Septoplasty might not be a word you are familiar with but if you have a deviated septum that constantly gives you trouble; a Septoplasty might be just what you need. A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall, or nasal septum, between your nostrils is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller. Here’s what it looks like:
- Before considering a Septoplasty, you first need to figure out if your nasal issues stem from having a deviated nasal septum. Diagnosing a deviated septum is usually a straightforward task: an ENT specialist will spray your nose with decongestant and anesthetic agents, and then look inside your nose using an endoscope.
- A Septoplasty allows for the septum inside your nose – which divides the right and left sides of your nasal cavity – to be straightened by removing or reshaping it.
- Septoplasty procedures require anesthesia and take about 20 to 30 minutes. Provided that there are no complications during or after the procedure, you should be able to go home on the same day.
- During a Septoplasty, an incision is made on the inside of your nose to reach the septum and a plastic splint is temporarily placed in there to support the septum.
- After a Septoplasty you should expect some pain and discomfort for the following 2 to 3 days. You should avoid any straining activity like bending over, lifting heavy objects, or exercising.
If you think you could benefit from having a Septoplasty, talk to an ENT specialist about the benefits and risks of the procedure, about whether you would be a good candidate, and about his/her experience performing these type of procedures. If you are looking for an experienced ENT specialist, discuss your septoplasty with Dr. Pasha today!
