Septoplasty involves a surgical procedure within the nasal cavity to correct a crooked septum.
The septum, measuring approximately 7 centimetres in length in adults, is made up of cartilage and bone and divides the nasal cavity into two separate chambers, or nostrils. A septum that is crooked or bent is referred to as a deviated septum.
This condition can obstruct one or both nostrils and disrupt the flow of air. A septum may become deviated due to an injury, or it may be present from birth.
Is septoplasty a major operation?
No, septoplasty is considered a minor, low-risk operation. Recovery typically takes a few days and necessitates about a week off from work or other activities. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with septoplasty, including bleeding, infection, and temporary numbness.
Septoplasty is typically done as an outpatient procedure, allowing individuals to return home the same day as their surgery. In the majority of instances, a medical professional will administer general anaesthesia, ensuring you are unconscious throughout the procedure. Alternatively, local anaesthesia, which numbs the specific area being operated on, could be chosen.
The process occurs completely within the nasal cavity. The doctor makes an opening (incision) on one side of the nose and elevates the mucosa (a thin layer that envelops and safeguards the septum). This enables the doctor to modify the bone and cartilage of the septum. Occasionally, the doctor will excise segments of the bone and cartilage, then adjust and relocate the nasal structures beneath. Following this, the mucosa is placed back over the septum. Your nose remains intact throughout the procedure. The surgery typically lasts between 30 to 90 minutes.
Following the procedure, your doctor might place splints or soft materials to secure the nasal tissue, stop nosebleeds, and lower the chance of forming scar tissue. Typically, these splints remain in position for a week. Occasionally, your doctor may only use stitches that dissolve on their own over time.
After undergoing a septoplasty, you might experience a range of discomfort levels, from mild to moderate. A lot of individuals describe the sensation as similar to having a sinus infection, characterized by discomfort and pressure around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks, as well as the upper teeth. These symptoms are typical and usually subside within a couple of days.
Following your septoplasty, your healthcare team will monitor you closely as the effects of anaesthesia subside.
Once you’re conscious and in good condition, you’ll be cleared to return home.
Your surgeon will provide you with a set of guidelines for aftercare, designed to assist you in dealing with discomfort, bleeding, and swelling post-septoplasty.
It’s important to steer clear of strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects while you recover. This is to prevent a rise in your heart rate and blood pressure, which could exacerbate bleeding, pain, and swelling.
Your surgeon will inform you when it’s appropriate to go back to your regular activities.
The initial recovery period for a septoplasty typically spans one week or less. However, the complete healing of the bone and cartilage can take anywhere from several months to up to a year.
The recovery period for septoplasty typically lasts for a week. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions for what to do after the surgery, and it’s important to adhere to these guidelines carefully.
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