Every year, thousands of men and women undergo some form of nose surgery. Nasal surgery (rhinoplasty) can be performed for cosmetic reasons or to improve the function of the inner part of the nose. One of the most commonly performed procedures to improve nasal function is septoplasty.
As the name suggests, septoplasty corrects problems associated with the septum. The septum is the interior part of the nose that separates the left and right nostrils, and it is comprised of bone and cartilage. Septoplasty surgery straightens crooked bone and cartilage inside of the nose (a deviated septum). This procedure is regularly performed to correct the following conditions:
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Snoring
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Sleep Apnea
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Chronic Sinus Issues
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Allergies
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Vertigo
Septoplasty can also be performed to remove nasal polyps (growths of inflamed tissue) and improve irregular breathing problems caused by deformities from birth or traumatic events.
Surgery is done with the patient under general anesthesia and takes less than a couple hours to perform. Incisions are made inside of the nose, where the mucosa (layer of soft tissue that lines the nasal passages) is separated from the bone and cartilage. If the septum is badly deviated, then certain portions of it may be entirely removed or repositioned in the nose. Once the cartilage is straightened, the incisions are closed with sutures.
Since septoplasty is performed entirely through the nostrils, patients don’t have to worry about any external scarring. After the procedure is complete, the nose will be packed with gauze and wrapped with bandages to limit postoperative bleeding. A few days of downtime will be needed for recovery, but patients are able to return after about a week.
Septoplasty is a very effective procedure that typically rids individuals of all prior nasal problems. The results of surgery are long lasting, and patients not only see a noticeable improvement in breathing, but they also generally develop a new sense of self-confidence.
If you suffer from any of the above listed symptoms, perhaps the problem exists because of a deviated septum. At the Wise Center For Plastic Surgery, we understand how discouraging it can be to live with sinus problems, which is why we dedicate ourselves to helping you achieve all of your goals. To schedule a consultation with our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Wise, please call (888) 295-6933 or fill out our online contact form today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
