What is Septoplasty? 

A septoplasty is a surgical procedure used to relieve nasal blockages. A doctor may propose this procedure to repair a deviated septum, long-term sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other nasal airway obstructions. Surgeons sometimes suggest septoplasty as a way to address recurring nosebleeds.

Septoplasty is a simple, low-risk operation. Recovery often takes a few days and requires an average of one week of downtime. However, there are hazards associated with septoplasty, just like with any surgery: bleeding, infection, and numbness.

Overview of Septoplasty Treatment 

Septoplasty surgery involves reshaping a deviated nasal septum, which is the cartilage and bone that splits the inside of your nose into two nasal passages. 

The nasal septum is positioned to one side of the nose when it is deviated. While some people are born with it, most cases of this are the result of trauma of some type. 

A crooked septum may restrict or block airflow in one nasal tube, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, regular nosebleeds, facial pain, and migraines. Additionally, it may increase your risk of sinus infections. 

This surgical treatment straightens the septum, allowing for easier breathing through the nasal airway. Many people with septal deviation prefer to alleviate their symptoms using decongestants and nasal steroid sprays. 

This kind of sinus surgery is frequently advised if symptoms continue and start to interfere with a person's everyday life.

Symptoms of Deviated Septum  

Here are some of the common symptoms of deviated septum: 

  • Nasal Congestion: Individuals with a deviated septum often experience difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils. The deviation may obstruct the normal airflow, leading to a sensation of nasal congestion.
  • Nosebleeds: The altered airflow patterns and dryness within the nasal passages lead to nosebleeds and it will expose certain areas to increased irritation or injury.
  • Facial Pain or Headaches: The obstruction in the nasal passages may contribute to facial pain or headaches.
  • Recurrent Sinus Infections: Reduced airflow can impede proper drainage of the sinuses, potentially leading to recurrent sinus infections.
  • Loud Breathing or Snoring: A deviated septum can cause turbulent airflow during breathing, resulting in loud breathing or snoring. 
  • Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty breathing during sleep can disrupt the sleep cycle and lead to restless nights.

Causes of Deviated Septum  

  • Congenital Condition: Some people are born with a deviated septum, which may be a result of genetics or fetal development.
  • Trauma or Injury: A common cause of a deviated septum is a traumatic injury to the nose, such as a sports injury, fall, or car accident.
  • Aging: The nasal septum can naturally weaken and bend with age, leading to deviation. Structural changes in the bones and cartilage over time can contribute to the development of a deviated septum.
  • Genetics: A family history of deviated septum may increase an individual's predisposition to the condition. Genetic factors can influence the development and structure of the nasal septum.
  • Environmental Factors: Prolonged exposure to environmental irritants or pollutants may contribute to the development of a deviated septum.

Surgical Treatment of  Septoplasty Surgery 

A doctor and nurse will discuss the specifics with the patient before the surgery and they will ask that the patient undergo some common diagnostic tests, such as an X-ray, blood test, or electrical heart trace. They will also ask about general well-being, allergies, and current medications.

It is common practice to do septoplasty under general anesthesia. The patient will usually be asked to stop taking any oral blood thinners for at least one week before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. 

The surgeon wants to straighten the misaligned cartilage and bone of the septum during a septoplasty treatment. First, the mucosa covering the cartilage and bone is lifted. After that, the surgeon forms the cartilage and bone, sometimes removing portions of it.

Following this, the liner will be replaced. If enlarged turbinates are producing a blockage, the surgeon may attempt to decrease them using radiofrequency reduction. In certain additional situations, the turbinate will be partially removed by the surgeon.

Risk of Septoplasty Surgery 

  • Bleeding: Little bleeding is normal after nasal surgery, and most patients can handle it effectively. However severe bleeding could happen in rare circumstances. Sometimes, the surgeon might have to end the treatment to save the patient from suffering more harm. 
  • Infection: Following a septoplasty, there is a chance of infection since the nose is not sterile.
  • Toxic shock syndrome: It is an uncommon and life-threatening infection that must be treated immediately.
  • Tooth and nose numbness: Some nerves that supply the gums, front teeth, and upper jaw pass through the nose. The possibility of damage to these nerves and persistent numbness is increased with septoplasty. After a few months, the numbness normally goes away.
  • Septal perforation: During or after surgery, a tiny hole may occasionally form in the nasal septum, particularly in cases of postoperative infection. A person may need additional surgery if the perforation causes bleeding or other problems of a similar nature.
  • Spinal fluid leak: Although exceedingly rare, a brain injury from a septoplasty could result in a leak of the fluid that supplies nutrition to the brain and spinal cord, increasing the risk of infection. 
  • Other: Rarely, persons may develop prolonged facial pain, changes in voice, visual abnormalities, bruising and swelling around the eyes, or a change in their senses of taste or smell. 

What can you expect after septoplasty surgery? 

Based on the severity of the issue, a septoplasty might take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to perform. Depending on what you and your doctor determine is best for you, you will be given local or general anesthetic.

To gain access to the septum, the surgeon typically creates an incision on one side of the nose. They then lift the mucous membrane, which serves as the septum's protective covering. After that, the crooked septum is positioned correctly. All obstacles, like excess cartilage or bone, are eliminated. The last step is to realign the mucous membrane.

You may require stitches to keep the septum and membrane in place. However, just filling the nose with cotton can occasionally keep them in place.

Why choose Cutis Hospital for Septoplasty surgery?

Cutis Hospital is a renowned hospital offering top-notch septoplasty surgery treatment. Here are some of the reasons why you should go to Cutis Hospital to get the best septoplasty surgery:

Top Healthcare Professionals: Our skilled team comprises experienced surgeons and specialists, ensuring expert care and personalized attention with us throughout your septoplasty surgery process.

Post-Operative Support: Beyond surgical intervention, our commitment extends to comprehensive post-operative support. Our healthcare professionals guide you through recovery, ensuring optimal healing and long-term success. 

Individualized Treatment Plans: Recognizing each patient's unique needs, we provide best-in-class, personalized treatment services. Our septoplasty surgery treatment is tailored to address specific problems, ensuring the best outcomes.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Cutis Hospital is equipped with modern and advanced facilities, including cutting-edge technology for diagnosing nasal-related problems and surgical procedures.

Discover lasting relief with the best-in-class septoplasty treatment from Cutis Hospital. 

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    FAQ's

    To reduce the likelihood of bleeding and edema, your surgeon might tell you to take some precautions for a few weeks. The following may not all be necessary for you to undertake, depending on the scope of your surgery:

    • Rest your head up when sleeping on your back.
    • For a few weeks at least, refrain from blowing your nose.
    • Put on front-fastening clothing. It is not appropriate to pull sweaters or shirts over your head.
    • Avoid vigorous exercises like jogging and aerobics, as well as heavy lifting, for a maximum of six weeks. This reduces the likelihood of a nosebleed.
    • To reduce discomfort, your surgeon may recommend medication.

    Pros

    • It is a relatively rapid outpatient procedure (30 to 90 minutes). 
    • A favorable outcome can significantly boost your well-being. 
    • By reducing the airflow blockage, you will be able to breathe better, sleep more deeply, and experience fewer headaches or sinus problems. 
    • There is really little recovery time after this reconstructive procedure—about a week of swelling and a congested nose. 
    • After surgery, the majority of patients say they can smell things better. 

    Cons

    • It will take you five to 10 days to recover before you can resume your regular activities.  
    • Risks include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related side effects, while major complications are uncommon. 
    • Rarely, patients claim to have less sense of smell. 

    You should consult with a facial plastic surgeon, a plastic surgeon with expertise in nasal surgery, or a board-certified ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. The majority of insurance policies support septoplasty because they deem it medically necessary. 

    However, Dr. Cain points out that “insurance policies vary in the amount of co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses that you might still be accountable for.”

    Doctors recommend requesting a referral from your primary care physician and verifying with your insurance provider to determine which surgeons or practices are covered by your plan.

    Despite being an outpatient treatment, septoplasty recovery can still be difficult. After surgery, take early action to relieve discomfort and swelling by following your doctor’s instructions.

    • Stay well hydrated.
    • Steer clear of hot or spicy meals since it might irritate and create swelling in your nose.
    • To prevent constipation after anesthesia, have a nutritious, high-fiber diet (straining can cause nose hemorrhage).
    • When necessary, wear glasses or else you also wear contact lenses.

    While recovering from a septoplasty, if you encounter any of the following, contact your healthcare physician or get emergency medical attention:

    • Constant bleeding from the nose
    • Increasing redness, swelling, or pain in the nose
    • High fever and chills.
    • A pus-like nasal discharge.
    • Nausea or vomiting.
    • Severe coughing, chest discomfort, or breathing issues

    You should anticipate mild to severe discomfort after a septoplasty. Many describe the discomfort and pressure around the eyes, over the forehead, across the cheeks, and the upper teeth as being similar to a sinus infection. These are common side effects that go away in a few days.

    No. Septoplasty itself does not alter the shape of your nose. However, your surgeon might be able to perform septoplasty with rhinoplasty if you would like to modify the form of your nose in addition to having your deviated septum corrected. To learn more, consult your healthcare practitioner about your treatment choices.

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