The nasal septum refers to the internal “wall” between the two sides of the nose. It consists mainly of cartilage, mucosal linings and bone at its base. A septoplasty refers to a surgical procedure which corrects a deformity of the septum.
Deviation of the nasal septum due to trauma, disease or sometimes, naturally-occurring, can lead to functional obstruction to breathing. Relief of this obstruction usually requires a nose surgery known as a Septoplasty; which is then considered a medical procedure.
Septoplasties are also performed to correct abnormalities of the septum leading to visible deformity of the external nose.
It is quite common and convenient to combine a rhinoplasty (cosmetic or medical) with a septoplasty.
A septoplasty usually takes about an hour. A septorhinoplasty usually ranges from two to three hours.
A septoplasty is performed through a closed approach; the scars are hidden within the internal nose, there are generally no external visible scars.
As septoplasties are closed operations, there is usually minimal visible swelling. Most patients would return to work within 2-3 days.
