Deviated Septum (Septoplasty)

Repair of a Deviated Septum (Septoplasty)

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated septum. The septum is the cartilage and bone that separates the two nasal passages. A deviated septum occurs when the septum is crooked or displaced, which can lead to breathing difficulties and other nasal problems.

During a septoplasty, the surgeon will make an incision inside the nose and lift the mucous membrane covering the septum. They will then reshape or reposition the septum, removing any excess cartilage or bone that is causing the deviation. In some cases, the surgeon may need to use grafts, taken from another part of the body, to support and stabilize the septum.

Septoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, and it is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. The surgery generally takes about one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

How Much Does a Septoplasty Cost?

The cost of a septoplasty can vary depending on several factors, such as the geographical location, the surgeon’s experience, the complexity of the procedure, and the specific healthcare facility. On average, the cost of a septoplasty in the United States ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room charges, and any post-operative care. It is important to consult with your surgeon and insurance provider to get a more accurate estimate of the cost based on your individual circumstances.

Septoplasty Surgery Procedures

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated septum, which is the cartilage and bone that separates the nasal passages. The surgery begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. The surgeon then makes an incision inside the nose to access the septum. The mucous membrane covering the septum is lifted, allowing the surgeon to reshape or reposition the septum to a more central position. Excess cartilage or bone causing the deviation may be removed, and in some cases, grafts may be used to support the septum. After the necessary adjustments are made, the incision is closed, and the procedure is completed. Recovery typically involves nasal congestion, swelling, and some discomfort, but these symptoms gradually improve over time. Following the surgeon’s instructions regarding post-operative care is crucial for optimal healing and to achieve the desired results.

Septoplasty Can Help with Breathing Problems

Septoplasty is primarily performed to address breathing problems caused by a deviated septum. When the septum is crooked or displaced, it can obstruct the nasal passages, leading to difficulties in breathing through the nose. This can result in symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion, snoring, sleep apnea, and reduced airflow. By straightening and repositioning the septum, septoplasty aims to improve airflow and alleviate breathing problems, allowing for better nasal function and increased comfort during breathing. However, it’s important to note that septoplasty is not intended to address other nasal issues like allergies or sinus infections, which may require additional treatment or management.

Is it Easy to Perform Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that requires specialized training and expertise. While it is a routine procedure for qualified surgeons, it should not be considered “easy” in the sense that it can be performed without the necessary knowledge and skill.

The surgeon must have a thorough understanding of nasal anatomy and the techniques involved in reshaping and repositioning the septum. They need to carefully assess the deviation and plan the surgical approach accordingly. Septoplasty also requires precision and attention to detail to ensure optimal results and minimize potential complications.

Moreover, the difficulty of septoplasty can vary depending on the complexity of the individual case. Some septal deviations may be straightforward to correct, while others may involve more intricate adjustments or require additional procedures such as cartilage grafting.