SEPTUM DEVIATION
Septum deviation is a common condition. The wall that divides the nasal cavity into two, i.e. the wall between the two nostrils, is called the ‘septum’. It is half cartilage, half bone, and its surface is covered with mucosa. If this wall is bent to one side to the extent that it makes breathing difficult, this is called ‘septal deviation’. This condition may be entirely structural, or it may be caused by severe trauma or a previous surgery.
Treatment Process
1 - 2 hours
1 day
5 - 7 days
4 - 6 weeks
Deviated Septum Harms
A deviated septum is a very common condition and doesn’t require surgery unless it truly impairs breathing. However, if the deviation is severe enough to reduce airflow, it can cause obstruction on the side of the deviated nostril and redirect inhaled air to the other nostril. Over time, the other nostril, which is forced to breathe more air than its capacity, develops turbinate hypertrophy, a growth in the nasal concha.
Nasal Septum Deviation Treatment
What is Septoplasty?
It is the surgical correction of a deviated septum that severely impairs breathing.
An important function of the septum is to support the weight of the nose and serve as a supporting column, keeping it upright. Therefore, in cases of deviated septum, it is essential to correct the area that obstructs breathing, rather than simply removing it. Unnecessary removal of a portion of the septum can be likened to a building with its supporting columns cut off. Reliable studies have shown that surgery to correct the nasal septum does not improve breathing, except in cases of severe deviation.
Will the shape of the nose change after septum deviation surgery?
Unnecessarily removing excessive cartilage from the septum can cause the nasal vault to collapse or curve over time.
Patient Reviews
What is Turbinate Hypertrophy?
The structures within the nasal passages that clean, warm, and moisturize inhaled air are called turbinates. There are three in each nasal passage. Turbinates are also commonly known as “nasal conchae.” These structures can be likened to air filters in a car engine. Over time, depending on the quality of the air inhaled or as a result of allergic reactions, turbinates become permanently enlarged, making breathing difficult. Turbinates can grow and shrink like a sponge, causing blockages that vary depending on the environment and position.
What is Turbinate Hypertrophy?
The procedure of reducing severely enlarged turbinates surgically or using instruments is called “Turbinateplasty.” This procedure is often short-term, using radiofrequency waves, but rarely, it can be surgically reduced. Due to their function, turbinates are never completely removed. However, they can regrow over time and cause discomfort.
What is Nasal Valve Insufficiency?
Respiration rate increases, especially during exertion (exercises, deep breathing). The nasal wings act like valves, controlling the amount of air entering the nose. In some cases, the cartilages that form the nasal wings are structurally weak and thin. Sometimes, this condition can develop due to a previous surgery. Especially during rapid and deep breathing during exertion, the nasal wings fold inward, becoming stuck, obstructing the airway. This condition is called “Nasal Valve Insufficiency.”
How is Nasal Valve Insufficiency Treated?
In the surgical treatment of nasal valve insufficiency, the nasal wings must be supported and strengthened. Cartilage grafts obtained from the auricle are most commonly used for this purpose.
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