About Septoplasty
During cosmetic rhinoplasty consultation, functional concerns are commonly discussed. Septoplasty, repair of nasal valve collapse, and turbinate reduction are functional nose procedures performed by our board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Chiu, to help correct obstructive breathing, while addressing cosmetic issues. If a patient has a deviated septum, then a septoplasty is often the appropriate next step. After meeting with the patient in a private consultation at Today's Cosmetic Surgery in Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Chiu may propose to reestablish and improve the nasal airway by correcting the crooked passageway and/or strengthening your nasal valves/sides of the nose. After cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty, patients can expect to experience not only cosmetic improvements but also easier breathing.
Ideal Candidates
The best candidates for septoplasty surgery:
- Have a deviated or crooked septum caused by genetics, birth defect, previous nose surgery, or trauma
- Have breathing or snoring issues
- Desire a long-term solution
- Desire a natural look
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What to Expect
Septoplasty is generally an outpatient procedure and can be performed under general anesthesia, twilight sedation, or local anesthesia. This surgery requires no external incisions since our plastic surgeon will lift and separate the tissue that covers the septum. This allows our surgeon clear access to the various nasal structures. The damaged structures will be reshaped, while not affecting the overall shape of the nose. The internal incisions will be stitched closed afterward. The surgical procedure lasts typically between 1 – 1.5 hours. Septoplasty and/or turbinate reductioncan also be combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery if functional issues need to be addressed.
Anticipated Results
Following septoplasty surgery, there’s little pain, discomfort, swelling, or bruising. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a week. The patient should notice improved breathing soon after the surgery, which should continue to improve in the weeks and months following surgery.
Improve Your Breathing
Breathing freely and sleeping well without nasal blockage should be natural occurrences. Unfortunately, a deviated or crooked septum can prevent proper airflow, which can have unwanted consequences. With a successful septoplasty, patients can breathe normally. To learn more about this surgery, give us a call today to set up a consultation.
