How Is Septoplasty Performed?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure usually requiring general anesthesia. Our NYC septoplasty surgeon may also use a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort immediately following your procedure. All septoplasty incisions are made within the nose. First, the mucoperichondrial flaps inside the nose are raised on each side of the septum. The area of the septum that has become deviated is repositioned back to its normal midline position if possible. In some cases, the area where the deviation has occurred is reshaped or removed. The mucoperichondrial flaps are then lowered back into place and sutured. Our septoplasty surgeon does not typically use septal splints because of the discomfort they can cause.
Is Septoplasty Combined With Other Forms Of Sinus Surgery?
Septoplasty can be combined with turbinate reduction (or turbinoplasty) to achieve comprehensive results. The turbinates are structures located inside the nose that humidify and filter the air we breathe. These turbinates can become enlarged due to infections or allergies. As a result, an enlarged turbinate can block airflow. Septoplasty and turbinoplasty can be performed together to remove blockages and improve breathing. Learn more about turbinate reduction by clicking here.
Can Deviated Septum Repair Reduce Allergies, Colds, Or Sinus Infections?
Septoplasty is designed to improve airflow and may help patients breathe better during a cold or infection. However, septoplasty is not designed to limit colds, chronic sinus infections, or allergies. Our septoplasty surgeon can discuss alternative treatment options for these conditions in more detail. Learn more about our allergy treatments by clicking here.
What Can I Expect Following Septoplasty In NYC?
Mild nasal congestion is expected for 1-3 weeks following deviated septum repair. Because all incisions are made within the nose, patients should not experience any bruising or swelling following their septoplasty. A nasal drip pad may be required for the initial days of recovery. This drip pad is designed to collect any light bleeding that may occur in order to optimize healing. Patients may need to change the drip pad frequently for the first 1-2 days of their septoplasty recovery. Septoplasty patients will be prescribed medication to alleviate discomfort following their treatment. Temporary numbness of the teeth may occur; this should resolve over time.
Patients should try to avoid blowing the nose as much as possible; however, it is permitted to lightly blow your nose if necessary to relieve pressure. You should avoid bending or lifting anything greater than 10-15 pounds for at least a week. Vigorous exercise should be avoided until permitted by our septoplasty surgeon. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled in subsequent weeks to monitor your healing and recovery. Dr. Shin can discuss specific timelines and post-care instructions with you during your septoplasty consultation at our NYC office.
Septoplasty can achieve long-lasting results for patients. Correcting a septal deviation can improve airflow through the nostrils and alleviate the accompanying symptoms of your nasal blockage, such as congestion, reoccurring sinus infections, and post-nasal drip.
Can Septoplasty Improve Snoring And Sleep Quality?
Some patients report that their snoring and quality of sleep have improved after undergoing septoplasty. This is not the ultimate goal of septoplasty, however. If you are suffering from sleep apnea or chronic snoring, then you may benefit from alternative treatments. Learn more about snoring and sleep apnea treatments by clicking here.