Septoplasty is a reconstructive surgery designed to correct septum deviations. It is intended for men and women affected by functional and aesthetic consequences of the deviations (blocked nose, nasal obstruction, deformation…).
Nasal septum deviations
What is septum deviation ?
A deviated nasal septum is a malformation of the inner wall of the nose. This deviation can affect the cartilage, the bone or both at the same time. The deviated septum can be a congenital defect or caused by trauma. The deviated septum can cause medical and / or aesthetic issues :
- The deviation can result in chronic nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, snoring, sinus and ear infections and sometimes migraines.
- Breathing difficulties can be source of poor sleep and chronic fatigue.Septum deviation can also distort the shape of the nose, resulting in an unsightly appearance.
Almost 80% of adults have a certain degree of septum deviation. In most cases, it is a slight deviation that does not cause breathing or aesthetic issues.
Septoplasty procedure
Septoplasty surgery aims at reshaping or partially removing deformed parts of the nasal septum causing the obstruction.
Surgical options
Two incision techniques can be used depending on the patient’s anatomy :Endonasal incision : the scar is hidden inside the nose.Incision at the base of the nose for more complex deviations (external incision).Once the nasal septum is separated from attachments (skin and mucosa), surgeons can proceed with partial removal and reshaping of the deformed parts of the septum. The procedure ends with sutures and splint placement on each side of the septum and nasal packing to limit bleeding as well as postoperative swelling. In case of severe deviation, septoplasty can be associated with rhinoplasty. The septoplasty surgery is 30 to 90 minutes long, it is performed under general anesthesia.
