Our Summary

This research paper discusses a procedure that is used to repair cleft lip and palate, which are birth defects that affect the upper lip and roof of the mouth. The procedure, called septoplasty, aims to improve the symmetry of the nose without removing any cartilage, thus avoiding growth issues. This method also helps to promote growth in the upper jaw by improving early nasal breathing. It may even prevent the need for further nose surgery, which can cause new scars. However, this procedure can increase the risk of scar contraction, so it’s crucial to use a nasal conformer to shape the nose.

FAQs

  1. What is septoplasty and what birth defects does it aim to repair?
  2. How does septoplasty promote growth in the upper jaw and possibly prevent the need for further nose surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks of the septoplasty procedure and how can these be mitigated?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about septoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include keeping the nasal passages moist with saline spray, avoiding strenuous activities that could increase blood flow to the nose, and gently cleaning the incision site as directed. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns that may arise. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure successful healing and optimal results from their septoplasty procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which is a common condition where the wall that separates the two nostrils is crooked or off-center. This can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and sinus infections.

Other patients who may benefit from septoplasty include those who have experienced trauma to the nose, such as a broken nose, which has resulted in a deviated septum. Septoplasty can help improve breathing and reduce symptoms associated with a deviated septum.

Additionally, patients who have nasal polyps, which are noncancerous growths in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, may also be recommended for septoplasty. The procedure can help improve airflow through the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms such as congestion, loss of smell, and facial pain.

Overall, patients who are experiencing chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, or other nasal issues may be recommended for septoplasty to improve their quality of life and overall nasal function. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified ear, nose, and throat specialist to determine if septoplasty is the right treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  1. Consultation with an otolaryngologist (ENT) to discuss symptoms and potential treatment options for a deviated septum.
  2. Physical examination and possibly imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of a deviated septum.
  3. Pre-operative preparation, including blood tests, medication adjustments, and instructions on fasting before the surgery.

After septoplasty:

  1. Recovery period in the hospital or outpatient facility, typically lasting a few hours to a day.
  2. Pain management and follow-up care instructions provided by the medical team.
  3. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the nose and surrounding areas for the first few days after surgery.
  4. Gradual improvement in breathing and nasal congestion as the swelling subsides over the following weeks.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or complications.
  6. Nasal packing removal and potential need for nasal irrigation to aid in the healing process.
  7. Return to normal activities and exercise after a few weeks, with full recovery expected within a few months.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  2. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty and what can I expect during the healing process?
  3. Will septoplasty improve my ability to breathe through my nose?
  4. How long do the results of septoplasty typically last?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the septoplasty procedure?
  7. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions after the procedure?
  9. How soon after septoplasty can I return to work or normal daily activities?
  10. What kind of scarring can I expect after septoplasty and how can it be minimized?

Reference

Authors: Saboye J. Journal: Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2018 Feb;63(1):81-85. doi: 10.1016/j.anplas.2017.10.002. Epub 2017 Nov 20. PMID: 29157878