Understanding a Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall of cartilage and bone, which separates the nasal cavity into two nostrils, is displaced from its central position. This displacement can be present from birth or develop due to an injury to the nose, such as from sports or accidents. While many people have some degree of septal deviation, it only becomes a concern when it causes symptoms.
The primary issue arising from a significantly deviated septum is difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils. Other common symptoms include frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, headaches, chronic nasal congestion, and noisy breathing during sleep, including snoring or sleep apnea.
Distinguishing Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure focused on altering the external appearance of the nose. Its main goal is aesthetic, addressing concerns such as nose size, shape, symmetry, or the presence of a hump or a droopy tip. This procedure reshapes the bone and cartilage to achieve a more balanced facial appearance.
In contrast, septoplasty is a surgical procedure specifically designed to straighten the nasal septum. Its primary purpose is to improve nasal airflow and alleviate breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum. Septoplasty focuses on the internal structure of the nose, and typically does not change the external nasal appearance.
While these two procedures have distinct objectives, they can be performed together. This combined surgery, known as septorhinoplasty, addresses both functional breathing problems and aesthetic concerns simultaneously. Performing both procedures at once can be beneficial, as it allows for a single recovery period and can sometimes reduce overall costs.
Surgical Correction of a Deviated Septum
During a septoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision inside the nose, lifts the mucous membrane covering the septum, and then reshapes or removes the displaced cartilage and bone. The goal is to reposition the septum to the center, creating clear and equal nasal airways.
When a deviated septum affects the external nasal shape or aesthetic changes are desired, rhinoplasty can be incorporated. This combined septorhinoplasty procedure allows the surgeon to straighten the internal septum and refine the nose’s appearance. For example, if a crooked nose results from a severely bent septum, straightening it may involve adjusting external nasal bones. Small cartilage pieces may be removed or grafts used to support the septum in its new, straightened position, especially if significantly damaged.
Life After Septum Correction
Following septum correction, whether through septoplasty or septorhinoplasty, patients can expect a recovery period involving some common post-operative experiences. Initial recovery typically spans one to two weeks, during which swelling and discomfort around the nose are normal. Bruising may also occur, particularly if rhinoplasty was included in the procedure.
Nasal packing or splints might be placed inside the nostrils to support the newly positioned septum and control bleeding, which are usually removed within a few days or up to a week. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and nose-blowing for several weeks to ensure proper healing.
Significant improvement in breathing is often noticeable shortly after surgery, with continued improvement over several months as residual swelling resolves. Long-term benefits include improved airflow, reduced nasal congestion, fewer nosebleeds, and better sleep quality.