Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to straighten a deviated septum. The septum is the cartilage and bone structure that divides the two sides of your nose. When it becomes deviated or crooked, it can block airflow, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. Septoplasty helps improve airflow, reduces snoring, and alleviates other symptoms related to a deviated septum, ultimately improving your quality of life.

How Does Septoplasty Work?

Septoplasty is typically a straightforward procedure, performed under either general or local anaesthesia. Here’s how the surgery is generally performed:

1. Anaesthesia

You’ll be given either general anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep throughout the procedure, or local anaesthesia with sedation, where the area is numbed but you’ll remain awake and relaxed.

2. Making the Incision

The ENT specialist will make an incision inside your nose on one side, ensuring there are no visible scars after healing.

3. Accessing the Septum

The mucous membrane, which is the thin lining inside your nose, is gently lifted to expose the bone and cartilage of your septum.

4. Reshaping the Septum

The surgeon will carefully trim or reshape the crooked cartilage and bone. In some cases, grafts from other parts of your nose might be used to provide additional support.

5. Repositioning and Securing the Septum

Once the septum has been reshaped, the mucous membrane is repositioned, and the septum is secured in place. In some cases, splints or packing may be placed inside your nose to support the septum during the healing process.

Recovery After Septoplasty

Recovery after septoplasty varies for each person, but most individuals begin to feel significantly better within a few days to a week. Here’s what to expect during recovery:

• Nasal Congestion: You may experience some nasal congestion and discomfort around the nose after surgery, which is common and manageable with medication.
• Avoid Blowing Your Nose: To promote proper healing, it’s crucial to avoid blowing your nose forcefully for about four weeks after the surgery.
• Follow-up Appointments: Your ENT doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and remove any splints or packing.

Is Septoplasty Right for You?

Septoplasty is a highly effective solution for individuals suffering from a deviated septum that causes symptoms such as difficulty breathing, frequent snoring, nasal congestion, or recurrent nosebleeds. If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, septoplasty could be a life-changing procedure.

Before making a decision, consult with an ENT doctor to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and the potential benefits of septoplasty. Your doctor will help determine if septoplasty is the best treatment option for your condition.

If you’re struggling with the symptoms of a deviated septum, don’t wait to seek professional help. Schedule a consultation with an ENT specialist to discuss your options and explore whether septoplasty is the right solution for you.