Doctors for Septoplasty in Chennai

Septoplasty is actually a surgical procedure in which the crooked nose is straightened again. As we know that there are two nostrils in our nose and there is a bone between these two nostrils. This bone is known as the septum bone. When it slips from its place due to any reason then the person faces so many difficulties, like the difficulty in breathing, and also danger of sinus problems. This surgery improves airflow through the nose and removes breathing problems.

Apart from it, this surgery is also done in case of any injury to the nose. Some cases are complicated, in those cases, the crooked bone may be cut during the surgery so that it can be reattached. However, this process is done on the basis of the patient's symptoms so that the condition of their nose can be corrected.The septum becomes deviated due to many reasons, such as foetal disorders and injury. Occasionally, a septoplasty is necessary during sinus surgery or tumour removal. Snoring problems may require septoplasty (not mandatory).

Septoplasty is advised on the basis of the following symptoms.

• Breathing problem : Difficulty in breathing through one or both nostrils.
• Facial pain : Regular pain on one side of the face.
• Snoring : A lot of snoring while sleeping.
• Infection of previous surgery : Recurrent sinus infections of any previous sinus related surgery.

An ENT(Ear, Nose, Throat) specialist surgeon does septoplasty. For this an incision is made in the lining of septum to reach the targeted bone. The surgical technique employed during the procedure depends on the patient's specific condition and the surgeon's discretion. Recovery after this surgery is fast. Typically, individuals can resume their regular activities within one to two weeks following septoplasty, although it may take several weeks or even months for complete healing.

There is an important precaution related to this surgery. Septoplasty should not be done if the person has an acute nasal or sinus infection. It should also be avoided if the person has some serious problems like severe hypertension, diabetes or bleeding diathesis.

The ENT surgeons adopt a septoplasty procedure on the basis of patients’ medical conditions. Some of them are as following:

• Traditional method for Septoplasty: In this method, the surgeons make an incision inside the nose and lift the mucous membrane to access the deviated septum. During the procedure, the surgeon proceeds to remove or reshape the septum bone in order to straighten it.
• Endoscopic method for Septoplasty: This method involves the use of an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to it) to visualise the nasal structures and the condition of septum bone in greater detail. This technique is often employed in cases where the septal deviation is intricate or combined with any other sinus procedures.
• Laser method for Septoplasty: As the name says, a LASER is used in this method for septoplasty. The laser is used to remove or reshape the deviated portion of the septum bone. The best benefit of this method is that it minimises bleeding during the procedure. This technique is less common and is used in specific cases.
• Preservation method for Septoplasty: Preservation method for septoplasty is the most recent technique that focuses on retaining the maximum amount of the natural septal cartilage during the procedure. Instead of removing or reshaping the deviated cartilage, it is repositioned or scored to improve the alignment. This approach is used when the septum is severely deviated but still has enough structural integrity.

The specific type of septoplasty procedure is chosen by the ENT surgeon after checking the condition of the patient. To check the condition of the patients some tests are performed. These tests have been explained in the next part.

Before undergoing a septoplasty in Chennai or any other location, the following diagnosis and tests are typically conducted:

• Physical Examination of nose: The very first test done before septoplasty is the physical examination by the ENT specialist. The doctor will examine the inside part of the nose using a nasal speculum.
• Medical History data collection and analysis: During the consultation, the doctor will carefully review the patient’s complete medical history including any prior nasal surgeries, allergies, and other nasal symptoms. It is good for the patient to provide all details to the doctor. So that the doctor can make the correct decision.
• Nasal Endoscopy: To obtain a comprehensive view of the nasal passages, a nasal endoscopy is also done. This procedure involves the insertion of an endoscope into the nostril, enabling a detailed examination of the complete internal structure of the nose. This helps the doctor assess the extent of the deviation and identify any other nasal abnormalities.
• Imaging Tests: In certain situations, some imaging tests like CT (computed tomography) scan or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan may be suggested to provide additional information. These tests provide detailed images of the nasal structures and help the surgeon to visualise the deviation, assess the sinuses, and other underlying conditions.
• Allergy Test: If the patient has an allergy problem, or the data of medical history shows an allergy problem in the family. Then the doctor may recommend allergy testing to make treatment decisions and it will also help in managing post-operative symptoms as well.

It is essential to consult a qualified ENT specialist in Chennai who will evaluate your condition, conduct the necessary tests before the surgery.

Septoplasty is performed in following steps:

• Anaesthesia : A general anaesthesia is given to the patients, to make them asleep throughout the surgery.
• Incisions: After the administration of anaesthesia, the surgeon will proceed to create incisions inside the nostrils. This approach is known as an endonasal or closed septoplasty, as there are no external incisions. The incisions are made to access the septum and correct the deviation.
• Accessing the Septum: The surgeon gently lifts the mucous membrane lining, which covers the septum, to expose the underlying cartilage and bone. This membrane is then temporarily moved aside to provide access to the deviated septum.
• Reshaping the Septum: The surgeon then removes the deviated portion of the septum bone by reshaping it. This can involve trimming or repositioning of the cartilage. In some cases, additional support is provided to the septum bone using sutures.
• Closing the Incisions: Once the necessary corrections have been made, the surgeon repositions the mucous membrane lining back over the septum and closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures. Nasal packing or splints may be placed inside the nose temporarily to support the septum and reduce postoperative bleeding.
• Post-Operative Care: After the procedure, You will receive instructions on how to care for your nose, including cleaning techniques and potential restrictions on physical activities.

The complete procedure varies as per the surgeon's technique and the individual patient’s condition. Some septoplasty methods also involve additional procedures, such as turbinate reduction or sinus surgery, if necessary. So It is important to consult with a qualified ENT surgeon for it.

Septoplasty, a surgical procedure aims at correcting a deviated septum, provides numerous potential benefits for individuals in Chennai. Some of its benefits are as following:

• Improvement in Breathing : By correcting the deviation in the septum, septoplasty can enhance nasal airflow through nostrils and allows easier and more efficient breathing.
• Prevention of Nasal Symptoms : Septoplasty can help alleviate a range of nasal symptoms associated with septum deviation. Such as chronic nasal congestion, facial pain, postnasal drip, impaired sense of smell, headaches, other frequent sinus infections.
• Enhanced Quality of Sleep : A deviated septum can lead to nasal obstruction, which often results in snoring and disrupted sleep patterns. Septoplasty helps in reducing snores, ultimately contributing to improved sleep quality.
• Reduced Dependence on Nasal Medications : Many people with a deviated septum rely on nasal sprays or decongestants to manage their symptoms. The ENT physicians suggest to use these medications for life long period of time. But thanks to septoplasty, it reduces the need for long-term use of such medications.
• Enhanced Overall Quality of Life : By addressing nasal obstruction and related symptoms, septoplasty can significantly improve a person's overall quality of life. It can restore normal nasal function, improve breathing, enhance sleep, and alleviate the discomfort associated with a deviated septum, leading to increased well-being and satisfaction.

It's important to consult with an experienced ENT specialist in Chennai to evaluate your specific case, discuss your symptoms, and determine whether septoplasty is a suitable treatment option for you or not.

Septoplasty is a safe and effective procedure, like any surgical intervention, it carries some potential side effects. Before undergoing septoplasty, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with the surgeon regarding these aspects. Here are some possible side effects associated with septoplasty:

• Nasal Bleeding: Some bleeding from the nose is common immediately after septoplasty. But in some cases, severe bleeding may occur. It is curable by simple medications.
• Infection: While infections after septoplasty are very rare, there is a small risk for them. To minimise the risk of infection, the surgeon may prescribe antibiotics as a preventive measure. So follow all the instructions of the surgeon and reduce this risk also.
• Persistence of Symptoms: In some cases of septoplasty, the nasal symptoms or nasal obstruction is not completely cured. It's possible that some factors, such as nasal allergies or chronic sinusitis, contribute to these symptoms. But such cases are rare and additional treatments are provided if necessary.
• Septal Perforation: It is a very small risk associated with this procedure. It refers to the formation of a hole or tear in the septum. It is important to be aware of this potential risk before undergoing septoplasty. This can cause nasal bleeding, whistling sounds during breathing, or changes in the shape of the nose.
• Anaesthesia-related Risks: General anaesthesia, which is commonly used during septoplasty, carries its own set of risks. These risks include allergic reactions, adverse reactions to medications, or breathing difficulties. But it is completely temporary.

Having a good discussion with an ENT specialist surgeon is essential to understand all the potential side effects. So always take appropriate preoperative counselling before surgery.

Recovery after septoplasty requires proper care and following all instructions of the surgeon. Some general guidelines for recovery after septoplasty are:

• Rest : Take it easy and allow yourself ample time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the surgery.
• Nasal Packing and Splints: Following a septoplasty procedure, nasal packing or splints may be inserted by your surgeon to support the septum as it heals. These packing materials or splints are typically removed within a few days after the surgery. It is essential to adhere closely to your surgeon's instructions regarding post-operative care for the nasal packing or splints to ensure optimal healing.
• Pain Management : Some discomfort and sore throat are common after the surgery. Your doctor may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any pain or discomfort. Follow the prescribed dosage instructions.
• Nasal Care: Proper nasal care is crucial for a smooth recovery. The doctor will provide all necessary instructions on how to properly clean the nose and manage any nasal crusting or discharge that may occur after septoplasty.
• Follow-up Appointments : Regularly attending all follow-up appointments with your doctor is vital following a septoplasty procedure. These appointments play a crucial role in monitoring your healing progress and addressing any potential concerns or complications that may arise. By attending these check-ups, your doctor can ensure that you are recovering well and make any necessary adjustments to your post-operative care plan to optimize your healing and overall outcome.
• Sleep Position: Sleeping with your head elevated can aid in reducing swelling and facilitating improved drainage. It is advisable to adjust your sleeping position by using an extra pillow or raising the head of your bed to promote a more elevated position during the initial recovery period following septoplasty. This can contribute to a more comfortable healing process. Use an extra pillow or consider using a wedge pillow to keep your head elevated during sleep.
• Dietary Considerations: Eating a healthy diet and staying hydrated can support your recovery process. Avoid hot and spicy foods that can irritate the nose and consume foods that are easy to chew and swallow during the initial days of recovery.
• Avoid Smoking and Secondhand Smoke: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It's important to refrain from smoking or being around smokers during your recovery.

It's important to note that recovery experiences can vary from person to person. The doctor will provide all specific instructions. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery process.