Deviated Nose ( Septosplasty)

Deviated Nose (Septoplasty) is an operation to correct a deformity of the nasal septum. The usual purpose is to improve nasal breathing, but it may also be performed to allow adequate examination of the inside of the nose for treatment of polyps, inflammation, tumors, or bleeding. When the nasal septum is deformed, there is no medicine that will cause it to be straightened, so surgery is the only solution to this problem.

A small incision is made inside the nose. The mucosal lining of the septum is detached from the cartilage and bones of the septum. The deviated portions of the septum are removed or straightened. The nasal lining mucous membrane is replaced.

Duration of the operation:

Septoplasty surgery to straighten the septum or remove the obstructing anatomy takes about an hour of operation.

Post operative Care:

Splints or packs are placed in the nose for a few days to help the septum to heal into its new position. These splints / packs have a straw that allows the patient to breathe from the nose and makes swallowing much easier. There are no external bruises or swelling of the eyes because the outer nasal bones are not broken or interfered with as in cosmetic nasal surgery. If an antibiotic is prescribed then it should be strictly followed to prevent infection.  Saline irrigation of the nasal cavity helps in speeding up healing process.

Recovery period:

The septoplasty recovery time normally ranges from one week to three weeks. Patient is advised to blow his nose only after a day or two and that too very gently. Only after a week or two are patients asked to blow their nose normally.

Results:

We guarantee quality service and satisfying results of the operation but in cases of surgical corrections, patient can assure a free of charge revision.

Please see before and after photos of Dr.Juta’s patients in the Photo Gallery (photographs showed are with patient’s consent).

Possible risk and complications:

The undesirable results that may occur include: a hole in the septum, failure to completely improve breathing, bleeding (usually easy to control), wound infection, nasal crusting, and very rarely, a change in appearance. . There are risks with all surgical procedures. You should discuss all risks with your cosmetic surgeon.

Anesthesia used:

The procedure is performed with local, IV sedation or general anesthesia.

Hospital admission:

The patient can be discharge from the hospital on the same day of the surgery.

Preparation before Surgery:

• Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
• Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
• You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
• Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.