The Details to Emphasize About Deviated Nasal Septum Surgery
Deviated nasal septum is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. This condition occurs when the nasal septum, the cartilage, and the bone that divides the nose into two separate chambers are crooked or off-center. This can cause difficulty breathing and lead to other health issues such as headaches, sleep apnea, and nosebleeds.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a deviated nasal septum, such as difficulty breathing through your nose or frequent nosebleeds, you may want to consider surgery. In this article, we will discuss the procedure and benefits of a deviated nasal septum surgery and the risks and complications associated with the nose septum surgery.
Know What Deviated Nasal Septum Is
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the nasal septum is not centered between the two nostrils. Various factors, such as genetics, injury, or trauma to the nose, can cause this. In most cases, a deviated nasal septum does not cause any symptoms, but in some cases, it can cause breathing difficulties, congestion, and other issues.
The Way to Diagnosis
To diagnose a deviated nasal septum, your doctor will perform a physical examination of your nose and may use a small, handheld instrument called a nasal speculum to look inside your nostrils. They may also order imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to get a better look at the nasal septum and other structures in the nose.
Preparation for Nose Septum Surgery
Before undergoing a deviated nasal septum surgery, you must prepare for the procedure. This may include stopping certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and other substances that can interfere with the healing process.
Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on preparing for the nose septum surgery, including when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.
Paying Attention to the Surgical Procedure
Deviated nasal septum surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. The surgery typically takes one to two hours to complete and may be performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
During the surgery, your surgeon will make an incision in the lining of your nose to access the nasal septum. They will then carefully reshape or remove parts of the septum to correct its position and improve breathing.
After the surgery, you must rest a few hours before being discharged from the hospital or clinic. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort, and you must keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
You may also experience some bleeding or drainage from your nose for the first few days after surgery, which is normal. Your doctor will provide instructions on caring for your nose during recovery, such as avoid blowing your nose and keeping your nasal passages moist.
Surgery Results
Nose septum surgery can improve breathing and reduce other symptoms associated with the condition. In many cases, patients experience a significant improvement in their ability to breathe through their nose and experience fewer nosebleeds and sinus infections.
However, it is essential to note that the surgery results can vary depending on the severity of the deviation and other factors. Some patients may require additional surgeries or treatments to achieve the desired results.
Benefits of the Surgery
There are several benefits to undergoing a nose septum surgery, including:
Improved breathing: The primary use of the surgery is improved breathing, which can lead to a better quality of life
Reduced sinus infections: A deviated septum can make it difficult for mucus to drain properly from the sinuses, leading to infections. Correcting the deviation can help reduce the frequency of sinus infections.
Decreased snoring: A deviated septum can also contribute to snoring, and correcting the deviation can help reduce snoring and improve sleep quality.
Improved sense of smell: A deviated septum can affect the sense of smell, and correcting the deviation can improve the ability to smell.
Increased energy: Improved breathing can increase oxygen flow, increase energy levels, and reduce fatigue.
Risks or Complications
Like any surgery, deviated nasal septum surgery carries risks and potential complications. These can include:
Bleeding: The surgery can cause some bleeding during and after the procedure.
Infection: There is a risk of infection following the surgery, which can be treated with antibiotics.
Scarring: Some scarring may occur following the surgery, but this is usually minimal.
Changes in the shape of the nose: In some cases, the surgery can cause changes in the shape of the nose, although this is rare.
Nasal obstruction: In some cases, the surgery can cause a temporary or permanent blockage in the nasal passages.
Call for Professionals
Deviated nasal septum surgery can be a highly effective treatment option for those experiencing breathing difficulties, congestion, and other symptoms associated with a deviated septum. The surgery is safe and generally well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their ability to breathe and reduced symptoms.
However, like any surgery, there are risks and potential complications associated with the procedure and it is essential to discuss these with your doctor before making a decision. Book your schedule at Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, LLC, to get your deviated nasal septum diagnosed and operated by experts.
**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.