The septoplasty has long been the go-to procedure for the deviated septum, and many cosmetic surgery patients have had great success with this nose surgery. However, it is not surprising that there are cases in which the septoplasty is considered a failure. The goal of this surgery is for the surgeon to correct the deviated septum in the nasal structure.
Why Some Patients Need a Septoplasty
Individuals who constantly suffer from stuffy noses, bloody noses, sinus headaches, or snoring may benefit from a septoplasty. A septoplasty repairs a nasal septum, which is the tissue that separates the nostrils, in order for it to lie in the middle of the nose once again. A nasal septum may lie closer to one side of the nose than the other, restricting airflow and leading to difficulty breathing. Deviated septums can be the result of genetic defects, or they may occur from an injury to the nose. Some even occur over time as children and teenagers develop.
This is a fragile and intricate structure, and there is a high margin of error. Those looking for a trusted place to have a septoplasty performed need to look no further than board-certified plastic surgeons, especially those who specialize in rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures. Therefore, patients should make it a point to work with an expert ENT specialist who has experience with this surgery and has a high rate of success in providing patients with great results and minimized symptoms after the operation.
How Can Failure Occur with Septoplasty?
Suturing
In some cases, the surgeon will make a mistake as they are suturing up the patient. This region of the nose and the skin is very sensitive, and one wrong move can ultimately lead to severe visible scars for the patient. Even though this is not cosmetic surgery, most patients are hoping to have invisible scars after the septoplasty procedure. An experienced surgeon will know where to place incisions and which suturing techniques to use to provide patients with the best, most aesthetically-pleasing results.
Most plastic surgeons do not pack the nose following a septoplasty but may use internal sutures to hold the cartilage in place. After the initial healing phase, individuals are sure to experience the amazing differences brought about following a septoplasty.
Bone and Cartilage Removal
To complete the septoplasty, the facial plastic surgeon has to remove a certain amount of bone and cartilage and has to reshape the inner nasal structure. If all of the bone and cartilage that needs to be removed is not eliminated, then the patient may find that their original symptoms return after a short period of time. Recurring symptoms might include difficulty breathing, excessive snoring, or trouble sleeping through the night. When these symptoms return, it often means that the deviation itself has returned. Therefore, a revision septoplasty would be necessary to correct the deviation.
Recovery
Finally, the third reason that the septoplasty can fail is on the part of the patient. Even the most experienced and skilled surgeon cannot fully control the recovery process, which is an important step in ensuring the best results. Patients who do not abide by the restrictions and instructions given to them by their surgeon may find that their surgery is not successful in the long run. It is essential to listen carefully and to abide by all instructions that are provided, for the healing process is dependent upon the patient taking care of themselves throughout the entire recovery process.
Patients will be instructed to rest with the head elevated at home. The plastic surgeon will want to see the patient a day or two after surgery to ensure that the site is healing well. They will also ensure that the patient’s pain is well-controlled using the prescribed medication.
Working with a Skilled Plastic Surgeon
Having any type of surgery can be a scary experience, but professional plastic surgeons are experienced in setting patients’ minds at rest. They are willing to answer all questions about your septoplasty procedures, recovery times, the potential for risks, and even financial concerns. Many expert plastic surgeons use the latest technology to give our patients the answers they need, such as digital computer technology to simulate how patients will appear postoperatively.Â
The best way to guarantee a successful septoplasty procedure is to work with a qualified surgeon who has significant experience with this operation. The septoplasty is not a cosmetic procedure, but rather a medically-necessary surgery that corrects a structural issue within the nose. For procedures using general anesthesia, which is often the case with septoplasties, skilled anesthetists will be on hand. Following the septoplasty surgery, patients will be transported to a recovery room staffed with registered nurses before they are discharged home the same day.
Working with a highly-skilled ENT specialist for this surgery will allow the patient to rest easy, knowing that their surgeon knows the techniques needed to be used to get the job done right. In addition, this same surgeon can provide them with the personalized instructions that they need in order to guarantee a successful recovery.