Am I An Ideal Candidate For Septoplasty?
During your consultation for septoplasty in Atlanta, Dr. Killingsworth and his team of talented facial plastic surgeons will evaluate your nose, your medical history, as well as your procedure goals to ensure that you are an ideal candidate. It is important to remember that septoplasty corrects the inner structure of the nose. However, patients seeking an improved cosmetic appearance of the nose should combine septoplasty with rhinoplasty.
If you struggle to breathe and it has affected your sleep, exercise, or daily life, septoplasty might be right for you. Septoplasty can correct a deviated septum and allow patients to breathe more easily. The ideal candidate for septoplasty should be in good general health and a non-smoker. Additionally, patients should have realistic expectations for the results of their procedure.
What Should I Expect During Septoplasty?
Before undergoing septoplasty, patients will be administered anesthesia. The type of anesthesia administered, either local or general, is dependent on a variety of factors. The extent of the deviation, the patient’s anatomy, age, and health history can all influence the type of anesthesia that is required to perform the procedure. For this reason, it is vital that patients are open about their health history and current medications.
Once the procedure begins, our rhinoplasty surgeons will begin with the initial incision. This may be placed inside or outside of the nose, depending on the complexity of the condition. Next, the mucous membrane, the protective covering of the septum, is lifted. This exposes the septum, allowing it to be carefully repositioned. Any bone or cartilage interfering with the function of the nose will be removed or repositioned. The mucous membrane will be put back in place and the incisions can be closed.
What Should I Expect After Septoplasty?
Following septoplasty surgery, patients will be free to return home the same day of their procedure once the anesthesia wears off. Patients may experience mild pain, swelling, and bleeding. However, these symptoms are normal and will subside in the weeks following septoplasty surgery. Any pain can be controlled with medication. In some cases, a splint may be placed, or the nose will be packed with cotton to further promote healing.
Before sending you home, Dr. Killingsworth and his plastic surgery team will provide detailed aftercare instructions. It is important that patients follow these instructions with care to minimize the recovery period and maximize their results. Patients should be sure to keep their head elevated to relieve any swelling and allow fluids to drain properly. It is recommended that patients avoid strenuous activity, blowing their nose, and wearing glasses or touching their face to further expedite the healing process. Although procedure times vary, septoplasty usually takes between an hour and an hour and a half to complete.