Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a procedure used to improve nasal blockage symptoms. The nose is part of the face vulnerable to trauma and this can result in septal deviation requiring surgical correction.  The septum may also simply develop with a natural deviation that causes symptoms. Symptoms of a septal deviation include nasal blockage, nosebleeds and snoring.

Your nasal symptoms will be assessed in clinic through history and nasal examination. Airflow through the nose can be assessed and the septum can be inspected using a headlight or occasionally with an endoscope which allows assessment of the rest of the nasal cavity structures including turbinates and sinus openings. Conditions including nasal polyposis and allergic/non-allergic rhinitis can be identified if present and treated to try and improve symptoms without surgery. 

Septoplasty is performed as day case operation under general anaesthetic. Internal splints are commonly used after surgery to reduce the risk of adhesion/scar formation inside the nose. These are removed one week after surgery in the outpatient clinic. Your nose will feel blocked after the surgery but this improves with time.  Your nose is vulnerable to injury for 4-6 weeks after surgery and contact sports should be avoided.