Septoplasty and septoturbinoplasty are two surgical procedures that are performed to treat various nasal conditions. These procedures are commonly performed to correct deviated nasal septum and turbinate hypertrophy. In this article, we will discuss the differences between septoplasty and septoturbinoplasty, their indications, and what to expect before and after the surgery.
Septoplasty: Indications and Procedure
Septoplasty surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct a deviated nasal septum. A deviated nasal septum is a condition in which the nasal septum, the thin wall of cartilage that separates the two nostrils, is displaced to one side, causing breathing difficulties and other symptoms. The indications for septoplasty include:
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Nosebleeds
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case. The surgeon makes an incision inside the nostril and lifts the mucosa to access the septum. The deviated portion of the septum is then removed, straightened, and repositioned in the center of the nose. The mucosa is then repositioned and sutured back into place. The surgery usually takes around one hour, and patients can go home on the same day.
Septoturbinoplasty: Indications and Procedure
Septoturbinoplasty is a surgical procedure that combines septoplasty and turbinate reduction. Turbinates are bony structures inside the nose that are covered with mucosa and help humidify and filter the air we breathe. Turbinate hypertrophy is a condition in which the turbinates become enlarged, leading to nasal congestion and difficulty breathing. The indications for septoplasty surgery include:
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Nosebleeds
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic allergic rhinitis
The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes around one to two hours. The surgeon makes an incision inside the nostril and lifts the mucosa to access the septum and turbinates. The deviated portion of the septum is then removed and straightened, and the turbinates are reduced in size using various techniques, such as radiofrequency ablation or partial resection. The mucosa is then repositioned and sutured back into place.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the septoplasty surgery, patients may experience mild pain, swelling, and nasal congestion. They are usually advised to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activities. Pain medication and nasal decongestants may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. Patients should avoid blowing their nose for at least one week after the surgery and should use saline nasal sprays to keep the nasal passages moist.
Patients can usually return to work and normal activities within one week after the surgery. However, full recovery may take several weeks, and patients should avoid contact sports and activities that may cause trauma to the nose for at least six weeks after the surgery. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are usually scheduled to monitor the healing process and remove any nasal packing or sutures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, septoplasty surgery and septoturbinoplasty are two surgical procedures that can improve the quality of life for people suffering from nasal conditions. These procedures are safe and effective, with a high success rate and low risk of complications. Patients should consult with an experienced and qualified surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure and to discuss the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring, or other symptoms related to deviated nasal septum or turbinate hypertrophy, you may benefit from septoplasty or septoturbinoplasty. Dr. Muddazir, a board-certified ENT specialist in Dubai, offers a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments for nasal conditions, including septoplasty and septoturbinoplasty. Contact Dr. Muddazir’s clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.