Septal surgery (also known as septoplasty) is performed to straighten a deviated or crooked nasal septum.
Septal surgery is indicated when septal deviation is severe enough to cause nasal obstruction and affect breathing. Chronic nasal obstruction can contribute to headaches, sleep disorders such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, and impair normal breathing, forcing patients to breathe through the mouth and often affecting their daily activities. Septal surgery is often performed in conjunction with turbinate reduction surgery.
The main indications for septal surgery are:
- Nasal airway obstruction.
- Nasal septal deviation during endoscopic sinus surgery, preventing adequate visualization of the sinuses.
- Uncontrollable nosebleeds.
Goals:
The primary goal of septal surgery is to straighten the nasal septum, therefore relieving the obstruction and improving the breathing through the nose. Septal surgery may also reduce nasal drainage and post-nasal drip. Since septal surgery is performed to correct septal deviation and improve breathing, it can improve the patient's quality of life by decreasing headaches, snoring and sleep apnea.
Surgical Treatment:
- Septal surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
- Septal surgery is performed entirely through the nostrils; thus there are no incisions made on the skin.
- Through an incision made inside the nostril, the mucosa covering the septal bone and cartilage is lifted up to allow visualization of the bone and cartilage directly. The deviated portions of the bone and cartilage are then either removed or reshaped. The mucosa is then returned to its original position and the incision is stitched closed.
- After the septal surgery, once the effects of the anesthesia have worn off, the patient is discharged home.
Pre and Post-operative care:
During the initial consultation, Dr. Zadeh will examine you, study your CT Scan, if one is available, and discuss your medical history to determine whether you are a good candidate for septal surgery. Dr. Zadeh will explain the surgery and what you can expect and will answer any questions and/or concerns that you have.
Dr. Zadeh implements distinctive surgical approaches using the safest, most advanced, and minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Zadeh is focused on cutting-edge techniques and treatment options that offer his patients the greatest outcomes while minimizing risk.
If you are considering septal surgery, please contact Dr. Zadeh at Los Angeles Sinus Institute to schedule an initial consultation.
