When the nasal septum that divides your nose into two nostrils gets “deviated” or moved from its normal place, one nostril is no longer as wide as it was originally. This can make breathing difficulty or lead to dry, bloody noses.
These symptoms can occur because of the deviation itself or because of the swelling of surrounding tissues interrupting airflow. Although it is possible to treat symptoms with medications and similar treatments, a deviated septum can only be permanently corrected surgically.
Why bother with surgery?
A deviated septum can be a minor inconvenience you barely notice, or you may find it’s extremely difficult to breathe, especially with a cold or at night. Additionally, airflow may dry out the nostrils, causing nosebleeds and pain not only in the nose but also on the side of the face. According to the Mayo Clinic, when nosebleeds become frequent, the nostrils refuse to unclog to allow easy breathing, sinus infections become chronic, and symptoms won’t respond to medication. If this happens to you, it may be time to consider surgery.
What is septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a reparative surgery for a deviated septum which adjusts the shape and location of the nasal septum to allow a more centralized placement. An incision is made in the nose to remove the septum’s lining, the septum is adjusted, and the lining is put back into place with stitches. Nasal splints, which look like sturdy clear plastic straws attached to an ovular piece of backing, may be used internally or externally to promote healing. Surgeons may also be required to remove turbinate, or nasal tissue, in order to appropriately relocate the septum. The removal of the nasal tissue is called a turbinectomy.
The goal of both procedures is to enhance breathing and drainage in the nose; often other symptoms (such as chronic nosebleeds) improve as a byproduct of this. Rhinoplasty, a surgical procedure for changing the shape of the nose, is occasionally needed to change the shape or size of additional cartilage and/or bone.
How effective are these procedures?
As with any major surgery, there is no guarantee of perfection. Although issues caused specifically by a deviated septum are generally cleared up, there are sometimes extraneous sinus issues that may require separate treatment to be managed fully.
What are the risks?
Most septoplasty and additional procedures come with minimal risks and are quite successful. When complications do occur, they generally come in the form of nosebleeds, numbness in the face, change in the sense of smell, and continued sinus problems.
Some swelling of the affected area is relatively common after surgery, but excessive swelling can be an indicator that it’s time to call the doctor, as can a high fever, sharp pain, or an abrupt escalation of bleeding.
