Deviated Nasal Septum:

The nasal septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils. In some people, the nasal septum is not perfectly centered, and it deviates to one side, leading to a condition known as a deviated nasal septum. A deviated nasal septum can obstruct one or both nasal passages, causing various symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent sinus infections, and even snoring.

Causes:

A deviated nasal septum can be present at birth (congenital) or can result from nasal trauma, such as a broken nose. In some cases, the deviation may worsen over time due to the natural aging process.

Treatment:

The treatment for a deviated nasal septum depends on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on the patient’s quality of life. Mild cases may be managed with over-the-counter nasal decongestants or saline nasal sprays to alleviate symptoms.

However, if the deviation is causing significant breathing problems or chronic sinus infections, the following treatment options may be considered:

1. Medications: Nasal corticosteroid sprays can help reduce inflammation and improve airflow in some cases. Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is a sinus infection.
2. Septoplasty: Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated nasal septum. During the surgery, the surgeon straightens and repositions the septum to improve airflow through the nasal passages.

Septoplasty Surgery:

Septoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, although local anesthesia with sedation may also be used. The surgeon accesses the septum through the nostrils, making internal incisions. The deviated portion of the septum is then carefully removed, and the remaining cartilage and bone are repositioned to create a straighter nasal passage.

Recovery:

After septoplasty surgery, patients can expect some initial discomfort, swelling, and congestion. Pain medications and nasal sprays are often prescribed to manage post-operative symptoms. Recovery time can vary, but most people can return to work or school within a week or two after the procedure.

It’s essential to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activities, refraining from blowing the nose excessively, and keeping the nasal passages moist with saline spray or gel.

Bent Nose Correction (Rhinoplasty):

Bent nose correction typically refers to rhinoplasty, a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to reshape and improve the appearance of the nose. While septoplasty focuses on correcting the functional issues related to a deviated septum, rhinoplasty aims to address aesthetic concerns such as a crooked or bent nose, humps on the bridge, wide nostrils, or asymmetry.

Surgery:

Rhinoplasty is also performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes incisions either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (the narrow strip of tissue between the nostrils) in an open rhinoplasty approach. The surgeon then reshapes the bone and cartilage to achieve the desired result.

Recovery:

Recovery after rhinoplasty can involve bruising and swelling around the eyes and nose. Nasal packing or splints may be used temporarily to support the new shape of the nose during the healing process. It may take several weeks for the swelling to fully subside and for the final results of the surgery to become apparent.

Treatment for Combined Issues:

In some cases, a patient may have both functional and aesthetic concerns with their nose. In such instances, the surgeon may perform a combined septorhinoplasty, which addresses both the deviated septum and the cosmetic aspects of the nose in a single surgical procedure.

It’s essential for anyone considering septoplasty, rhinoplasty, or a combined septorhinoplasty to consult with a qualified and experienced ENT surgeon or plastic surgeon. They can evaluate the individual’s specific issues and goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to achieve the desired outcome.