What is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty, one of the widely performed nasal surgeries worldwide, is carried out by otolaryngologists. The purpose of septoplasty is to facilitate breathing through the nose. Usually, the patient can go home immediately after the procedure, but complete recovery may take several months.
Septoplasty is a minor surgery performed to treat deviations in the septum. The septum is a structure made of cartilage and bone located between the two nasal passages. In an adult, the septum, which averages 7 centimeters in length, supports the nose and separates the right and left airways. It prevents disease-causing microorganisms from entering the body through the airway by retaining moisture inside the nose. Normally, the septum has a straight structure. However, it can be deviated congenitally or due to trauma, blocking one or both nasal passages. This condition obstructs airflow, making breathing difficult, and can also increase the risk of sinus infections. During septoplasty, the surgeon repositions the septum in a straight line in the center of the nasal passages. During the procedure, bone, cartilage, or both may be shaved or partially removed.
How is Septoplasty Performed?
Septoplasty surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used is determined by the surgeon based on the size of the procedure. Cartilage and bone structures are cut and repositioned to correct the deviation of the septum. For this procedure, the surgeon may make a small incision inside the nostrils. Then, they lift the thin layer resembling a membrane covering the septum. Cartilage and bone strips may be used to reshape the underlying bone and cartilage structures. If the deviation is severe, the surgeon may completely remove the bone and cartilage structures forming the septum and reshape and reposition the structures beneath the septum. Septoplasty surgery, which lasts between 30-90 minutes on average, does not involve breaking the nasal bones.
Who Can Have Septoplasty?
Septal deviation is a condition that negatively affects quality of life. Those born with septal deviation may experience an increase in deviation with age. They may have difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, and sinus infections due to dryness in the nasal passages. In addition, snoring, loud breathing during sleep, nasal congestion, and increased nasal pressure may occur. Excessive deviation of the septum may also lead to facial pain. If you experience these symptoms, you may have a deviated septum. Septoplasty may also be recommended for the following conditions:
Removal of nasal polyps
Treatment of chronic sinusitis
Treatment of chronic nosebleeds
Septoplasty is generally recommended for individuals over 18 years of age who have completed nasal development. However, children born with septal deviation may undergo septoplasty surgery at the discretion of the surgeon.
What to Expect After Septoplasty?
Although septoplasty is considered a minor operation, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations to reduce the risk of bleeding and infection after the procedure. Do not neglect to use all medications prescribed by your doctor for pain relief and infection prevention. You can shorten the recovery process by considering the following recommendations:
Use a high pillow while resting or sleeping to reduce nasal pressure.
Avoid blowing your nose to clean it.
Choose clothing that is easy to put on and take off, especially those with front buttons, zippers, or ties.
Avoid high-intensity exercises such as running or aerobics for at least five weeks; you can engage in light-paced walks.
Nasal tissues begin to fully function normally 3-6 months after surgery. However, it is recommended to continue protecting your nose from potential accidents and traumas.