FUNCTIONAL NOSE SURGERY
PROCEDURE
What is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a functional nose surgery that aims to reshape the nasal septum, the cartilage and bone wall separating the two nasal passages or nostrils. This operation is usually performed for patients with a deviated septum and nasal blockage. A deviated septum is when the septum is bent or displaced, causing one nasal passage to be smaller than the other.
It’s estimated that up to 80% of the population has a deviated septum, but for most, it causes no symptoms. However, for others, it can cause breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, and affect sleep quality.
A deviated septum can be a congenital deformity, which means it is present from birth. However, it is often the result of trauma or injury. During a septoplasty, Annakan will typically make incisions inside the nose, known as a closed procedure. He will then address the bone and cartilage that compose the septum and restructure and realign the nasal septum in the midline.
Annakan wrote an editorial article in the British Medical Journal on the benefits of septoplasty for treating nasal obstruction which was widely read in the medical community.
Mr Annakan Navaratnam explains:
Nasal septoplasty for deviated nasal septum
An open technique may be required in some cases, and an incision is made on the columella between the nostrils. This may be required for patients who need more extensive septal trimming or other alterations in a procedure known as septorhinoplasty.
In an open septoplasty, Mr Navaratnam can lift the nose skin to trim or manipulate the nasal septum. Pieces of septal cartilage and bone may need to be removed. Dissolvable stitches are typically used, and it may be necessary to put internal splints inside the nose to stop the septum from moving while it heals.
Successful surgery will improve nasal breathing but may not eliminate other symptoms associated with nasal conditions such as allergic rhinitis or sinusitis. These conditions often need ongoing medical treatment in the form of topical nasal medication. A nasal septoplasty may help facilitate delivery of medication for these conditions.
Benefits of a septoplasty
Septoplasty surgery has several benefits and is typically considered a safe and effective procedure.
Improved breathing: usually the most noticeable benefit for patients is improved breathing through the nose.
Reduced snoring: a deviated septum is often the cause of snoring, and a septoplasty can lessen or even eliminate snoring and loud breathing while sleeping. This, in turn, leads to better sleep quality.
Cosmetic improvement: a septoplasty is a functional surgical procedure, but it may also improve the external appearance of the nose.
Improved delivery of medication for other nasal conditions such allergic rhinitis.
At a glance
Surgery time
1 – 2 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Time off work
2 weeks
Hospital stay
Day Case
Shower
After 1 day
Reasonable mobility
After 2 days
Exercise
After 2 weeks
Sleeping on back
4 weeks
Full recovery
6 weeks
Driving
5 days
What to expect
Here you will find some essential information to help you prepare for surgery and the arrangements you should make to ensure you have the support you need and that everything runs smoothly on the day. However, we are on hand to answer any questions you may have.
01. The consultation
The first stage is always a comprehensive consultation and pre-operative assessment with your septoplasty surgeon Mr Annakan Navaratnam.
During the consultation, he will listen carefully to your concerns and desired outcomes, and recommend whether surgery is appropriate at this time. The potential risks, post-surgery expectations, and recovery details of the specific procedure will also be discussed. A detailed medical history will be obtained to ensure your fitness for surgery.
Examination of the nose will be performed during the consultation to assess the nasal structures and to evaluate for any presence of nasal disease. This will often involve a procedure called nasoendoscopy to examine the underlying nasal anatomy.
Something investigations in the form of imaging such as a CT scan may be required as part of the assessment to help guide treatment. Pre-operative photographs are always necessary prior to rhinoplasty surgery and aid in the consultation process. These are taken during the consultation.
A two-week reflection period follows the initial consultation, during which you can return for additional consultations free of charge.
02. Preparing for surgery
If you decide to proceed, you’ll receive guidance on preparing for surgery. Pre-surgery tests may be required.
Mr Navaratnam will advise you on stopping smoking as far in advance of surgery as possible due to its impact on healing, infection risks, and complications during anaesthesia. Guidance on discontinuing blood-thinning medication and fasting before surgery will be provided.
03. Day of the procedure
Upon arrival at hospital, you’ll be escorted to a private room, and vital signs will be assessed. Your surgeon will finalise markings, and the anaesthetist will visit you. Clinical photography will document the pre-op and post-op phases.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, followed by recovery in a specialist recovery room. Septoplasty surgery can be performed as a day case so once you have recovered sufficiently you will be discharged into the care of a friend or family member.
04. Your recovery
Post-surgery pain varies for each individual, but most patients find it minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. It typically subsides within the first week or so along with any bruising.
A comprehensive recovery guide, including follow-up appointment dates. Our team will be on hand if you have any concerns.