Deviated Septum (Septoplasty)
What is a Deviated Septum?
Many patients are unaware of the differences between a rhinoplasty, a plastic surgery procedure intended for aesthetic purposes, and a septoplasty, a corrective procedure meant to alleviate complications of a deviated septum. Because of the confusion between the two, there are often misconceptions on which route to take.
Typically, the nasal septum is straight and serves as a normal airway through which oxygen passes. A deviated septum constricts the nasal passage, blocking oxygen intake and causing nasal obstruction. A septoplasty, a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum, is conducted through an incision made on the inside of the nose. Once exposed, the mucosa that covers the septum is lifted from the cartilage and bone, allowing the deviated portion of the septum to be removed or reshaped to encourage normalized breathing.
Who Can Have a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum can be present at birth or can result from injury sustained to the nose. In patients with a deviated septum, the nasal septum is displaced to one side and airflow is thereby restricted. While adhesive strips or medication can help to control symptoms, a septoplasty is a more permanent solution to retain normal breathing.
What is a Septoplasty?
A septoplasty essentially straightens the deviated septum so that respiration can more easily take place. A small incision is made inside the nostrils, through which the bone and cartilage of the deviated septum are removed or repositioned. After the procedure, the incision is closed with absorbable sutures, and splints may be applied to help the healing process and to reduce the potential for scarring. The surgery is considered to be an out patient procedure requiring no hospital stay, is complete between 1-3 hours, and is done while the patient is under general anesthesia. Following surgery, incisions generally heal quickly. It can, however, take several months for the tissues of the nasal septum to fully settle into place.
A septoplasty is recommended for patients who:
- Have a significantly crooked nose, but who do not want to change the appearance of the nose through a rhinoplasty procedure
- With recognizable difficulty breathing
- Patients with frequent nosebleeds due to dryness.
- Do not want to deal with downtime after surgery, bruising, or swelling
- Have health insurance- as the procedure is covered by insurance
Septoplasty or Rhinoplasty?
Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, a rhinoplasty is performed with intent to modify the look of the nose, while a septoplasty is a functional surgical procedure. Patients can opt in for a cosmetic surgery at the same time of their septoplasty, the two procedures are considered independent and separate. Specifically, for patients who wish to correct breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum while simultaneously wishing to make their nose more aesthetically pleasing, a septorhinoplasty is recommended. This procedure would essentially fix both the deviated septum as well as reshape the crooked shape of the nose common among those with deviated septums. Depending on the motive and necessity of the surgery, insurance may also cover this procedure.
Why Consult PROFILES Beverly Hills for a Septoplasty
Dr. Litner and Dr. Solieman of PROFILES Beverly Hills are both board certified, renowned surgeons serving patients in the Beverly Hills and greater Los Angeles area. They have each successfully treated hundreds of patients on their way to normalize their breathing. During your consultation appointment, our top-rated surgeons at PROFILES Beverly Hills will evaluate the necessity of a septoplasty and the possible advantages the procedure may pose on a personalized level. You can be assured that they have your best interest in mind, and can rest comfortably in their care, knowing that the surgeons of PROFILES Beverly Hills are among the leaders in the field. Contact us for a consultation!
Come in for a Consultation with Drs. Solieman and Litner
Call today for a consultation (310) 276-6800 or click here.