The septum is the structure found in between the two nostrils. It is made of fine bone and cartilage. In some people, the cartilage or the bone of the septum is misaligned, which can create issues.

Specifically, the airflow in and out of the nostrils depends on the shape of the nasal septum. This means that to be able to breathe easily, it’s important that your septum not have any malformations. Even the slightest crookedness can cause a lot of impact.

Septoplasty Surgery

To restore proper airflow, the nasal septum must be straightened. Now, thanks to advancements in medicine, even minor corrections can be performed with the help of corrective procedures. The procedure through which nasal septum deviation is corrected is called septoplasty.

Deviation of the septum might occur either at birth or due to injury. No matter what the reason is, it can still be corrected by septoplasty. If the issue of a deviated septum is not corrected, you may experience various problems. Some people experience excessive snoring, and others might suffer from sleep apnea.

The Procedure

The septoplasty procedure is very common these days. During a consultation with the patient, the surgeon evaluates the nasal structure and decides on the level of correction required depending on the level of deviation.

The entire surgical process might take 30 to 90 minutes on average. The patient is given anesthesia to begin the procedure, helping to avoid pain and discomfort. A small incision is then made on the nasal columella, the region of skin between the nostrils. The skin and mucous membrane are lifted, allowing the surgeon access to the inner septum region.

The repositioning of the septum is then performed. This is usually done by moving cartilage or bone. Sutures might be added to hold the septum in the correct position, but this is not required in all instances. Once the septum is corrected, the mucous membrane is repositioned and the skin is redraped. The incision is then sewn shut with sutures.

Before and After the Procedure

As with most other surgeries, this one requires patients to make temporary alterations to certain lifestyle habits. There will also be restrictions on medication taken few days before and after the surgery. This is done in order to avoid the interference of the medications with the anesthesia and painkillers taken before and after the surgery.

Once all allergies and infections are ruled out, your surgeon gives you a checklist of do’s and don’ts for before and after the surgery to make sure you’re properly prepared.

The recovery process is not a very complicated one. In most cases, no hospitalization will be needed after the surgery. Temporary swelling and discomfort in the nose are common after the surgery, and patients are given painkillers to address this.

To keep the septum in place and to prevent bleeding, there might be some cotton stuffed in the nose. Keeping one’s head elevated at night can help relieve discomfort. It is best to avoid blowing one’s nose during the healing process.

Arrange Your Consultation

Correct your septal malformation using septoplasty surgery – schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrew Compton, a well-respected facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Compton has numerous satisfied patients and will be happy to answer your questions.