Does Deviated Septum Surgery Change Shape of Nose?
Does Deviated Septum Surgery Change Shape of Nose? Deviated septum surgery, also referred to as septoplasty, is a frequently performed procedure conducted to rectify a deviated or misaligned septum, the thin partition between the nostrils. The objective of this surgery is to enhance breathing and relieve any discomfort caused by a deviated septum. Many individuals often wonder whether undergoing such a procedure may alter the shape of their nose.
Understanding the potential changes in nose shape post-surgery can be crucial for those considering this option. This article aims to provide clear, factual information on how deviated septum surgery could impact the overall appearance of your nose. It will discuss the surgical process and its purpose, the potential impact on nose shape, and what to expect during recovery.
Understanding Deviated Septum Surgery
Deviated septum surgery, medically known as septoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to rectify a deviated or misaligned septum. The septum is the thin wall that divides your nostrils into two halves. Ideally, it should run down the center of your nose, equally dividing it into two parts. However, for various reasons such as genetic factors or injury, the septum can deviate from this central position, causing one nasal passage to be smaller than the other. This can lead to issues such as difficulty breathing, frequent nosebleeds, and sinus infections.
The purpose of deviated septum surgery is primarily to improve breathing. When the septum deviates, it can block one side of your nose, reducing airflow. This makes it difficult to breathe through the nose, especially during physical activity or when you have a cold. By correcting the deviation, septoplasty helps restore normal airflow through both nostrils. Improved breathing can significantly enhance quality of life, making activities such as exercise more comfortable and even improving sleep in cases where the deviated septum caused sleep apnea.
Septoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local or general anesthesia and takes about 60-90 minutes on average. The surgeon works within the nostrils, making incisions to access the cartilage and bone that form the septum. They then move these structures back into the correct position. There are no external cuts or changes to the shape of your nose in a standard septoplasty. This is significant because it means that while the surgery corrects a functional problem inside your nose, it does not alter its outward appearance.
Impact on Nose Shape
One of the primary concerns patients often express about undergoing deviated septum surgery is whether it will alter the shape of their nose. This is a valid concern as the nose is a prominent facial feature, and any change in its structure can significantly influence a person’s appearance. However, it’s important to understand that septoplasty, which is solely intended to correct the deviated septum and improve nasal function, does not typically result in noticeable changes to the external structure or shape of the nose.
The reason for this is that during a septoplasty procedure, the surgeon works entirely within the nostrils, adjusting the internal structures without affecting the external nose. The incisions made during the surgery are all internal, so there are no visible scars left after healing. Furthermore, because the focus of this surgery is to realign the cartilage and bone inside your nose to improve airflow rather than alter its outward appearance, there should be minimal impact on how your nose looks post-surgery.
However, while a standard septoplasty alone should not result in noticeable changes to your nose’s shape, it’s worth noting that some patients may choose to undergo additional procedures concurrently with their deviated septum surgery. For instance, some individuals might opt for a rhinoplasty (often referred to as a “nose job”) at the same time as their septoplasty. Rhinoplasty is a procedure designed specifically to change the shape, size, or proportions of your nose. If you decide to have both surgeries simultaneously – often referred to as septorhinoplasty – then you can expect changes to your nose’s shape. But if you’re only having a
septoplasty, any changes would likely be subtle and unnoticeable to others.
Recovery and Results
After deviated septum surgery, patients typically experience some swelling and bruising, especially if additional procedures like rhinoplasty were performed. It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery. These instructions generally include advice on managing discomfort, maintaining nasal hygiene, and avoiding certain activities that could interfere with healing.
The initial recovery period usually spans one to two weeks during which you may be required to wear a nasal splint. This splint helps keep the septum in its new position while it heals. During this time, you may notice changes in your nose’s appearance due to swelling. However, these are temporary changes and not indicative of the final result. After the swelling subsides, your nose will return to its original shape if only a septoplasty was performed.
In terms of results, most patients report improved breathing following recovery from deviated septum surgery. As for noticeable changes in nose shape, as previously discussed, this is unlikely unless additional cosmetic procedures were performed. It’s also worth noting that everyone’s experience with septoplasty differs slightly depending on factors such as their overall health, the severity of their septal deviation, and whether any additional procedures were performed. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized information about what to expect during recovery and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will deviated septum surgery change the shape of my nose?
Deviated septum surgery, or septoplasty, is primarily aimed at improving breathing by correcting the deviation of the nasal septum. In most cases, where only a septoplasty is performed, there should be minimal to no noticeable changes in the shape of your nose.
How long does it take to recover from deviated septum surgery?
The recovery time for deviated septum surgery can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes about one to two weeks for initial healing, during which you may experience swelling and bruising. However, complete recovery and the resolution of any residual symptoms can take several weeks or even months.
Can I undergo a rhinoplasty at the same time as a septoplasty?
Yes, it is possible to combine a rhinoplasty with a septoplasty in a single surgical procedure. This combined procedure is known as septorhinoplasty. If you are interested in altering the shape or appearance of your nose while also correcting a deviated septum, you can discuss this option with your surgeon during your consultation.
Will insurance cover the cost of deviated septum surgery?
Insurance coverage for deviated septum surgery varies depending on your specific insurance plan and its coverage criteria. Some insurance companies may cover the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary for improving breathing and treating associated symptoms. It is advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any required documentation or pre-authorization processes.
Are there any risks or complications associated with deviated septum surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with deviated septum surgery. These can include bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia, scarring, and persistent nasal obstruction. However, serious complications are rare, and your surgeon will discuss the potential risks with you beforehand to ensure you are well-informed and prepared.
