Definition of Septoplasty:

Septoplasty is surgery to correct any problems in the nasal septum, the wall inside the nose that separates the nostrils.

See also: Rhinoplasty

Description:

Most patients receive general anesthesia before septoplasty. This will make you asleep and pain-free. Some people have the surgery under local anesthesia, which numbs the area to block pain. You will stay awake if you have local anesthesia. Surgery takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours. Patients usually go home the same day.

Your surgeon will make a cut inside the wall on one side of your nose.

• The mucus membrane that covers the wall will be lifted up.
• Then your surgeon will remove or move any cartilage or bone that is causing the blockage in the area.
• After this, your surgeon will put the mucus membrane back in place. This membrane will be held in place by stitches, splints, or packing material.

Why the Procedure Is Performed:

The main reasons for this surgery are:

• To repair a crooked, bent, or deformed nasal septum that blocks the airway in your nose. People with this condition usually breathe through their mouth and may be more likely to get nasal or sinus infections.
• If you are having uncontrollable nosebleeds
• To repair a hole in the nasal septum. This is called nasal perforation.

People who snort large amounts of cocaine or other drugs over long periods of time may need septoplasty. Snorting drugs can damage the septum.