Septoplasty

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 the nose. People with this condition very often breathe through their mouth and may be more likely to get nasal or sinus infections.
• To treat nosebleeds that cannot be controlled.

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 could require another surgery.
• Scarring
• A perforation, or hole, in the septum
• Changes in skin sensation
• Unevenness in the appearance of the nose
• Skin discoloration

Before the Procedure

Before the procedure:

• You will meet with the doctor who will give you anesthesia during the surgery.
• You go over your medical history to help the doctor decide the best type of anesthesia.
• Be sure you tell your health care provider about any medicines you take, even drugs, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription. Also tell your doctor if you have any allergies or if you have a history of bleeding problems.
• You may need to stop taking any drugs that make it hard for your blood to clot 2 weeks before your surgery, including aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and some herbal supplements.
• You may be asked to stop eating and drinking after midnight the night before the procedure.

After the Procedure

After the procedure:

• You will most likely go home on the same day as surgery.
• After surgery, both sides of your nose may be packed (stuffed with cotton or spongy materials). This helps prevent nosebleeds.
• Most of the time this packing is removed 24 to 36 hours after surgery.
• You may have swelling or drainage for a few days after the surgery.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most septoplasty procedures are able to straighten the septum. Breathing often improves.

References

Kridel RWH, Strum-O'Brien A. The nasal septum. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund LJ, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA:Elsevier Mosby; 2015:chap 32.