What is a Septoplasty?

Century ENT offers septoplasty, a surgical technique designed to correct a deviated nasal septum. This condition refers to a displacement of the bone and cartilage separating your nostrils. During a septoplasty, the nasal septum is reoriented and realigned to its central position in your nose. This procedure is primarily undertaken to enhance the nasal airway’s obstruction, commonly caused by a septal deviation.

A septal deviation may result from facial or nasal trauma or may naturally occur.

Deviated septum symptoms often manifest as nasal obstruction, congestion, snoring, or breathing difficulties during rest or activity.

Century ENT advises surgery only for patients who do not respond to medical treatment. Septoplasty might be conducted alongside sinus surgery. This procedure is aimed at restoring nasal function without altering the external nose shape, though it can also be combined with a cosmetic procedure if desired.

When Surgery Is Required

The operation is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea or other medical conditions may require overnight observation. The operation is usually performed through the nostrils without any skin incisions.

Risks

Possible risks of this procedure include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, continued or worsening nasal obstruction, septal perforation, nasal collapse, and/or inadequate cosmetic results.

Recovery

Patients resume a normal diet on the same day as surgery. You may require over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Patients experience intermittent swelling for 2-4 weeks after surgery but are not in pain that long.