Deviated septum surgery, medically known as septoplasty, is a procedure performed to correct a deviated nasal septum – the cartilage and bone that divides the two nostrils. This surgery is often undertaken to improve breathing, alleviate nasal congestion, and correct any structural issues within the nose. The success rate of septoplasty can vary based on several factors, including the extent of the deviation, the surgical technique used, and individual patient factors.
- Success Rate:
- The success rate of septoplasty for improving nasal breathing and reducing symptoms of nasal obstruction is generally high, often reported to be between 70% to 90%.
- Success is typically measured by the improvement in airflow through the nose, relief from symptoms like nasal obstruction or congestion, and overall patient satisfaction.
- Factors Affecting Success Rate:
- Severity of Septal Deviation: More significant deviations may require more complex surgical corrections and can affect outcomes.
- Presence of Additional Nasal Issues: Coexisting conditions such as allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis can impact the overall improvement in nasal breathing and symptoms.
- Surgical Technique and Surgeon Experience: The surgeon’s expertise and the specific approach to septoplasty can influence the success of the procedure.
- Risks and Complications:
- Potential risks include bleeding, infection, a change in the shape of the nose, a hole in the septum (septal perforation), and persistent symptoms post-surgery.
- In some cases, patients might require a revision surgery if the initial septoplasty does not adequately correct the problem.
- Recovery and Rehabilitation:
- Recovery time varies but typically includes a few days of significant congestion and a few weeks of overall healing. Most patients return to normal activities within a week or two.
- Postoperative care, such as avoiding strenuous activities and following nasal care instructions, is important for successful healing.
- Long-Term Outcomes:
- Most patients experience long-term relief from symptoms and improved nasal breathing.
- Some patients may continue to have symptoms due to other nasal or sinus conditions.
- Patient Satisfaction:
- Patient satisfaction following septoplasty is generally high, especially among those who experience significant improvement in breathing and a reduction in nasal obstruction.
Patients considering septoplasty should have a detailed discussion with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or a facial plastic surgeon. This discussion should include an understanding of the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes based on their specific condition and overall health. It’s important for patients to have realistic expectations about the surgery and to understand that while septoplasty can significantly improve nasal breathing, it may not resolve all symptoms, especially if there are other contributing factors to nasal obstruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How successful is surgery for a deviated septum?
Surgery for a deviated septum is generally successful, with high rates of improvement in symptoms like nasal obstruction. Success rates vary but are often reported between 70% to 90%.
Is deviated septum surgery high risk?
Septoplasty is considered a relatively low-risk procedure. However, as with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Is deviated septum surgery worth it?
It can be worth it for individuals experiencing significant symptoms like difficulty breathing through the nose, recurrent sinus infections, or sleep disturbances. The decision should be based on the severity of symptoms and their impact on quality of life.
Can deviated septum surgery go wrong?
Complications can include bleeding, infection, a persistent deviated septum, a change in the shape of the nose, or a hole in the septum (septal perforation). These are relatively rare.
Why does my septum still look deviated after surgery?
This can occur if the initial correction was not sufficient, or due to post-surgical healing and scar tissue formation. Sometimes a revision surgery may be necessary.
Is deviated septum surgery life changing?
For many patients, especially those with significant breathing difficulties, the surgery can be life-changing in terms of improving sleep quality, reducing nasal congestion, and overall comfort.
Does deviated septum affect life expectancy?
A deviated septum typically does not directly affect life expectancy, but it can impact quality of life due to breathing difficulties or sleep disturbances.
Can a deviated septum grow back after surgery?
A deviated septum does not “grow back” after surgery, but post-surgical changes or incomplete correction can make it seem like the condition has returned.
Can you feel a deviated septum with your finger?
In some cases, a significant septal deviation might be felt with a finger inside the nostril, but this is not a reliable method for diagnosis.
What can be mistaken for a deviated septum?
Conditions like nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis, turbinate hypertrophy, or allergic rhinitis can mimic the symptoms of a deviated septum.
Why is one nostril always blocked?
This could be due to a deviated septum or other conditions like nasal cycle (normal periodic change in congestion), allergies, or structural issues in the nose.
Will fixing deviated septum stop snoring?
If snoring is due to a deviated septum causing airflow obstruction, then correcting it can help reduce or stop snoring. However, snoring can have multiple other causes as well.