Septoplasty

What is a septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition in which the wall dividing the nostrils (the septum) is displaced or bent to one side. The goal of the surgery is to straighten the septum, improve breathing, and alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and frequent sinus infections. The procedure is performed using general anaesthesia, and typically involves making incisions in the septum to reposition or remove parts of the deviated tissue.

What are the risks of a septoplasty?

While it is generally considered a safe procedure, like any surgery, it does come with potential risks. Mr Farnan will take every possible care, and use all his experience to reduce the risk of a complication. Even in the best of hands however, it is not possible to eliminate all the risks associated with surgery.

Some possible risks of septoplasty include:

Bleeding: Bleeding during or after surgery is a common risk with any surgery. However, in rare cases, it can be severe and require additional treatment, such as packing the nose, return to the operating theatre, or even a blood transfusion.

Infection: Although uncommon, infections can occur after surgery. Signs of an infection include fever, increased pain, redness, or pus draining from the surgical site.

Changes in nasal shape: Occasionally, septoplasty can alter the shape of the nose. This can occur because the septum provides support to area just above the nasal tip. Mr Farnan will take great care to maintain support in the supratip area. In the unusual event of an unsatisfactory change in the shape of the nose, Mr Farnan will discuss the options available for correction

Scarring: Septoplasty involves incisions inside the nose, and while the scars are typically minimal, in rare cases, they can be more noticeable or cause breathing problems.

Loss of smell: A temporary loss of smell is possible after septoplasty, although it is rare.

It's important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before undergoing septoplasty or any surgical procedure. Mr Farnan can provide more detailed information about the risks specific to your individual case.

What is the recovery period like after septoplasty?

Recovery after a septoplasty can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. However, in general, the following is what you can expect:

Immediately after surgery: You will be taken to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and watch for any complications. You may experience some pain and discomfort, and your nose may be packed to control bleeding. Mr Farnan uses gel covered balloon packs which are much more comfortable and more easily removed than traditional types of nasal pack.

Discharge: Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be able to go home the same day or you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. You will be provided with specific instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments.

Pain and discomfort: You may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort for the first few days after surgery. The pain is usually mild to moderate, but some patients experience moderate to severe pain for a few days during the first week of recovery. You will be prescribed simple painkillers to make you more comfortable during the recovery period.

Nasal congestion: Your nose will be congested and you will have difficulty breathing through your nose for the first week or so after surgery. This is normal and is due to the swelling and packing inside your nose. Mr Farnan frequently uses splints, which are strips of plastic that are stitched to either side of the nasal septum. Splints are removed in the outpatient clinic 1-2 weeks after the operation.

Activity restrictions: Mr Farnan recommends that you avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending down for at least a week after surgery. Nose blowing should be avoided until the splints have been removed. Light aerobic activity can be resumed after 2 weeks if the pain and swelling has subsided. Contact sports should be avoided until 6 weeks after the operation.

Follow-up appointments: Mr Farnan’s patients are reviewed in the outpatient clinic 5-10 days post-op. If you have not received an appointment in this time please contact the hospital to arrange a review

Full recovery: It can take several weeks to fully recover from a septoplasty. During this time, you should avoid smoking, or exposing your nose to irritants such as dust or strong odours.

It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and avoid any complications.

How long will I be off work after a septoplasty?

Mr Farnan recommends taking 2 weeks off work after a septoplasty