Introduction – Septoplasty
A septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum—the wall between the nostrils that separates the two nasal passages. When this wall is crooked or off-center, it can obstruct breathing and cause other issues. Septoplasty straightens the septum to provide several benefits.
What Are The Benefits Of A Septoplasty?
Improves Breathing
The most common symptom of a deviated septum is difficulty breathing through the nose. One or both nostrils may be partially blocked, making it hard to get adequate airflow.
During a septoplasty, the plastic surgeon repositions the septum into the proper midline position. This opens the nasal passages and allows air to flow freely through both nostrils. Patients report they can breathe clearly through their nose again.
Restores Proper Nasal Function
In addition to improved breathing, a septoplasty helps restore overall nasal function. With the airways open, the nose can again properly filter, warm, and humidify air entering the lungs.
Mucus drainage and olfactory function also improve when structural abnormalities no longer block nasal passages. Overall nasal health is restored.
Reduces Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Breathing disruptions during sleep, including snoring and sleep apnea, can occur with a deviated septum. Following septoplasty surgery, many patients report a reduction in snoring and apneic episodes.
Unblocking the nasal airways helps promote free airflow during sleep. As quality of sleep improves, patients often feel more energized during the day.
Relieves Chronic Sinusitis
A crooked septum can impair sinus drainage, leading to repeated sinus infections. This chronic sinusitis causes facial pain and pressure, congestion, and headaches.
By realigning the septum, septoplasty allows mucus to drain normally from the sinuses. This relieves congestion and associated sinus issues. Patients may see a marked decrease in sinus infections.
Stops Nosebleeds and Irritation
A deviated septum often becomes irritated inside the nasal passage, resulting in crusting, discomfort, and nosebleeds. During septoplasty, obstructions and irritants are removed from the delicate nasal tissue.
With improved airflow and the irritant eliminated, the nasal lining can heal. Patients experience fewer nosebleeds and less nasal irritation.
Improves Sense of Smell
If a deviated septum obstructs airflow through the olfactory region, smell becomes impaired. By opening nasal passages, septoplasty can help restore normal olfactory function.
Patients regain the ability to perceive odors and enjoy food aromas. For some, an improved sense of smell is an unexpected benefit after surgery.
Enhances Facial Appearance
In some cases, a severely deviated septum alters external nasal structure, causing the nose to appear crooked. Straightening the underlying septum can help straighten and center the external nose as well.
The plastic surgeon may also refine the nose further by performing an open rhinoplasty at the same time. With cosmetic and functional issues addressed together, facial balance and proportion are enhanced.
Long-Lasting Results
Unlike non-surgical treatments, septoplasty offers permanent, lasting results in most cases. The surgeon reshapes cartilage and bone so the septum maintains its correct position over time.
Periodic follow up visits help ensure proper healing occurs. Barring any new nasal trauma, outcomes are long-lasting.
Combines Well With Rhinoplasty
Many patients choose to combine their septoplasty with rhinoplasty in what is termed “septorhinoplasty.” This allows internal realignment of the septum along with external reshaping of the nasal structure.
For example, a dorsal hump can be reduced and tip refined, while simultaneously straightening the crooked septum. This combination addresses functional and cosmetic nasal concerns together.
Fast Recovery Time
Septoplasty is an outpatient ambulatory procedure, allowing patients to go home the same day as surgery. While some swelling and nasal congestion occur initially, these resolve within one to two weeks. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
Most patients can return to work or school within a week. The overall recovery period is relatively quick, especially compared to previous extensive procedures for septal deviation.
Choose an Experienced Surgeon
As with any plastic surgery procedure, the skill of the surgeon is key to achieving optimal septoplasty results. Be sure to select a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills or an otolaryngologist with extensive training in septoplasty techniques.
Ask how many deviated septum corrections they perform annually. Look at before/after photos to evaluate results. An experienced, meticulous surgeon helps ensure lasting functional and cosmetic improvements.
In summary, septoplasty offers many benefits for patients with a crooked or obstructed nasal septum. By straightening the septum, this surgery can improve breathing, sleep quality, sinus health, nosebleeds, and facial appearance. When combined with rhinoplasty, both cosmetic and functional goals can be achieved together. Selecting an expert plastic surgeon helps patients enjoy the full benefits from their septoplasty procedure.
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