Septoplasty is surgery to correct any problems in the nasal septum, the wall inside the nose that separates the nostrils. The septum should ideally run down the center of the nose. When it deviates into one of the nasal cavities, it narrows that cavity and impedes airflow.
The main indications for Septoplasty 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 may be more likely to get nasal or sinus infections. Septoplasty may also be performed in cases where a patient is having uncontrollable nosebleeds or to repair a hole in the nasal septum, also called a nasal perforation. The most common symptom from a badly deviated or crooked septum is difficulty breathing through the nose. The symptoms are usually worse on one side, and sometimes actually occur on the side opposite the bend. In some cases the crooked septum can interfere with the drainage of the sinuses, resulting in repeated sinus infections.
The goal of the surgery is to straighten out the nasal septum, to relieve obstructions, or other problems related to the deviation of the septum. An incision is made internally on one side of the nasal septum. After the mucous membrane is elevated away from the bone, obstructive parts of bone and cartilage are removed, and plastic surgery is performed as necessary. Then the mucous membrane is returned to its original position.
Patients typically go home on the same day as surgery. Most septoplasty procedures successfully straighten the septum allowing breathing to improve.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.