Interesting Facts About Septoplasty

Correction of the Nasal Septum

Do you have trouble breathing through one or both sides of your nose, recurring nosebleeds, or unexplained facial pain? If so, you might have a deviated septum.

The nasal septum is the thin partition of bone and cartilage that divides the entire right nostril from the left. When the septum is crooked or shifted away from the midline, it is called a deviated septum. It is estimated that more than 75% of people have a deviated septum, so this condition is more common than it is to have a perfectly straight septum through the center of your nose.

If the deviation of your septum is so severe that it causes difficulty in breathing or nosebleeds, then it may be in your best interest to consider having a septoplasty to surgically correct your deviated septum. Let's talk about how this procedure works, how it may benefit you, and where you can go in Austin for medical treatment to help you breathe more easily.

What Does Septoplasty Address?

A deviated septum can interfere with your airway and can increase your risk of developing nasal infections. A severely crooked deviated septum can cause the following:

• Disturbed sleep
• Nosebleeds
• Headaches and facial pain
• Nasal congestion
• Dry mouth

Your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor may suggest septoplasty to reduce or eliminate these symptoms. After you heal, you should experience better airflow and improved breathing.

A Septoplasty Reshapes or Removes Bone and Cartilage

A septoplasty is performed entirely through the nostrils. Your ENT doctor will reshape or remove tiny portions of the bone and cartilage in your septum and make it straighter and less intrusive inside your nose. The surgeon may place small splints or soft plastic sheets to help your septum heal properly after the surgery.

Septoplasty Is Usually an Outpatient Procedure

Septoplasty typically takes 15 to 30 minutes for your doctor to complete. Once the mild anesthesia wears off, you can go home after observation by your doctor.

Your ENT doctor will ask you to follow certain precautions, such as elevating your head while you sleep at night and avoiding blowing your nose for a few weeks. It's also best to avoid strenuous physical activity and movements that will put pressure on your head and face.