Septoplasty: How to Prepare

Septoplasty is surgery performed to correct a deviated septum. The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone separating the two sides of the nose. If it becomes crooked, it can make breathing difficult. While sleeping, a deviated septum can cause loud snoring. It may also contribute to sinus problems in some people.

When breathing and sleep are affected and sinus problems become frequent due to a deviated septum, surgery can help bring relief; a randomized trial in The Lancet found septoplasty improved breathing more than non-surgical care, with the benefit lasting at least two years. Let's talk more about septoplasty and how to prepare for it.

What Happens During a Septoplasty?

During a septoplasty, the surgeon corrects the deviated cartilage by cutting and removing parts of the septum through the nostrils and repositioning the cartilage into a straight position. Septoplasty is an outpatient procedure, and patients go home on the same day as the surgery.

Septoplasty, like other surgical procedures, requires planning. You will meet with the otolaryngologist or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon and discuss what to expect from the surgery, as well as possible risks and complications that can arise.

Septoplasty may be done under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon will determine which is better for you based on your overall health. The surgeon will ask about your medical history and learn what medications you are taking. They will also conduct a physical exam of your nose and take photographs for reference. The surgeon may also order lab tests, such as a blood test, for evaluation of your overall health. You will have to arrange for someone to take you home after surgery, as you will not be able to drive home.

Medication

Depending on what medication you are taking, you may need to stop taking some and adjust others. Aspirin is usually stopped one to two weeks before surgery because it increases bleeding; ask your surgeon whether you need to pause anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen. If you take aspirin or a blood thinner for your heart, a stent, or stroke prevention, do not stop it on your own; your surgeon will coordinate with the prescribing doctor. This also goes for herbal remedies or supplements that control inflammation. If you take insulin, follow your surgeon's instructions.

What to Wear

There are no clothing requirements for a septoplasty, as you will be asked to change into a hospital gown for the procedure. However, do dress comfortably in clothes that are easy to change into after surgery. Leave jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and rings at home.

Food and Drink

Follow the fasting instructions from your surgical center exactly. Many centers ask for no food after midnight the night before; current anesthesia fasting guidelines allow clear liquids until a few hours before, so ask what applies to you.

Rest

Get a good night's sleep the night before the surgery. Your body needs to be well-rested for the procedure. It can also help boost recovery.

Don't Smoke

Another habit that can negatively affect recovery is smoking. Stop smoking as far ahead of surgery as possible, ideally several weeks, and avoid it during recovery.

Part of preparing is also knowing what to expect financially. Most insurance plans cover septoplasty when it is medically necessary; see our septoplasty cost and insurance guide for self-pay pricing and how coverage works.