Septoplasty

Are you struggling with breathing through your nose and considering a deviated septum surgery? You’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from this condition, and many decide to have the surgery to improve their quality of life. In this blog post, we will discuss what a deviated septum is, the symptoms associated with it, and the options for treating it—including deviated septum surgery. Learn more to determine if this procedure is right for you.

What is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum is a condition in which the thin wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two sides of the nose (the septum) is displaced or crooked. This displacement causes an obstruction in the nasal passageways, leading to difficulty breathing and a decrease in airflow. It can be caused by injuries, such as a broken nose, or can be present at birth. The displacement of the septum can range from mild to severe and can affect one or both sides of the nose. In severe cases, corrective surgery may be required to realign the septum and open up the nasal passages.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum can lead to a variety of symptoms, which may be minor or more severe depending on the degree of deviation. Common symptoms include difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, sinus infections, and congestion. Other symptoms include headaches, snoring, and facial pain or pressure. If left untreated, a deviated septum can lead to chronic sinusitis or reduced quality of life.

Causes of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum is often caused by trauma to the nose, such as a sports injury or car accident. It can also be caused by a birth defect; some people are born with a misaligned septum. In some cases, the cause is unknown, but the condition can still be present.

Diagnosing a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum can usually be diagnosed with a physical examination. Your doctor may use a lighted scope to look inside your nose and check the septum. They may also use imaging tests, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to get a better view of the structure of your nose. An allergy test may also be done if your doctor suspects allergies are causing your symptoms. In some cases, a nasal endoscopy may be done to look for signs of inflammation inside your nose. Your doctor may also take a swab of the inside of your nose to test for infection.

Treatment Options for a Deviated Septum

When a deviated septum is causing symptoms, treatment may be necessary. The most common treatment for a deviated septum is surgery, known as septoplasty. Septoplasty is a reconstructive plastic surgery performed to correct an improperly formed nasal septum. It is usually an outpatient procedure and is performed by an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist. During the surgery, the surgeon will make an incision on one side of the nose to access the septum. They will then lift up the mucous membrane and trim, straighten, and reposition the cartilage and/or bone in order to create two nasal passages that are the same size. This helps to correct any airflow disturbance caused by the deviated septum. Once the procedure is complete, the mucous membrane is placed back, and nasal packing may be used to ensure proper healing. The entire procedure typically takes between one to two hours.

In some cases, a deviated septum can be treated without surgery. A doctor may recommend using a nasal spray or other medications to help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

How to Prepare for Surgery

Before undergoing septoplasty, it is important to take certain steps to prepare, such as scheduling a preoperative appointment with the surgeon. During this appointment, the doctor will review the procedure and provide instructions for pre and postoperative care. In addition, the patient should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol before surgery. It is also important to inform the surgeon of any medications, supplements, and vitamins being taken.

The patient may be instructed to discontinue certain medications before surgery, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase bleeding. The doctor may also recommend that the patient fast for 8 to 12 hours before surgery. The patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure and prepare for a few days’ recovery time.

The Surgical Procedure for Deviated Septum Repair

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated septum. The septum is a wall of bone and cartilage, which separates the two sides of the nose. Septoplasty straightens the nasal septum by trimming, repositioning and replacing cartilage or bone. In a typical procedure, the surgeon makes an incision on one side of your nose to access the septum. They next lift up the mucous membrane, which covers the septum, and then reshape or remove parts of the bone or cartilage that are blocking the airway. The surgeon then replaces any removed cartilage or bone with pieces of plastic or cartilage taken from another part of your nose. Finally, they close the incision with stitches and apply a bandage or tape to the area. The procedure generally takes one to two hours to complete and is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Recovery Time After Surgery

Septoplasty is a relatively minor procedure, and the recovery time is usually only a few days. During this time, you should rest and avoid strenuous activity. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help with pain and inflammation. Your nose may also be congested and feel stuffy for a few days after the surgery. You should also avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully for at least two weeks after the surgery. Some people may experience some bleeding or drainage from the nose for a few weeks after the surgery. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care, such as using saline sprays or other medications to keep the nasal passages clear.

Potential Complications After Surgery

Septoplasty/deviated septum surgery can carry a risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, nosebleeds, and scarring. In rare cases, the procedure can cause nerve damage which can lead to a loss of feeling in the face. Additionally, there is a risk of the septum becoming deviated again over time. It is important to discuss all potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor.

Postoperative Care After Surgery

Postoperative care is an important part of the recovery process after deviated septum surgery. Your healthcare provider will provide you with detailed instructions for recovering after the procedure. You may need to take antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort, as well as saline nasal rinses or sprays to help keep your nose clean and moist. Additionally, it is important to avoid blowing your nose and strenuous exercise for the first few weeks after surgery. It is also important to avoid activities that could cause a jarring of the nose, such as contact sports or activities that involve quick changes in direction. Your healthcare provider may also recommend elevating your head while sleeping and avoiding hot showers or saunas for the first few days following surgery. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful recovery after deviated septum surgery.

Cost of the Procedure

The cost of deviated septum surgery depends on your insurance plan and the location of the surgery. Generally, the cost of septoplasty ranges from $2,000 to $10,000 and is usually covered by insurance. If you are considering septoplasty, it is important to discuss the cost of the procedure with your doctor ahead of time.

Alternatives to Surgery

When it comes to treating a deviated septum, there are several alternatives to surgery. Depending on the severity of the condition, some patients may be able to find relief with medications and lifestyle changes. Non-surgical treatments, such as nasal sprays and decongestants, can help reduce inflammation and open up the nasal passages. However, these remedies do not affect the actual deviated septum.

Patients may also find relief from alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga. These treatments can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can lead to improved breathing and help reduce symptoms associated with a deviated septum. In addition, lifestyle changes such as avoiding allergens, quitting smoking, and eating a healthy diet can all help reduce symptoms associated with a deviated septum.

Risks and Benefits of the Procedure

Septoplasty is a relatively safe procedure with few risks. The most common risks include bleeding, infection, and scarring. The surgeon also takes great care to avoid damaging the delicate structures of the nose. Additionally, many people experience a reduction in breathing difficulty and improved quality of life after the procedure. This is because the septum is now properly aligned and no longer obstructs the airway. Additionally, the procedure can also improve the appearance of the nose, as well as provide relief from sinus congestion and headaches.

Conclusion

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure used to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition that causes obstruction of the nasal passages. This procedure can help improve breathing, reduce snoring and sleep apnea, and improve overall quality of life. It is important to note that septoplasty is not a cure for all nasal issues, and it is important to speak with a qualified Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist about whether this procedure is right for you. It is also important to understand the risks and benefits associated with septoplasty before making the decision to have the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to deviated septum surgery, there are many questions that patients may have. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the procedure:

What is a deviated septum?

A deviated septum is a condition where the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils, known as the nasal septum, is crooked or off-center. This can lead to difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose.

What causes a deviated septum?

A deviated septum may be present from birth, develop overtime, or be caused by trauma or injury. It can develop over time due to aging.

What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?

The most common symptom of a deviated septum is difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose. Other symptoms may include chronic sinus infections, snoring, nosebleeds, and headaches.

What is the treatment for a deviated septum?

The treatment for a deviated septum depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, doctors may recommend conservative treatments such as nasal strips or decongestants. For more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition. This is known as septoplasty, which can be performed with or without functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

What happens during a septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure where the nasal septum is repositioned to the center of the nose. This operation can involve cutting and removing pieces of the septum before it is reinserted into the correct position. Usually, this procedure is done with local anesthesia and is typically an outpatient procedure. After the surgery, swelling may take several weeks to go down and it is important to have patience during this time. The amount of time for the surgery depends on the severity of the deviated septum. Additionally, some oozing of blood from the nose may occur in the first few days after the surgery.

Does insurance pay for septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a type of nasal surgery performed to correct a deviated septum and is typically covered by most health insurance carriers, including Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, Medicare, and Medicaid. The procedure is often covered by insurance if there is a functional component to the surgery. However, if the surgery is performed strictly for cosmetic reasons, then insurance will not cover the cost. Patients may be reimbursed for the cost of a rhinoplasty procedure if it corrects or improves breathing. It is important to note that some medical insurance plans may refuse to cover septoplasty even when it is deemed a medical necessity.