SEPTOPLASTY (DEVIATED SEPTUM REPAIR) IN HOUSTON, TX
Do you experience breathing difficulties or disrupted sleep due to a deviated septum? Do nasal trauma or nasal chronic sinusitis get in the way of your quality of life? Although deviated septums may not have noticeable problems, a severe case causes issues like breathing difficulties, sinus infections, and frequent nosebleeds.
If having a deviated septum or severe septal deflection negatively affects the way you live your life, Memorial Plastic Surgery’s facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Tyler McElwee, offers you the perfect solution through septoplasty. Whether you come in for a septoplasty procedure or have a septoplasty as part of a rhinoplasty operation, our skilled team of professional surgeons is well-equipped to give you the best results based on your personal needs and goals.
WHAT IS SEPTOPLASTY?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure in rhinoplasty designed to correct a deviated nasal septum, a condition characterized by misaligned or crooked septums, the thin wall that separates the nostrils.
The main goals of septoplasty include correcting a deviated septum, removing nasal blockage caused by severe nasal airway obstruction, and giving patients sinus relief by improving airflow and respiratory function of the nose. This process is typically performed by ENT surgeons, rhinologists, or professionals skilled in nasal and facial surgeries.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SEPTOPLASTY?
Ideal candidates for septoplasty are people who are victims of breathing difficulties, snoring, or poor sleep quality due to a deviated septum. Individuals with nostril asymmetry or structural defects can also qualify for this procedure. Other symptoms that could indicate the need for septoplasty include sinus infections, facial pain, and headaches.
During your consultation, our team of double-board-certified facial plastic surgeons will examine your condition to determine if septoplasty is the best option for you. In some cases, a rhinoplasty procedure may be necessary to improve the cosmetic appearance of your nose. Our highly skilled and experienced team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that matches your individual needs.
HOW DOES SEPTOPLASTY WORK?
Septoplasty surgery is often performed under general anesthesia. In most cases, the procedure takes between 30 to 90 minutes. During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision on one side of your septum to access the cartilage and bone below. The mucosal tissue, which covers and protects your nasal cavity, is then lifted from the cartilage and bone of the septum.
Your surgeon will remove the crooked part of the septum and any obstructions, repairing the nasal valves. The remaining cartilage and bone are straightened and repositioned before the mucosal lining is placed back into position and secured with stitches. The procedure typically concludes with cotton packing placed inside the nasal passages to help control bleeding.
In some cases, the turbinates, the small structures inside the nose filter, humidifying, and heating the air we breathe, may be enlarged or contribute to nasal obstruction along with a deviated septum. During septoplasty, the surgeon may evaluate and address the turbinates if necessary. The specific techniques used will depend on the individual’s nasal anatomy and symptoms.
Your surgeon might even suggest advanced techniques, like turbinate reduction, bone grafting, nasal septum shortening, or spreader grafts for severe cases.
SEPTOPLASTY WITH MPS TOP DOCTORS
Our skilled team of double-board-certified surgeons has years of experience in septoplasty surgery. We use the latest advanced techniques to ensure optimal results are achieved for our patients. Our facial plastic surgery specialists have ENT backgrounds and ENT training, which is part and parcel of plastic surgery residency, thus giving them a leading edge within the industry. We are committed to helping our patients receive the best possible care and support before, during, and after surgery. Our goal is to reduce complications and make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
SEPTOPLASTY COST & FINANCING
The cost of septoplasty surgery varies depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the procedure and the surgeon’s experience. Typically, the cost includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility costs.
Most insurance plans will cover septoplasty that has been referred by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) or General Practitioner (GP). We accept most insurance plans, and we also offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable. Flexible financing options make it possible for patients to pay for their procedures over a period of time with little-to-no interest. Speak with our team to learn more about financing options.
RECOVERY & RESULTS
Recovering from septoplasty is typically a quick and straightforward process. It’s normal to experience some swelling and moderate pain for the first week or so after the surgery. Most patients, however, are back to their normal routines within a few days.
Throughout your surgery, your surgeon will be taking before and after photos to help document the entire process. These photos provide visual evidence of the changes that occur as a result of the procedure and can be helpful for both patients and surgeons
After your septoplasty procedure, your nose may feel stuffy, and your breathing may be aided by nasal splints. These are typically removed after a week or two. Don’t be alarmed if you experience mild bruising or swelling around your eyes or cheeks. This is normal and will subside.
After about two weeks, you can return to light physical activity, and after a month, you can resume normal activity. Keep in mind that full recovery from septoplasty surgery can take up to several months.
After a few weeks have passed and you diligently follow recovery tips offered to you by your plastic surgeon, you will notice significant breathing improvement and other symptoms once the swelling has subsided. Most patients experience long-term improvement in their quality of life after the procedure.
Here is what you can expect in your postoperative period:
| RECOVERY MILESTONES | TIME ELAPSED |
| Recovery from anesthesia | Day 1 – 2 |
| Observed swelling and moderate pain | Day 3 – 7 |
| Sterns/splints are removed and the nasal airway starts to clear | Day 8 – 14 |
| Swelling and bruising begin to subside | Day 15 – 21 |
| Observed improvements in breathing and sinus function | Days 21 – 45 |
| DAILY ACTIVITIES | ESTIMATED TIME |
| Light activities (chores, mild exercise, etc.) | 1 – 7 days |
| Return to work | 1 – 2 weeks |
| Heavy exercise and other strenuous activity | 4 – 6 weeks (or when your surgeon gives you their approval to do such activity) |
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS BREATHING EASIER
If you’re looking for an experienced, compassionate septoplasty surgeon in Houston, look no further than Memorial Plastic Surgery. We’re dedicated to providing quality care and achieving optimal results for our patients. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can help you breathe easier.
OUR DOCTORS ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT SEPTOPLASTY
Is septoplasty a painful procedure?
While septoplasty involves some level of discomfort, most patients report only mild-to-moderate pain and swelling after the surgery. Pain management medication can help alleviate pain, and rest and hydration can aid with recovery time.
Will there be any visible scars after the procedure?
Unlike other procedures in open rhinoplasty, septoplasty is typically performed using a closed approach, which means that the incision will be made inside your nostrils and will not leave any visible scarring.
Will septoplasty alter the shape of my nose?
In some cases, septoplasty may slightly alter the shape of your nose. The goal of septoplasty is to improve your ability to breathe and sleep while maintaining the natural look of your nose as much as possible. In some cases, a rhinoplasty procedure may be necessary to improve the cosmetic appearance of your nose.
How long does the septoplasty procedure take?
The length of the procedure largely depends on the complexity of the septum deviation and any other nasal problems that need to be addressed. However, most surgeries last between 30-90 minutes.
What happens if I still experience persistent nasal obstruction or similar symptoms?
For persistent symptoms after the initial septoplasty, patients can opt for revision septoplasty, which refers to a second procedure performed on an individual who already underwent a septoplasty procedure but continues to experience symptoms.
What is the difference between septoplasty and rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty and rhinoplasty are both surgical procedures related to the nose, but they have different purposes and focus on different aspects of nasal function and appearance. Septoplasty is performed to correct a deviated septum, which can obstruct airflow, cause breathing difficulties, and contribute to other nasal issues.
Rhinoplasty or a nose job, on the other hand, is a cosmetic procedure performed to enhance the appearance of the nose. Ethnic rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty are just a few examples of rhinoplasty meant to address aesthetic concerns related to the shape, size, symmetry, or proportions of the nose.
*The content and images on this page are provided with the sole intention of educating potential patients on the procedure discussed above. Results vary per individual and are dependent on our doctor’s consultation prior to the procedure. We strongly recommend undergoing a formal consultation with a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon prior to scheduling and undergoing any surgical or non-surgical treatment.
