Septoplasty Surgery in Burbank, CA, and San Diego, CA
Can Septoplasty Surgery Help You?
The septum is the part of the nose that separates the right and left sides. Made of cartilage and bone, this part is meant to be exactly in the middle of the nose, providing support for the nasal structure and helping define the tip. While most people have nasal septums that are at least slightly off-center, some people have nasal septums that are severely crooked. This is a condition known as a deviated septum. Discover how septoplasty from SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers in Burbank, CA and San Diego, CA can help with this issue. The Burbank and San Diego septoplasty specialists at SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers can help! You can contact us to get answers to your questions about septoplasty surgery, recovery, and more.
What Is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty surgery, also known as deviated septum surgery, is a procedure that can correct deviations. This procedure can help patients avoid a number of health concerns associated with deviated septums, including:
- Breathing problems
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Postnasal drip
- Sinus pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Snoring
Causes of a Deviated Septum
Some people have deviated septums from birth, while others get them later in life. A prenatal injury or stress that occurs during childbirth can result in a deviated septum. This condition can also be caused by damage to the septum during a fall, sports injury, or other type of accident.
What Happens During Septoplasty?
If your doctor determines that your deviated septum is severe enough for septoplasty, you’ll start by learning about the procedure and telling your doctor what medications you are currently taking and if you have any bleeding problems or allergies. This will allow your doctor to determine if any adjustments need to be made to your routine or the procedure to accommodate your needs.
Usually, septoplasty is an outpatient procedure that only takes one to two hours and allows patients to return home the same day. On the day of your procedure, you will be placed under general or local anesthesia to either keep you asleep or keep your nasal area numb during surgery. The surgeon will make an incision on one side of your nose to access and lift the mucous membrane covering the septum. Then they will reshape the cartilage and bone, reposition the mucous membrane, and use splints or soft packing to protect the nasal tissue as it heals.
What To Expect From Septoplasty Recovery
Immediately following the procedure, you will move to a recovery room where you will be monitored until the anesthesia wears off and you are ready to be accompanied home. You should plan to have an adult stay with you for at least 24 hours to make sure there are no complications. Your doctor may provide you with pain medication as well as postoperative instructions to follow to help you manage your pain and make sure you heal properly. It is best to avoid exercise and other strenuous activity for a few weeks following your procedure. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to resume your regular activities.
Risks of Septoplasty
There are always risks associated with surgery. When it comes to septoplasty, some of the risks include:
- Change in nose shape
- Decreased smelling ability
- Excessive bleeding
- Fluid build-up
- Scarring
Choosing the right surgical team and following all postoperative care instructions are the best ways to avoid these risks and enjoy successful results.
Septoplasty at Socal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers
Are you ready to get relief from pain and other issues associated with a deviated septum? The Burbank and San Diego septoplasty specialists at SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers can help! You can contact us to get answers to your questions about septoplasty surgery, recovery, and more.