Our Summary

This research analyzed data from 598 patients to study the effects of cigarette smoking on a specific type of nose surgery called septorhinoplasty. The researchers divided the patients into three groups: those who never smoked, those who used to smoke but quit, and those who are currently smoking. They wanted to see if smoking status influenced the surgery’s success and if there were any differences in complications or need for further surgery. The results showed that smoking status didn’t affect the surgery’s success, complication rates, or need for additional surgery. However, the researchers still advise patients to quit smoking before surgery because of the general health risks associated with smoking.

FAQs

  1. Does smoking status influence the success of septorhinoplasty?
  2. Are there any differences in complication rates or need for additional surgery based on a patient’s smoking status?
  3. Why do researchers advise patients to quit smoking before septorhinoplasty if smoking doesn’t affect the surgery’s success?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to quit smoking before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications and promote overall health. Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of infection, so quitting before the procedure can improve outcomes and recovery. Additionally, quitting smoking can also improve overall health and well-being in the long term.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which is a condition where the thin wall between the nasal passages is displaced to one side. This can lead to difficulty breathing, frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, and snoring. Septoplasty is often recommended for patients who have tried other treatments such as nasal sprays or allergy medications without success. Additionally, patients who have a nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum may be candidates for septoplasty. It is important for patients to consult with an ENT specialist to determine if septoplasty is the right treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, frequent nosebleeds, and headaches.
  2. Patient consults with an ENT specialist who diagnoses a deviated septum and recommends septoplasty as a treatment option.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  4. Patient discusses the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes with their surgeon and schedules a surgery date.

After Septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery to correct the deviated septum and improve nasal airflow.
  2. Patient experiences post-operative symptoms such as swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the nose and face.
  3. Patient follows post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon, including taking prescribed medications, keeping the nasal area clean, and avoiding strenuous activities.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or complications.
  5. Patient gradually notices improvements in nasal breathing and overall quality of life as the nasal passages are cleared and airflow is restored.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will septoplasty improve my breathing and overall quality of life?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  3. What is the success rate of septoplasty in improving nasal obstruction?
  4. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty and what can I expect during this time?
  5. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be more suitable for my condition?
  7. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional surgeries or procedures in the future after septoplasty?
  9. How can smoking before or after septoplasty affect the surgery’s outcome and my overall health?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or habits I should consider changing to optimize the results of septoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Erol O, Koycu A. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2022 Jun;46(3):1378-1384. doi: 10.1007/s00266-021-02683-9. Epub 2022 Jan 6. PMID: 34988636