Septoplasty

Each side of the nasal cavity is separated by a midline structure, the septum. The septum is made of cartilage and bone. Deviation of the septum from the midline can narrow the airway significantly to cause nasal obstruction on the side of the narrowing. If desired the septum can be straightened by an operation called a "septoplasty", inorder to improve the nasal airway.

How is the operation performed?

The operation is usually performed under general anaesthetic, and usually as a day case procedure. A cut is made inside the nose and the septum is straightened by removing some parts and mobilising the other parts. There is no external bruising or scars.

What to expect after the operation?

In hospital

You will experience the after effects of an anaesthetic. Your nose may or may not be packed to prevent bleeding. It is normal to have very minor bleeding soon after surgery. The packing will be removed prior to your discharge.

At Home

Your nose will feel blocked for a few weeks after surgery, because of the swelling inside the nose. You may be advised to carry out nasal douching or irrigation frequently.

What are the complications of septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a fairly safe and common procedure. As with any procedure your doctor will inform you of the potential complications which include:

Bleeding

You may experience some bleeding from the nose. It is usually minor and easily controllable. If more severe the nose may need repacking or reexamination.

Perforation

There is a small risk that a hole is created in the septum during surgery. This is usually repairable at the time of surgery.

Numbness of the upper teeth

Rarely you may experience tingling or numbness of the upper front teeth and gum. This is due to injury to a nerve that crosses in close proximity of the lower part of the septum. Commonly, if this complication occurs the symptoms resolve after a few weeks to monhs.

Cosmetic deformity

Generally speaking there should be no change to the outside shape of the nose, unless it was planned prior to surgery. However, rarely there may be small minor changes that becomes noticeable over time.

Revision Surgery

In less than 3% of cases (my figures) revision surgery is necessary to reposition the septum.