Introduction

Trouble breathing through your nose isn’t simply a minor inconvenience. It could influence your sleep, concentration physical performance, as well as your overall well-being. One of the most frequent causes of nasal obstruction that is chronic is a nasal septum that has been deviated. When non-surgical methods and medications don’t work anymore, septoplasty surgery is recommended as a procedure. In this article, we’ll guide you through all you need to know about septoplasty. It will be explained in plain language.

What Is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is an operation performed to fix the nasal septum that is deviated which is the bone and cartilage which divides the two nasal space. A septum that is deviated occurs when this wall of division is not in the right place or is bent and causes nasal blockage and breathing problems. Septoplasty seeks in order to straighten and align the septum to allow for better breathing through the nose.

The procedure is typically done through an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgeon and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that patients are able to go home that same day.

Causes of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum could be present since birth or developed later in the course of. Common causes are:

1. Congenital Disorder :- Some people are born with a septum that is deviated due to the way their nose was developed in the womb.

2. Nasal trauma :- Trauma to the nose, whether from accidents, sports or fights can cause the septum of the nose to shift.

3. Ageing :- As time passes, nasal structures can change which can make a deviation even more pronounced.

4. Previous surgeries :- Some nasal procedures could result in the nasal septum crooked or cause it to lose its alignment.

A deviated septum may not always result in symptoms, but if it does, surgery might be required.

Diagnosis of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum diagnosis typically requires:

1. Physical Exam :- Using a nasal speculum, a doctor will check for the presence of asymmetry or obstruction.

2. The Endoscopic Examination :- A thin camera can be placed inside the nose to provide a more detailed view.

3. Imaging tests (if required) :- CT scans or X-rays may help determine the extent and precise where the deviation is occurring.

Based on your exam and the results of the exam, your doctor will talk about the options for treatment such as septoplasty if required.

How Septoplasty Surgery Is Performed

1. Preparation :- Before surgery the doctor:

Check your medical history as well as any currently prescribed medications.
Avoid blood thinners such as Ibuprofen and aspirin.
It is recommended to fast for a few hours prior to surgery, in the event that general anesthesia is required.

2. Anesthesia :- Septoplasty is a procedure that can be done in conjunction with local anesthesia, the aid of sedation as well as general anesthesia based on the level of complexity and comfortable level.

3. Surgical Procedure :-

The surgeon creates an incision within the nostril and avoids any visible external cuts or marks.
The mucous membrane (a soft tissue layer) is removed from joint cartilage as well as bone.
The segments that have deviated the septum can be removed and reshaped.
The mucous membrane then relocated.
Soft packing or splints can be used to ensure that the septum stays straight throughout the healing process.

The process typically lasts between between 30 and 90 minutes.

Risks and Complications

While septoplasty is generally considered to be to be safe, as are all surgeries that are performed, it is not without risk. This could include:

1. Bleeding :- Mild to moderate bleeding is normal during the initial few days.

2. Infections :- Though rare, infections can happen and are treated by antibiotics.

3. Septal Perforation :- A tiny hole can be created in the septum creating whistling sounds or crusting.

4. Reduced Sense of Smell :- Usually temporary but could last for years in rare instances.

5. Scarring or adhesions :- Tissue inside the nose can stick together at times, requiring minimal revision surgeries.

6. Changes in Nasal Form :- Rarely, the nose can look different following surgery.

The careful follow-up of the surgeon’s instructions will reduce the risk.

Recovery After Septoplasty

1. Immediately After Surgery :- The majority of patients go home that next day. There are nasal packing or splints to reduce bleeding and help support the septum. A mild discomfort, swelling and congestion are to be expected.

2. Recovery Timeline :-

1-Week :- The splints have been removed. Most discomfort subsides.
2-3 Weeks :- Swelling reduces. Breathing improves gradually.
1- 2 Months :- Full recovery is usually achieved, but internal healing can be slower.

Do’s and Don’ts During Recovery

Do:

Relax and keep your head up
Sprays for nasal saline to ensure that your nasal passages remain humid
Get prescribed antibiotics and painkillers.

Don’t:

You should blow your nose for one week
Perform intense exercise or lift weights
Drink or smoke cigarettes
Air travel is not permitted until you are you are cleared by your doctor

When to See a Doctor

Seek out the ENT expert if:

Persistent breathing difficulty
Infections that occur in the sinuses or nasal area
Chronic nasal congestion
The symptoms of sleep apnea and snoring
Relying on sprays for nasal relief, with only a little relief

An assessment will establish if septoplasty surgery is suitable for you.

Conclusion

Septoplasty is a secure and efficient treatment for those who suffer from a deviated septum. With advances in medical technology and advanced techniques for surgery, the majority of patients recover quickly and get lasting relief from nasal obstructions and associated symptoms.

If you’re sick of having obstructions in your nasal passages or sinus issues, septoplasty may be the procedure that you require. Talk to a reputable ENT surgeon to find out more about the options available and get started on your path to better breathing.