Solution to a stuffy nose: Learn about septoplasty surgery

Do you also have a stuffy nose all the time? Do you feel like you have difficulty breathing on one side? Sometimes you think it's just a cold, but if it persists, the cause may be something else. That is the stretching of the wall between your nostrils. Today, we will talk about the treatment for this, which is septoplasty . Don't be scared when you hear this, let's explain everything simply.

What is Deviated Septum and Septoplasty?

Simply put, the septum is the wall made of cartilage and bone that separates your nostrils. A deviated septum is when this wall is not straight and is pulled to one side.

In fact, most people's nasal walls are not 100 percent straight. It's normal to have a little bit of a curve. But if there's a little bit of a curve, it can block one or both of your nostrils and make it difficult to breathe . For some people, this is something they're born with. For others, it can be caused by an accident to their nose.

Even if your nasal septum is pulled, if it's not causing you any difficulty breathing or if you don't get frequent sinus infections ( sinusitis ), it's probably nothing to worry about. You can talk to your doctor about other treatments that don't require surgery.

Because when the nose is blocked like this, it creates a good environment for bacteria to grow inside. This can lead to painful infections that can persist without healing. In that case, surgery may be a good solution to this condition.

The difference between Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty

Although both are surgeries performed on the nose, they serve two purposes. Rhinoplasty is a surgery that changes the external appearance of the nose, that is, the shape of the nose. A person may undergo this surgery after an accident, due to a congenital problem, or for cosmetic reasons. Sometimes both these surgeries, that is, septoplasty and rhinoplasty, can be performed at the same time.

How do we prepare before surgery?

Before the surgery, you will definitely need to meet with the surgeon. The doctor will discuss the surgery with you and examine you. During this appointment, the following things may happen:

• Asking about your medical history: This is where you talk about the medications you are taking and other illnesses you have.
• Physical examination : The inside and outside of the nose are carefully examined.
• Other tests: You may be asked to do things like blood tests before surgery.
• Nose photography: Photos will be taken to compare before and after surgery.
• Talking about your expectations: It is very important to clearly discuss what can and cannot be done with this surgery.

While preparing for surgery, you should avoid taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin , as they can increase bleeding. If you smoke, it is essential to quit before surgery. Follow your doctor's instructions for everything else.

What happens during the surgery?

This surgery is usually performed by an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT specialist). On the day of the surgery, you will be given anesthesia. You and your doctor will decide together whether it will be local anesthesia (you will be awake) or general anesthesia (you will be asleep). This surgery usually takes about an hour and a half.

Most of the time, the surgeon doesn't need to cut the skin on your face in a way that's visible from the outside. They perform the surgery by inserting instruments inside your nostrils. This means there are no visible scars or stitches on your face after the surgery.

To repair your deviated septum, your doctor may either completely remove the damaged parts of the septum, or they may repair and reattach them. Sometimes, the nasal bone may need to be cut and repositioned. After surgery , silicone splints may be inserted to support the septum.

Your doctor may decide to place a nasal packing, such as gauze, inside your nose to absorb any blood or other fluids. This will be removed on your first visit after surgery.

After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room where you will be monitored by healthcare staff. This is often an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day once your condition is stable. However, you will need someone to drive you home.

What are the benefits and risks of surgery?

The main benefit you will get after your surgery is the ease of breathing. Let's take a look at the benefits and possible risks of this surgery.

These risks are very small, but it is important to discuss this with your doctor before surgery.

Side effects that may occur after surgery

After the surgery, your nose or teeth may feel numb. But don't worry, this is usually temporary. This will go away in a few months. You may also experience a change in your sense of smell. This condition is called hyposmia . This also usually resolves after about 6 months.

A common complaint from some people is, "I didn't breathe as easily as I thought I would." That's why it's so important to be clear with your doctor about your expectations before surgery.

Recovery time after surgery

There are a few things you need to keep in mind after you get home, and for a few weeks after surgery:

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
• Keep your head elevated while sleeping. You can use an extra pillow for this.
• Avoid blowing your nose. This is very important.

Before you go home, ask for written instructions on how to care for your nose and what medications to use. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions exactly to avoid complications.