The objective of this surgery is to straighten the bone and cartilage. The bone and cartilage divide the area between the two nostrils. This cartilaginous wall is called the septum. When the septum is crooked, it is called a deviated septum. It can make it hard for you to breathe through your nose. It could also increase the risk of sinus infections due to poor drainage.
During a septoplasty surgery, your nasal septum is readjusted to the middle of your nose. It may require your surgeon to cut out the deviated part of your nasal septum before reinserting it in the correct position.
Once the wound has healed, you’ll likely find it easier to breathe.
Why do you need a Septoplasty?
Having a deviated septum is quite a common occurrence and does not require any treatment as long as it does not cause any discomfort. However, when it is severe, it can cause a blockage on one side of the nose and reduce airflow. It would cause breathing difficulty from either one or both sides of the nose.
Hence, when the septum is removed, straightened and positioned back, it helps open and improve the airflow through the nose.
What are the risks associated with a septoplasty?
Like with any surgery, septoplasty also carries risks such as local infection, bleeding and the possibility of a reaction to the anaesthetic. Some other complications include:
· A change in the shape of your nose
· A tiny hole in the septum
· A decrease in the sense of smell
· Temporary numbness in the teeth, upper gum or nose
However, it is critical to note that these are very rare and minimized by thorough pre-operative planning and investigations.
During the procedure
The procedure involves trimming, repositioning and replacing the cartilage or bone to straighten the deviation. An incision is made inside the nose, and at times, a small incision is made between the nostrils. It is done to ensure no marks or scars are visible. From here, the septum is straightened and replaced, allowing for a more open airway.
General anaesthesia is used during the surgery, so the patient does not feel any pain. When the patient wakes up, the surgery is over. A bandage-like packing may be placed in the nose to prevent post-operative bleeding.
Post-Operative Management
After the surgery, the patient is usually allowed to go home the same day itself. However, if your doctor feels you need to be kept under observation for another day, you would be allowed to go home the next day.
The patient needs to rest for a couple of days and can resume routine work after about two days. However, strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, jogging, etc. are not allowed for one month as they may cause nosebleeds. Forceful or heavy nose blowing should be avoided as it could cause a nosebleed.
A month after the surgery, the nasal tissues would have completely healed. The patient would be allowed to continue all normal activities as before.