Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the bone and cartilage dividing the space between your two nostrils (septum). A septoplasty (or submucous resection) is an operation designed to straighten a bend in the septum of the nose. The septum is the midline partition within the nose. Occasionally, however, the septum under the tip of the nose may be bent into one nostril. This will be visible from the outside.

 

Before the operation you would have had consulted your Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon about your symptoms. Examination may include the use of a telescope to thoroughly examine the internal nasal cavity. This is performed at the Outpatient Clinic under a local anaesthetic.

 

You would usually be admitted on the day of your operation and could expect to be discharged in 24 to 36 hours. The operation is usually done under general anaesthetic but could be done under local anaesthetic. Incisions are made inside the nose and the nasal lining is separated from the underlying cartilage and bone. Deformities in the cartilage and bone are removed and the nasal lining is replaced.

 

The operation is not very painful. You may experience a bit of discomfort or tenderness in the nose for the first few days after the operation and you are advised to take simple painkillers. You are advised to avoid any painkillers that contain aspirin, as this may increase the chance of bleeding.