can help improve breathing and alleviate symptoms related to a deviated septum. If you are experiencing chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through your nose, or other symptoms related to a deviated septum, talk to your doctor or ENT specialist to see if septoplasty may be right for you. Understanding the procedure and what to expect during the recovery process can help you feel more confident and prepared for surgery.