Deviated Septum

Septum deviation is actually such a common and often subtle problem, that it is regularly misdiagnosed by medical professionals who aren’t specialized, and yet a deviated septum, even when slight, can lead to snoring, sleep apnea, sinusitis, and nosebleeds, trouble smelling as well as breathing issues.

The septum functions like a wall.  It is made of cartilage and bone that separates the right and left nostril in two chambers.  The septum also provides structural support to the nasal tip.  It is a crucial part of the nose’s overall function.  People are sometimes born with a deviated septum due to genetics or they may have been injured during childbirth.  The problem can also arise from a sports injury, hard blow to the face, or car accident.  No matter how it happens, a person with even a minor case may live an unnecessarily uncomfortable life when, in fact, most problems can be corrected in under an hour under general anesthesia.

A deviated septum requires Septoplasty.  It is a noninvasive procedure that rarely changes the outer appearance of the nose, though the techniques may be combined with rhinoplasty to enhance overall nasal aesthetics and functionality.  Essentially, the nose specialist will straighten the septum by removing or adding cartilage.  The incisions only need to be made inside the nose, meaning there is no external scarring from this procedure and carries much less risk of infection.

Generally, the procedure takes about 30 minutes and can be done while asleep or in a sedated state, referred to as “twilight sleep.”  Patients are back to normal within a week and soon enjoying the many benefits of their septum being repaired.  After surgery, patients will breathe better and often stop snoring — something that improves the lives of their spouses too!

To book an appointment with us or for more information regarding a deviated septum, contact us now.