Septoplasty

About your treatment

The aim of this procedure is to resolve nasal obstruction caused by a deviation of the nasal septum. The nasal septum is the partition separating the left and right sides of the nose. Part of it is cartilage and the other part is very thin bone. The procedure is done to improve the nasal airway and to improve access for medications into the nose in patients with allergic rhinitis. It is also carried out to relieve snoring in some patients.

Before your operation

Your surgeon would have discussed the operation with you.

Inform the surgeon if you are taking any medications that may affect blood clotting such as Aspirin, Warfarin and Clopidogrel (Plavix).

Stop all Garlic tablets or any other natural remedies containing Garlic at least one week prior to surgery as this increases the risk of bleeding during and immediately after surgery.

The Surgery

This is done under General anaesthetic and can take between 20-30 minutes depending on the severity of the septal deviation.

The operation is performed through the nose. There are no external scars.

After your operation

Usually no dressings are required, however if bleeding has been a problem during surgery you will wake up with nasal packs in place. These are removed by the nurse or doctor after a few hours. In severe cases they may need to be left in place overnight.

After leaving hospital

Your nose will feel very blocked for the first 2 weeks. During this period there will be minimal bleeding which will soon turn to clotted blood. You will also experience crusts in the nose which will slowly clear over the following 2 -3 weeks.

You will be given analgesia (pain killers) to take home along with instructions on nasal douching which is a very effective method for clearing the crusts and clots in your nose.

Do not strain or blow your nose for two weeks. We recommend two weeks off work and three weeks away from contact sports or heavy exercise.

Length of stay

Depending on what time the surgery takes place you may either go home on the same day (Day Surgery) or stay in hospital overnight.

Complications

1. Bleeding
The nose has a very large blood supply. Troublesome bleeding is therefore the commonest complication of any nose or sinus surgery. Should this occur please contact the hospital for advice or go to your nearest A&E department.
2. Infection
If you experience increasing pain or green discharge from your nose after surgery, you may have an infection and should take a course of antibiotics.
3. Smell
Sense of smell may sometimes be affected. This is usually temporary