Septoplasty Health Article

Definition

Septoplasty is surgery to correct any problems in the nasal septum, the wall inside the nose that separates the nostrils.

See also: Rhinoplasty

Alternative Names

Nasal septum repair

Description

Most patients receive general anesthesia before septoplasty. This will make you unconscious and unable to feel pain. Some have the surgery under local anesthesia, which numbs the area to block pain. You will stay awake if you have local anesthesia. Surgery takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours. Patients usually go home the same day.

Your surgeon will make a cut inside the wall on one side of your nose.

• The mucus membrane that covers the wall will be lifted up.
• Then your surgeon will remove or move any cartilage or bone that is causing the blockage in the area.
• After this, your surgeon will put the mucus membrane back in place. This membrane will be held in place by stitches, splints, or packing material.

Why the Procedure Is Performed

The main reasons for this surgery are:

• To repair a crooked, bent, or deformed nasal septum that blocks the airway in your nose. People with this condition usually breathe through their mouth and get infections on their nose.
• Uncontrollable nosebleeds
• To repair a hole in the nasal septum. This is called nasal perforation.

People who snort large amounts of cocaine or other drugs over long periods of time may need septoplasty. Snorting drugs can damage the septum.

Risks

Risks for any surgery are:

• Allergic reactions to medicines
• Breathing problems
• Heart problems
• Bleeding
• Infection

Risks for this surgery are:

• Return of the nasal blockage. This would require another surgery.
• Scarring
• A perforation, or hole, in the septum wall
• Changes in skin sensation
• Unevenness in the appearance of the nose
• Skin discoloration
• Fluid buildup in the nose