Septoplasty Sinus Surgery Recovery

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to repair the effects of a deviated septum in the nose. Recovery from the procedure varies from person to person, and the full results of surgery might not be known for up to a year.

The Facts

The septum is a bone and cartilage wall that separates the two nostrils inside the nose. When it is displaced to one side or deviated, it may trigger symptoms including sinus infections and breathing difficulties.

Septoplasty Techniques

Septoplasty may involve repositioning the septum cartilage, grafting cartilage to a section of the septum or trimming cartilage and/or bone. It is typically performed through the skin at the nose's natural creases.

Surgical Considerations

During surgery, a patient may be fitted with plastic splints to hold the cartilage in position. In some cases, cotton may be placed in the nose for two or three days to protect against nosebleeds.

Short-Term Recovery

Nasal splints may be removed a week or so after surgery. Typically, a return to full activity is possible in roughly two weeks.

Potential Long-Term Results

After septoplasty, the nasal cartilage may shift in unforeseen ways. In some cases, it may take as long as a year before these changes reach their final form.

References

• The Mayo Clinic
• US National Library of Medicine - National Institutes of Health
• UT Southwestern Medical Center

Resources

• American Rhinologic Society - Septoplasty and Turbinate Reduction