What Happens During Septoplasty Surgery

Have you been recommended for a septoplasty procedure? Understanding what happens during each stage of septoplasty surgery can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with undergoing nasal surgery.

Let's delve into the detailed steps of a septoplasty to give you a better insight into what to expect.

Pre-Operative Phase

Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with your ENT specialist to discuss the procedure and address any concerns you may have. They will explain the septoplasty process, including the risks and benefits.

You may also undergo some pre-operative tests to ensure you are fit for surgery.

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- Consultation with ENT specialist to discuss the procedure.

- Explanation of risks and benefits of septoplasty.

- Pre-operative tests to assess your overall health.

Anesthesia Administration

On the day of the surgery, you will be taken to the operating room where the anesthesia will be administered. Most septoplasty procedures are performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the surgery.

This ensures you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

Incision and Access

Once you are under anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision inside your nose to access the septum. The septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils.

The incision is usually made on one side of the septum, and the mucous membrane is lifted to expose the underlying structures.

Septum Realignment

The next step involves straightening or realigning the deviated septum. The surgeon will carefully reshape the septum by removing any excess cartilage or bone that is causing the obstruction.

This process aims to improve airflow through the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing and snoring.

Closure of Incision

Once the septum has been repositioned, the incision inside the nose is closed using dissolvable stitches. These stitches will eventually dissolve on their own, eliminating the need for removal.

The mucous membrane is then repositioned over the septum to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Post-Operative Care

After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be monitored closely as you wake up from anesthesia.

Your nose may be packed with gauze to control bleeding, and you may experience some discomfort or congestion. It is essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

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- Monitoring in the recovery room post-surgery.

- Gauze packing in the nose to control bleeding.

- Following post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.


Follow-Up Appointment

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled with your surgeon to assess your healing progress and remove any packing or splints from your nose.

It is crucial to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or issues you may have during the recovery period.


Conclusion

Understanding the step-by-step process of a septoplasty can help ease any apprehensions you may have about undergoing nasal surgery.

By knowing what to expect at each stage of the procedure, you can approach the surgery with confidence and a clearer understanding of how septoplasty works to improve your nasal breathing.

If you have been recommended for a septoplasty, remember to discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure you are well-informed and prepared for the surgical process.