|  | Surgeries Operations | Surgeries

Procedure for Fixing a Deviated Septum

Approximately 80 percent of people have a deviated septum, according to the Mayo Clinic. In many cases, it is not severe enough to warrant surgery and can be managed with medication. For severe cases, a septoplasty may be performed to repair the septum.

  1. The Septum

    • The septum is a thin wall in the nose that separates the left and right nasal cavity. Ideally, it is perfectly centered, separating each side equally. A deviated septum is off to one side.

    The Procedure

    • During a septoplasty, the nose is cut open and the septum is repositioned. This can sometimes require the surgeon to remove parts of the septum before aligning it.

    After the Procedure

    • A septoplasty is a same-day surgery. In most cases, the surgeon will pack the nose with cotton material to prevent nosebleeds. It is usually removed 24 to 36 hours after the surgery.

    Complications

    • Possible complications include skin discoloration, scarring, uneven nose appearance, excessive bleeding and fluid buildup in the nose. In some cases, the septum resets itself and requires additional surgery.

    Prognosis

    • A septoplasty can often completely cure nasal obstructions and nosebleeds. However it cannot cure sinus conditions such as nasal congestion or allergies. These will still need to be managed with medication.

Surgeries - Related Articles