Nasal Correction Procedure: Septoplasty Surgery Steps

Have you been advised to undergo a septoplasty procedure to correct a deviated septum? Understanding what happens during this surgical process can help alleviate any anxiety or uncertainty you may have.

In this guide, we will walk you through the septoplasty procedure steps, giving you a clear overview of what to expect during nasal correction surgery.

Preparing for Septoplasty Surgery

Before the actual septoplasty surgery takes place, you will need to undergo a pre-operative evaluation with your healthcare provider.

This evaluation may include a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly some diagnostic tests such as a nasal endoscopy or imaging studies to assess the extent of the septal deviation.

Your healthcare provider will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions, which may include fasting before the surgery, avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding risk, and arranging for someone to drive you home post-surgery.

It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful surgical process for septum correction.

Anesthesia and Incision

During the septoplasty procedure, you will be placed under anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery. Typically, general anesthesia is used for septoplasty surgery, meaning you will be completely unconscious during the procedure.

Once you are under anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision inside your nose to access the deviated septum. This incision is usually made on one side of the nasal septum, where it is not visible externally.

The surgeon will then gently lift the mucous membrane covering the septum to expose the cartilage and bone underneath.

Correcting the Deviated Septum

The next step in the septoplasty procedure involves reshaping or removing the deviated portions of the septum to improve airflow through the nasal passages. This may include straightening the septum, reducing any septal spurs or bumps, or repositioning displaced cartilage.

  • The surgeon may use specialized surgical instruments such as forceps, scissors, or a microdebrider to carefully trim or reposition the septal tissues.
  • In some cases, the surgeon may need to remove a portion of the septum entirely to achieve the desired correction and improve nasal function.

Closing the Incision

Once the necessary corrections have been made to the deviated septum, the surgeon will carefully reposition the mucous membrane back over the septum and close the incision with dissolvable sutures.

These sutures will gradually dissolve on their own, eliminating the need for suture removal during the post-operative period.

After closing the incision, the surgeon may place nasal splints or packing inside the nose to support the septum as it heals and to help maintain the newly created nasal airway.

These splints are typically removed within a week following the surgery.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Following the septoplasty surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of the anesthesia wear off.

Your healthcare team will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions, which may include recommendations for pain management, nasal hygiene, and activity restrictions during the initial recovery period.

  • It is essential to follow these instructions closely to promote optimal healing and prevent complications during the recovery process.
  • You may experience some mild discomfort, nasal congestion, or drainage in the days following the surgery, but these symptoms typically subside as you recover.

It is crucial to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Your healthcare team will guide you through the post-operative recovery process and provide you with the support you need to achieve the best possible outcome from your septoplasty surgery.

Understanding the septoplasty procedure steps can help you feel more informed and prepared for your upcoming nasal correction surgery.

By knowing what to expect during each stage of the surgical process, you can approach your septoplasty with confidence and a clear understanding of the benefits it can offer in improving your nasal function and overall quality of life.

If you have any questions or concerns about the septoplasty procedure, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.