Septoplasty (Nasal Curvature Correction Surgery)

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct the curvature (deviation) of the nasal septum and relieve nasal congestion.
The nasal septum is a structure consisting of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity into two and separates the nostrils from each other.
Curvature of the nasal septum due to congenital causes or trauma can cause nasal congestion, breathing difficulties and thus a decrease in quality of life.
Septoplasty surgery is the most effective treatment method to correct septum curvature.

Causes of Septum Deviation

The curvature of the nasal septum may be congenital or may develop later due to trauma.
The main causes of deviated septum are as follows:

Congenital Anomalies: In some people, the nasal septum may be congenitally curved.
This occurs during the development of the nasal structures in the womb.
Trauma and Injuries: The nasal septum may curve as a result of blows to the face and nose, accidents or sports injuries.
Genetic Factors: People with a family history of nasal curvature are more likely to have deviated septum.
Post-Accident Disorders: Damage to the nasal bone and cartilage structure, especially after accidents in childhood, can lead to deviated septum.

Symptoms of Septum Deviation

Deviated septum manifests itself with various symptoms, especially nasal congestion.
These symptoms include the following:

Nasal Congestion A curved septum narrows the nasal cavity, blocking airflow and causing nasal congestion.
This condition can be unilateral or bilateral.
Breathing Difficulty: Due to nasal congestion, patients may have difficulty breathing and often develop the habit of breathing through the mouth.
Sleep Problems: Nasal obstruction can lead to breathing problems and snoring during sleep.
Also, a deviated septum can increase the risk of sleep apnea.
Headache Mucus that accumulates in the sinuses due to nasal congestion can cause headaches and sinus pressure.
Nosebleeds Curvature of the septum can cause the nasal mucosa to become dry and irritated, leading to frequent nosebleeds.
Sinusitis Due to impaired airflow, the normal drainage of the sinuses is blocked, which increases the risk of developing sinusitis.

Suitable Candidates for Septoplasty Surgery

Septoplasty surgery is suitable for people who experience nasal congestion due to the curvature of the nasal septum, which negatively affects their daily life.
Suitable candidates for this surgery:

People with symptoms such as nasal congestion, breathing difficulties and snoring.
Patients who do not benefit from other treatment methods (medication, nasal sprays).
Cases where the curvature of the nose is serious and affects the quality of life.
People in good general health and able to tolerate surgical intervention.

Preparation Before Septoplasty Surgery

Before septoplasty surgery, the patient’s nasal structure and the extent of the curvature are evaluated in detail.
Points to be considered during the preparation phase:

Doctor Examination: The doctor examines the inside of the nose endoscopically and determines the degree of septum deviation.
In addition, information is obtained about the patient’s medical history, previous nasal surgeries and allergic conditions.
Imaging: If necessary, nasal and sinus structures are examined with computed tomography (CT).
Medication Use: The use of blood thinners and herbal supplements should be stopped before surgery.
Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can negatively affect postoperative recovery.
Therefore, it is recommended to stop smoking and drinking alcohol before the procedure.

How is Septoplasty Surgery Performed?

Septoplasty surgery is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and takes about 30-90 minutes.
The main stages of the surgery are as follows:

Opening the Incision: A small incision is made through the nose on one side of the septum.
Since this incision will not be visible from outside the nose, there will be no surgical scar.
Reshaping the Septum: The septum is reached by carefully lifting the nasal mucosa (outer membrane).
The curved bone and cartilage parts are corrected with the help of surgical instruments.
If necessary, excess cartilage or bone tissue is removed.
Tissue Corrections: Both sides of the septum are reshaped and fixed to the midline.
This ensures normal and symmetrical airflow.
Incision Closure: The incision site is closed with self-melting sutures.
Placement of Tampons and Splints: After the surgery, silicone tampons or splints are placed in the nose to stabilize the structures in the nose and support the healing process.

Recovery Process After Septoplasty

Recovery after septoplasty is usually quick and comfortable.
Points to be aware of:

Removal of Tampons: The silicone tampons or splints placed after surgery are usually removed by the doctor within 1 week.
Swelling and Bruising: There may be mild swelling and a feeling of congestion in the nose after surgery.
This condition decreases within a few weeks.
Head Position: Keeping the head upright during the healing process helps to reduce intranasal swelling.
Nose Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the inside of the nose with the nasal wash solutions recommended by the doctor accelerates the healing process.
Avoiding Heavy Activities: During the first 2-3 weeks after surgery, heavy exercises and blows to the nasal area should be avoided.

Advantages of Septoplasty Surgery

Septoplasty surgery improves the patient’s quality of life by relieving nasal congestion.
Advantages of the procedure:

Elimination of Breathing Difficulty: By correcting the curvature of the septum, the air flow in the nose is improved and the breathing problem is eliminated.
Reducing Snoring: By removing nasal congestion, snoring problems are reduced as a result of relaxed breathing during sleep.
Improved Sleep Quality: Correction of nasal breathing provides a better quality and uninterrupted sleep.
Reduction of Sinusitis and Headache Problems: By ensuring proper drainage of the sinuses, the frequency and severity of problems such as sinusitis and headaches are reduced.

Risks and Side Effects

Septoplasty surgery is generally a safe procedure, but it can have some risks and side effects:

Infection There is a risk of infection after surgery.
Following the postoperative care instructions minimizes this risk.
Bleeding There may be slight bleeding in the nose during and after surgery.
Perforation of the septum In rare cases, a small hole may form in the septum.
This usually heals spontaneously or is corrected surgically.