Septoplasty Background

Septoplasty is a procedure that entails the correction of a deviated septum, which is the bone and cartilage in the middle of the nose separating the nostrils. A deviated septum can occur for various causes, though most of the time it is the result of a natural excess of bone or cartilage in the nose. Septoplasty is the surgical removal of the cartilage or bone surplus, which often times causes symptoms such as irregular or difficulty breathing and nose bleeds.

Septoplasty Surgery

Septoplasty is a type of rhinoplasty surgery that is often times done due to a deviated septum. Furthermore, a septoplasty procedure is also commonly done during other rhinoplasty surgeries, thus making it fairly common. Even though plastic surgery is a fairly new surgical field, septoplasty has its history dating back to the 1800's. Though the first septoplasty methods were somewhat primitive, the helped evolve the technique to what it is today.

Septoplasty Recovery

The septoplasty procedure will usually take about an hour on average. Most patients will be allowed to leave the hospital the same day, allowing for the septoplasty recovery to begin. The recovery period will largely focus on protecting the nasal area from any possible injury or harm, and will entail the constant changing of the nasal packing and/or gauze that is placed in the nasal cavity due to normal bleeding. This will continue for about one to two days. A follow-up appointment will usually be scheduled between seven to ten days after the surgery to check on how the procedure went and to remove any splints in place for structural support.