Septoplasty and turbinate surgery
Straightening the nasal septum and reducing swollen turbinates to improve breathing.
Septoplasty straightens the septum, the partition inside the nose, to improve the airway when a bend is causing blockage. It can also restore the function of the nose after an injury or correct structural problems present since childhood, and is often combined with reducing enlarged turbinates. Nasal blockage has many causes, so all avenues are explored at assessment first.
What it involves
- Usually one to two hours under general anaesthetic
- Performed through a small cut inside the nose, with no change to the outside
- The lining is lifted, the bent septum reshaped or trimmed, then laid back and stitched
- A small internal splint may be used for about a week
- Usually a day case, home 4 to 6 hours after theatre
Recovery
- A little blood-stained discharge is normal; packing is not usually needed
- Avoid hot food and drinks, and let baths and showers cool, as heat can trigger bleeding
- Do not blow your nose for 48 hours, then gently, one side at a time
- Avoid bending or heavy lifting; sneeze with your mouth open
- Most people take about two weeks off work
Risks
Septoplasty is safe with a good outcome for most people, though the result is not completely predictable. Risks include rare heavier bleeding; a small chance of a hole in the septum (perforation), often symptomless but occasionally causing crusting, whistling or blockage; a very small chance (under 1%) of a change in nose shape after severe infection or a large perforation; and a very small chance of affecting the sense of smell. Overall, under 5% of patients have a further procedure for ongoing concerns.
If you play contact sports such as rugby or martial arts it is usually best to delay surgery, as the nose is permanently a little weaker afterwards. Recreational cocaine must be stopped permanently, as it can severely damage the blood supply and structure of the nose.
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This page is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. The right treatment depends on your assessment.