Our Summary

This research study examined the number of people in the U.S. who needed a second surgery, or revision, after initially receiving a septoplasty, a surgery that straightens the bone and cartilage dividing the space between your two nostrils. The study looked at data from 2007 to 2013 and found that out of 295,236 patients who had a septoplasty, 1.1% (or 3,213) needed a revision. The study also found that older patients were less likely to need a second surgery, while patients in the Northeast and West were more likely to need one compared to those in the Midwest. Furthermore, certain types of insurance plans were associated with a higher or lower likelihood of needing a second surgery. Overall, the study concluded that the need for a second septoplasty is relatively low, but can be influenced by factors like age, location, and type of insurance plan.

FAQs

  1. What percentage of patients needed a second septoplasty according to the study?
  2. Does age, location, or type of insurance plan affect the likelihood of needing a second septoplasty?
  3. How many patients were examined in the study about the need for a second septoplasty surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that while the need for a second septoplasty is low, it is important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to optimize healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the head elevated, and taking prescribed medications as directed. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor healing progress and address any concerns that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty include those with:

  • Chronic nasal congestion
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Recurrent sinus infections
  • Nasal deformity or deviation
  • Snoring or sleep apnea
  • Nasal trauma or injury

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist to determine if septoplasty is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition. Additionally, patients should discuss their medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals with their healthcare provider to determine if septoplasty is the best course of action for them.

Timeline

Before Septoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, and/or snoring.
  2. Patient consults with an otolaryngologist (ENT) who diagnoses a deviated septum and recommends septoplasty.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient receives instructions on pre-operative care, such as avoiding certain medications and fasting before the procedure.

After Septoplasty:

  1. Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery, which typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and congestion in the days following surgery and is prescribed pain medication and nasal sprays to manage symptoms.
  3. Patient follows post-operative instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the head elevated, and using saline nasal rinses to aid in healing.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences improved breathing and reduced symptoms over the following weeks and months.
  6. In some cases, patient may require a revision septoplasty if the initial surgery was not successful in correcting the deviated septum.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty?
  2. What is the success rate of septoplasty in terms of improving breathing and reducing nasal symptoms?
  3. How long is the recovery period after septoplasty and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. Will I need to take time off work or avoid certain activities after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that may be effective for my condition?
  6. How experienced are you in performing septoplasty procedures?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  9. How should I prepare for the surgery in terms of diet, medications, and lifestyle changes?
  10. What can I do to optimize the outcome of the surgery and minimize the risk of needing a revision in the future?

Reference

Authors: Youn GM, Shah JP, Wei EX, Kandathil C, Most SP. Journal: Facial Plast Surg Aesthet Med. 2023 Mar-Apr;25(2):153-158. doi: 10.1089/fpsam.2022.0009. Epub 2022 Apr 7. PMID: 35394347