NOSE & SINUS
Septoplasty
Septoplasty is performed to straighten a deviated nasal septum. Traditionally, this procedure is done in an ambulatory surgical center or hospital. With improved instrumentation, it is now commonly performed in the office setting.
The procedure typically involves a hidden incision inside the nostril. The mucosa of the septum is elevated from the bone and cartilage. The bone and cartilage is then straightened and the mucosa is returned to it.
Sometimes, the deviation is so severe that an ‘open septoplasty’ is recommended. This procedure involves an incision along the bottom of the nose so that the very edge of the septum and the part of the septum supporting the framework of the nose can be corrected. These procedures can take a bit longer than the traditional septoplasty. The scar made by the incision typically heals extremely well, and is virtually invisible within three to four weeks of the surgery.
Correction of the deviated septum is often performed when needed at the same time as other nasal procedures such as balloon sinuplasty and turbinate reduction.