Septoplasty, also known as nose alteration surgery, is a medical procedure used to realign a deviated septum. The septum is a thin layer of tissue located between the nostrils. Your surgeon may make numerous incisions and remove certain tissues to make room for the adjustment of your septum. After septoplasty surgery is complete, you may be able to breathe more easily and experience less bouts of nosebleeds and sinus infections. If you decide to have septoplasty surgery, you should be aware of its side effects.
Infection
Like all surgeries, septoplasty surgery carries the rare risk of infection, according to Drugs.com. For example, surgical instruments may not be sterilized properly or thoroughly. In addition, infection can occur as a result of nasal packing or sponges that are inserted into the nose after surgery. Infection may cause swelling of the nasal cavity and high fever. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to get rid of the infection.
Septal perforation
According to the American Rhinologic Society, septoplasty surgery may result in septal perforation, which is a hole in the septum. This may lead to bleeding, crusting and a whistling sound when you breathe. In severe cases, septal perforation can change the shape of your nose.
Ineffective Treatment
The Mayo Clinic states that septoplasty surgery may prove ineffective to treat your chronic nosebleeds and breathing problems. You may need to obtain another round of surgery to correct your deviated septum.
Nasal Problems
According to the American Rhinologic Society, septoplasty surgery can cause nasal swelling, numbness at the tip of your nose or upper teeth and bleeding. A septal hematoma (collection of blood) may form near the septum. To prevent the nose from becoming misshapen, the hematoma must be drained within 24 hours after it develops. The Mayo Clinic also indicates that septoplasty surgery can lead to scarring at the incision site.
Member Comments