A deviated septum is an extremely common condition, in which the thin wall that divides the nostrils is far off center. Most people don’t experience symptoms or require any treatment. But for some, it can make it difficult to breathe and cause a host of other problems, including frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, inflammation and sleep apnea.
If a deviated septum is interfering with your life, specialists at DeKalb Regional Medical Center may be able to help. At DeKalb Regional Hospital, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists, or Otolaryngologists, on the medical staff specialize in septoplasty, a procedure that straightens the nose to improve airflow and provide relief for chronic and debilitating symptoms.
To find a specialist, call 256-845-3150.
Breathe Easier with Surgical Relief
During your initial visit, the ENT specialist will assess your symptoms and the structure of your nose, and work with you to find the right treatment. Non-invasive options include medications, such as decongestants or nasal sprays, but if your deviated septum is blocking one or both nostrils, your doctor may recommend septoplasty.
The procedure fixes the septum by trimming, re-positioning and replacing cartilage, bone or both. It is typically performed completely inside the nose, so any incisions will not be visible after surgery and external bruising is very unlikely.
Specialists normally perform the septoplasty procedure under general anesthesia so the patient doesn't feel discomfort, but local anesthesia may also be an option.
Recovery & Follow-Up Care
Septoplasty at DeKalb Regional is usually done as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to go home the same day.
Following surgery, patients are moved to a recovery room, to be monitored by nurses. The ENT will provide detailed instructions for managing pain or swelling after you leave the facility and to help ensure a smooth recovery.
Complications are rare and results are most often stable, though some changes can occur for up to a year or more after surgery, and cartilage and tissue may gradually move over time.
Other ENT Services Include:
- Tonsillectomy
- Adenoidectomy
- Thyroid surgery
- Complex sinus surgery
- ENT related cancer surgery
- Surgical navigation system nerve monitoring