Septoplasty: How Does It Correct a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum is a condition in which the nasal septum, the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity in two, is significantly off-center or crooked, making breathing difficult. Most people have some kind of imbalance in the size of their airways. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of people have some degree of misalignment of the nasal septum, most of them without knowing it. Only more severe imbalances cause significant breathing problems and require treatment.

What Is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is surgery performed for people seeking a solution to breathing problems. It corrects deformities of the septum inside the nose, whether present from birth or acquired later. This problem makes breathing difficult and can lead to health problems. Septoplasty opens the nasal passage and allows normal breathing. By correcting the crooked nasal wall, the procedure also improves the person's quality of life. Beneficial in terms of both appearance and health, this surgery offers patients significant advantages.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of a Deviated Septum?

In some people, a deviated septum (a crooked nasal septum) is present from birth. In other cases, it can be caused by injury or trauma. Nasal congestion is among the most common symptoms; a crooked nose or deviated nasal septum may be the cause of problems such as difficulty breathing. Recurrent sinus infections can also be a sign of a deviated septum.

Symptoms:

• Nosebleeds
• Facial pain
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Loud breathing and snoring during sleep
• Blockage of one or both nostrils
• Noisy breathing during sleep
• Being able to sleep more comfortably on one particular side

A deviated nasal septum is found in most patients with sleep apnea.

A deviated nasal septum is found in most patients with sleep apnea.

How Is a Deviated Septum Diagnosed?

After listening to the patient's medical history and complaints, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can diagnose a deviated septum by examining the inside of the nose. Some of the questions you may generally be asked during the examination are:

• Do you have difficulty breathing?
• Do you have trouble sleeping, or do you snore often?
• How often do you get sinus infections?
• How long have you had these symptoms?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• Have you had any injury or trauma to your nose?
• Do you have a history of nosebleeds?
• Are you taking, or have you taken, any medication for these symptoms?
• Has your sense of smell decreased?

The physical examination may involve some equipment to see inside your nostrils. Your doctor may use a light to see inside your nose and possibly an illuminated, tube-shaped scope to see deeper into your nostrils. A nasal speculum gently opens the nasal passages so that your doctor can take a better look. They may look at how your septum appears before and after applying a decongestant spray.

After your examination, your doctor or ENT specialist will be able to determine whether you have a deviated septum and what your next steps should be.

Preparing for Septoplasty Surgery

Preparation for septoplasty begins with an evaluation of the patient's health and nasal structure. The preoperative evaluation reviews the patient's general health, allergies and medications in detail, which is important for ensuring the safety of the surgery. The septoplasty consultation allows the surgeon to meet the patient face to face and examine the nose. During this process, it is important for the patient to express their expectations and concerns about the surgery. Preoperative instructions cover what the patient should follow before and after the surgery.

Before septoplasty, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination and take photographs of your nose from various angles. During septoplasty, the surgeon works through the inside of the nose, makes a small incision in the septum and removes the excess bone or cartilage needed to even out the breathing space of the nostrils. Internal splints or soft packing material may be placed in the nose to stabilize the septum while it heals. Depending on the work done, septoplasty usually takes one to one and a half hours. You should be able to go home 3 to 4 hours after surgery, although patients sometimes stay in the hospital overnight. If septoplasty is the only procedure performed, there should be very little swelling or bruising after surgery.

Recovery After Septoplasty Surgery

After septoplasty, the septoplasty recovery process is very important, and patients should pay close attention to their doctor's recommendations. Recovery varies depending on the patient's characteristics and the extent of the surgery. Recommendations after septoplasty include rinsing the nose with saline, avoiding excessive activity and sleeping with your head elevated in bed. These measures increase your comfort and speed up recovery. You are also advised to stay away from smoking and similar harmful substances and to drink plenty of water.

If you notice anything abnormal or unexpected during the recovery period, see a doctor immediately. Symptoms such as bleeding, severe pain or difficulty breathing may indicate serious problems. Attending your scheduled follow-up appointments helps prevent possible problems.