Nasal septum correction (septoplasty) is an operative procedure for straightening a crooked nasal septum. Such nasal septum distortion occurs very frequently and in many cases results in obstructed nasal breathing and snoring. The curvature could be externally visible through, for example, different sized nostrils. A nasal septum correction essentially corrects the septum running inside the nose, but can also remedy the externally visible curvature of the septum.
A septoplasty is therefore not a purely cosmetic operation, but is performed for medical reasons.
To rule out other causes of respiratory problems, an ENT specialist must diagnose the definite curvature of the nasal septum. The nasal septum may have a variety of deformations. For this reason, there are various techniques of nasal septal correction. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Through a small incision in the area of the anterior nasal septum, the surgeon can loosen and lift the mucoperichondrium (a mucosal area anchored to the cartilage) from the cartilage. This gives access to the underlying cartilage and bone tissue and affords correction.
If the breathing problems are not caused exclusively by the curved nasal septum but are also related to enlarged nasal turbinates, these can be reduced in the course of the operation. In order to avoid changes in shape and sinking of the nasal bridge, an experienced surgeon is required. For further stabilization, small films or foils are sewn onto the nasal septum on both sides or alternatively, a special brace is placed in the nose. These support elements are removed about ten days after the nasal septum correction. To stop bleeding, the specialist places a tamponade (absorbent dressing) in each nostril. This tamponade is removed about 24 hours after surgery.
Aftercare is especially important in septoplasty. To relieve the irritation of the mucosa, the nose should be rinsed with saline regularly after the procedure and treated with special gels, ointments or oils.
The patient should be in good physical shape as general anesthesia is necessary during this procedure. Before surgery, a definite curvature of the nasal septum must have been diagnosed by an ENT specialist. A crooked nasal septum is not always the cause of obstructed nasal breathing and snoring. Different sized nostrils are not a clear indication and can be corrected in the context of a nose tip correction. Patients prone to severe bleeding may only have septoplasty performed under special precautions. If a risk of severe bleeding during or after the operation is determined, the operation may not be possible.
Conditions to perform the procedure
• Nasal septum curvature must be diagnosed
• Good physical condition
• Special precautions for hemophiliacs
The main advantage of a nasal septal correction is the relief of the respiratory tract and the associated correction of a disrupted nasal breathing. Sinusitis, headache and swelling of the nasal turbinates, which can result from nasal septum curvature, can also be alleviated.
Thanks to the innovative, tissue-saving surgical technique as much intrinsic tissue as possible is used to stabilize the nasal septum and as little tissue as possible is removed. Thus, careful follow-up is less likely to cause complications such as sagging of the nasal bridge, formation of a saddle nose and mucosal perforations. The externally visible consequences of a nasal septum curvature can be corrected in the context of a nasal septum correction. This could include the size and shape of the nostrils being altered for symmetry.
Advantages of nasal septum correction
- Clearance of the respiratory tract
- Reduction of physical discomfort
- Reduction of snoring
- More restful sleep
Complications are extremely rare in a nasal septum correction, but can never be ruled out during any surgical procedure. Rhinoplasty can lead to perforation of the nasal mucosa. This is equivalent to a hole in the nasal septum and is caused by an unplanned mucosal injury during the procedure.
Post-operative bleeding and bruising may occur. However, they can be reduced to a minimum through adequate physical protection. In rare cases, a saddle nose may result. Also, a new curvature of the nasal septum is possible. Both may require further surgical correction.
Nasal septum correction is not a routine procedure, so the choice of surgeon should be based on experience and expertise. The experience of the treating ENT specialist plays a central role, since only he or she is able to carry out a complication-free nasal septum correction with a satisfactory result.
If there is a medical need, your health insurance company will take care of it. For aesthetic corrections you have to pay the costs yourself.
