Deviated septum surgery
Being able to participate in sports, exercise, sing in a choir or have a good night’s sleep all depend on the ability to breathe freely. This ability is taken for granted for those who enjoy a free flow of air on demand. For thousands of people, taking a free flowing deep breath is not possible due to a condition called a deviated septum. In fact, surgical correction of this defect is the third most common head and neck surgery in the United States today (according to Medscape).
What is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is surgery that addresses the septum – the dividing wall of cartilage and bone between the nostrils that directs airflow and supports the nose. When one nostril is smaller than the other, the balance of airflow is hindered. The surgical method of establishing airflow balance is called Septoplasty. Scottsdale surgeon Dr. Remus Repta is a board certified cosmetic plastic surgeon who has helped scores of people greatly improve their quality of life by restoring the fundamental ability to take a deep breath. He is delighted when one of his patients reports a regained ability to play a favorite sport or to simply sleep through the night.
What causes a deviated septum?
In many cases, a deviated septum is genetic, patients are born with the defect and may go for years without having it diagnosed, if ever. People are remarkably good at making allowances in their daily lives for breathing difficulties as long as they are not severe.
In other instances, trauma received during sports activities or through mischance can cause the nose to heal poorly, compromising the position of the septum. The septum is composed of cartilage in the front, changing to thin bone towards the back of the nose. It is easily damaged and the only way to repair it is through Septoplasty. Arizona is a very dry air climate, which can cause added stress on those with deviated septum. Regulating the moisture content of the air entering the lungs is another function of the nose. Patients with deviated septum often complain of dryness in the nostrils and may suffer more frequently from nosebleeds.
Am I a candidate for Septoplasty?
Some of the indications that a Septoplasty procedure might be in order are:
- Problematic snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic nosebleeds
- Chronic sinusitis
- Recurring headaches
- Restriction of physical activity
- Distinct difference in the size of the nostrils
Anyone with an airflow problem is potentially a candidate for Septoplasty surgery. The best way to determine if this procedure will achieve improved air flow is to schedule an examination with Dr. Repta. He can quickly assess the internal structure of the nose and provide his recommendations on how to address the problems associated with a deviated septum.
Those who suffer from serious conditions such as chronic sinusitis, headaches or sleep apnea should always investigate the possibility that the internal structure of the nose is the cause. While these disorders can have other causes, or related causes, a deviated septum may be a major contributing factor. If so, the good news is that Dr. Repta performs among the best Septoplasty Scottsdale has available. He has trained with world renowned surgeons throughout his long education journey and has brought these hard won skills to his local patients. There is no need to travel thousands of miles to enjoy world class medical treatment.
Rhinoplasty patients are checked for functional problems
Dr. Repta assesses the internal nasal structure of all of his Rhinoplasty patients as part of their preoperative medical exam. If he sees a need for Septoplasty being included in the overall surgical plan, he will incorporate this aspect to ensure quality of life issues are addressed.
There are a surprising number of people who compensate so well for restricted airflow that they don’t perceive it as unusual. Dr. Repta’s Scottsdale Septoplasty patients are often pleasantly surprised at the improved quality of life their procedure has provided. Not only are they now free of the emotional burden of a facial feature they dislike, they can now participate in activities they thought were out of reach.
How long will recovery take?
Septoplasty is done under a general anesthetic usually on an outpatient basis. If a hospital stay desired or recommended, patients are discharged the next day. Sometimes a hospital is desired if there isn’t an adult who can stay with the patient for the first 24 hours. Otherwise, patients are released into the care of an adult who must drive them home and stay with them for the first 24 hours to both help with things like preparing meals, getting pillows and cold packs, and ensuring medication is taken on time as well as a safety in the rare instance that further medical care is needed.
Pain is handled by the prescribed medication for the first few days and later by the recommended over-the-counter medications.
After care, including how to sleep, bathing, what to eat, medication timetable, physical activity etc., are all explained in the detailed postoperative instructions given to patients and their caregivers. Prior to surgery, these points will be verbally discussed so that any questions can be asked. Following surgery, should any questions arise, Dr. Repta is always available.
Patients will see swelling and possibly bruising around the eyes. This will feel tight and of course the nose will be blocked for a few days at least. If any packing was placed during surgery, it will be removed by Dr. Repta at the first postoperative visit.
A new lease on life
Patients report being able to run errands, go to restaurants and engage in other casual activities without incurring curious stares after the first 2 weeks. The swelling and bruising will be remarkably less by then, so much so that only a very observant close friend or family member would notice that surgery has been performed. It will be months before everything resolves as it is a relatively slow process, but this will be noticeable only to the patient.
Dr. Repta enjoys seeing the wonderful result of Septoplasty. Scottsdale patients report resurgence in many activities they had thought were out of their reach. Quality of life improvement is very high with this procedure; taking a deep breath is a fundamental basis of good health.
Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to know more about your Scottsdale plastic surgery options, request a consultation online. Or if you prefer, you are welcome to call the office at 855 DR REPTA and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.
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