Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to straighten or correct the shape of the cartilage between the two nostrils (septum). This procedure is necessary because the shape of the septum that is not straight can block one side of the nose, so that airflow is also disrupted.
Operation septoplasty done to correct a crooked septum (septal deviation) by cutting the crooked part, then rearranging the position of the septum piece to be straight. That way, the septum is right in the middle of the nose and the airways of both nostrils can be opened again.
Procedure Septoplasty
Before performing this procedure, the doctor will start by examining the inside of the nose, usually by performing a nasal endoscopy. You will be made a surgery schedule septoplasty if the doctor assesses your condition does require surgery and you agree to have surgery.
At the time of surgery, the doctor will first give you an anesthetic. Anesthesia can be either local or general anesthesia. After that, the doctor will make an incision on one side of your nose to remove the mucous membrane (mucosa) that protects the septum.
Next, the doctor will change the shape of the bent septum. The doctor may cut off some of the bone or excess cartilage to allow the septum to be centered. After that, the doctor will close the septum again with a mucous membrane.
You may need stitches, but usually a bandage is enough to keep the septum and mucous membranes in position. Usually a surgical procedure septoplasty only takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the nasal condition of each patient.
Side Effects and Risks Septoplasty
Generally septoplasty does not cause significant side effects. However, as with other surgical procedures, surgery septoplasty still have risks, such as:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- anesthetic allergy
- Nose color change
- Scar tissue formation
- There is a tear or hole in the septum
- Decreased sense of smell
After operation septoplasty Once done, usually you are immediately allowed to go home. To reduce the risk of postoperative side effects, there are several things you need to do, namely:
- Avoid strenuous activity.
- Avoid blowing your nose for at least 3 days after surgery septoplasty.
- Elevate your head while sleeping using stacked pillows.
- Make sure you understand the doctor's instructions regarding the care and treatment of the nose after surgery septoplasty.
Preparations That Can Be Done Before The Procedure Septoplasty
There are several things you need to prepare before surgery septoplasty, among others:
- Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners
- Make sure the doctor knows all of your medical history, such as if there is a history of bleeding or drug allergies
- If the operation uses general anesthesia, avoid eating or drinking after midnight the day before the surgery.
- Ask a family member or friend to accompany you during the operation and drive you home after the operation.
Operation septoplasty not only to improve appearance. In some cases, the curvature of the septum can cause complaints that are quite disturbing and reduce a person's quality of life, such as repeated nosebleeds or sleep disturbances.
Therefore, if you feel your nose condition requires surgery septoplasty, do not hesitate to consult a plastic surgeon regarding this. That way, your doctor can provide advice and treatment that best suits your condition.
