A septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated nasal septum—the wall of cartilage and bone separating the nasal passages. The procedure is purely functional, designed to straighten this structure to improve nasal airflow and relieve breathing difficulties. Identifying the medical professionals involved provides clarity for patients considering the surgery. The team includes the primary surgeon and a highly trained group of specialists who ensure the procedure is performed safely and successfully.
The Otolaryngologist
The professional who performs the vast majority of septoplasties is an Otolaryngologist, often referred to as an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor. This medical specialty focuses on the surgical and medical treatment of conditions affecting the head and neck, specifically the complex anatomy of the nasal passages. The Otolaryngologist’s training is centered on structures like the septum, making them the primary expert for correcting a septal deviation.
Their role begins with a thorough examination, often using an endoscope to visualize the deviation and diagnose the cause of the nasal obstruction. Once the surgical plan is established, the ENT surgeon executes the septoplasty, typically making an incision entirely inside the nose to access the septum. They carefully lift the mucosal lining before reshaping, trimming, or removing the deviated portions of the septum.
The surgeon reconstructs the septal structure, sometimes using pieces of the patient’s own cartilage to stabilize the newly straightened septum. This precise work ensures the functional outcome of restoring airflow through the nasal passages. A standard, functional septoplasty is usually performed solely by the Otolaryngologist, often as an outpatient procedure.
When Other Surgical Specialties Are Involved
While the Otolaryngologist handles most septoplasties, other surgeons become involved when the procedure is combined with cosmetic changes to the external nose. This combined operation is called a septorhinoplasty, addressing both the functional breathing issue and the aesthetic appearance of the nose. In these cases, a Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon may collaborate with or perform the surgery.
Facial Plastic Surgeons complete extensive training focusing specifically on the face, head, and neck, often including a residency in Otolaryngology or Plastic Surgery. Their expertise ensures that the functional correction of the septum does not compromise the external structure of the nose. This collaborative approach is designed to achieve both a clear airway and a desired aesthetic outcome simultaneously.
The Essential Operating Room Team
The success and safety of a septoplasty rely on a coordinated team of non-surgeon medical professionals in the operating room. A physician Anesthesiologist or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) administers anesthesia, which can be general or local, and monitors the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure. This provider maintains a stable physiological state for the patient, allowing the surgeon to concentrate fully on the operation.
Operating Room Nurses and Surgical Technicians play a preparatory and supportive role. The surgical technician, or scrub tech, prepares the sterile instruments and anticipates the surgeon’s needs by passing tools during the operation. A circulating nurse manages the operating room environment, ensuring the necessary supplies are available and maintaining meticulous records.
Qualifications and Credentialing for Surgeons
For any surgeon to perform a septoplasty, they must complete a rigorous training pathway that begins with medical school and culminates in board certification. Otolaryngologists, the primary septoplasty providers, complete a multi-year residency program focused on the diseases and surgery of the ear, nose, and throat. Following residency, they must pass comprehensive examinations to become certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.
Board certification confirms that the surgeon has met high standards of training and knowledge within their specialty. A further step is required at the institutional level, known as credentialing and privileging. Credentialing verifies the surgeon’s education, training, and licensure. Privileging is the specific authorization granted by a hospital to perform certain procedures, like septoplasty, based on demonstrated competence and experience. The process requires ongoing peer review and quality assessments to ensure the surgeon maintains professional development and adherence to best practices.