Nasal Bone Deviation (Septum Deviation) Treatment: The Key to Healthy Breathing
Nasal bone deviation (septum deviation) is a common health problem that can seriously affect quality of life. The septum is a wall that divides the nasal cavity in half and is made up of cartilage and bone structures. Ideally, the septum is located right in the middle of the nasal cavity; however, many people may have slight deviations. As a surgeon specializing in the treatment of septum deviation, Dr. Ümit Hardal offers his patients the key to healthy breathing.
Septum Deviation and Its Causes
Septum deviation occurs as a result of the nasal bone and cartilage structure becoming significantly curved. This condition can be congenital or can occur as a result of trauma during birth or childhood. Genetic factors can also play a role in the development of septum deviation. Dr. Ümit Hardal determines the most appropriate treatment method for his patients by taking these different causes into account.
Symptoms of Septum Deviation
The most common symptom of a deviated septum is difficulty breathing through the nose. This can lead to unilateral or bilateral nasal congestion. Symptoms become more pronounced in conditions such as the common cold. A deviated septum can also cause problems such as recurrent nosebleeds, sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, headaches, snoring and apnea.
Septum Deviation Surgery Process and Aftermath
Surgery Process
1.Preparation Phase:
Preliminary Interview and Examination: Before the surgery, Dr. Ümit Hardal conducts a detailed interview with the patients. In this interview, the patient’s complaints, expectations and general health status are evaluated. Endoscopic examination and necessary tests (rhinomanometry, acoustic rhinometry) are performed.
Anesthesia Selection: Septoplasty surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. However, in some cases, local anesthesia may be preferred. The type of anesthesia is determined by considering the patient’s health status and preferences.
Surgery Planning: Dr. Hardal determines the necessary steps for correcting the septum by making a detailed plan before the surgery. If there is swelling in the nasal conchae (turbinates), these areas are also intervened.
2.Surgery Stage:
Duration of Surgery: Septoplasty surgery usually takes 30-45 minutes, excluding anesthesia.
Surgical Intervention: During surgery, small incisions are made inside the nose. Through these incisions, the bones that block the nasal air passage are removed and cartilage curvatures are corrected. If there is swelling in the nasal concha, these areas are also intervened.
Tampons and Supportive Materials: Silicone tampons with air channels are used to keep the nasal air passage open after surgery. These tampons allow patients to have a more comfortable post-operative period.
Post-Operative Process
1.The First Days:
Hospital Stay: Patients usually stay in the hospital overnight after surgery. During this time, they are closely monitored by the doctor.
Use of Buffers and Splints: Silicone buffers and nasal splints are placed inside the nose after surgery. These materials are used to stabilize the nasal structures and support the healing process.
2.The Recovery Process:
Tampon and Splint Removal: Silicone tampons are usually removed within 1 week. Since these tampons are silicone, their removal is comfortable and painless.
Swelling and Bruising: There may be mild swelling and bruising after the surgery. However, this usually disappears within 1 week. It is recommended to keep the head elevated and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Return to Daily Life: Patients can usually return to work or school 7-10 days after surgery, although full recovery may take several weeks.
3.Long-Term Care:
Follow-up Appointments: Dr. Ümit Hardal checks his patients at regular intervals during the post-operative period. These check-ups are important to ensure that the healing process is progressing properly.
Avoiding Trauma: During the first few months after surgery, blows to the nose should be avoided. Also, activities that may cause bleeding should be avoided.
Evaluation of Results: The nose takes its final shape approximately 9 months after surgery. During this time, the nasal tissues are completely healed and the results of the surgery are fully visible.
Enjoy Healthy Breathing with Dr. Ümit Hardal
Dr. Ümit Hardal offers the best results to his patients with his years of experience and expertise in the treatment of deviated septum. With his personalized approach, modern surgical techniques and patient-focused service approach, Dr. Hardal effectively solves nasal bone deviation problems. You can trust Dr. Ümit Hardal’s expertise to enjoy healthy breathing and improve your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Septum Deviation?
Nasal bone deviation is a condition in which the septum, which divides the nasal cavity into two, is noticeably deviated to one side, although it should normally be in the midline. This deviation can lead to problems such as difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, recurrent sinus infections and snoring.
2. What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?
The most common symptoms of a deviated septum include unilateral or bilateral nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, facial pain, headache, snoring, apnea, poor voice quality, and postnasal drip. In some people, symptoms become more pronounced during colds or allergies.
3. How is Septum Deviation Diagnosed?
Septal deviation is diagnosed with a detailed endoscopic nasal examination. Dr. Ümit Hardal uses advanced methods such as rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry to evaluate nasal breathing. In addition, if there are additional problems such as sinusitis, turbinate swelling and allergies, additional tests may be performed.
4. Is Surgical Intervention Necessary for the Treatment of Septum Deviation?
Yes, the only effective treatment for a deviated septum is surgery. With a surgery called septoplasty, the curvature in the nasal bone is corrected and the airways are opened. Dr. Ümit Hardal usually performs this surgery under general anesthesia and the surgery takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
5. What is the Recovery Process Like After Septoplasty Surgery?
After septoplasty surgery, patients are usually discharged the same day or the next day. Since air channel silicone tampons are used, patients have a more comfortable postoperative period. Swelling and bruising are usually minimal and there is no change in the shape of the external structure of the nose. The full recovery process can take several weeks, but patients can usually return to their daily activities within a week.