Deviated Septum Specialist
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Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center
Otolaryngology located in Orlando, FL & Kissimmee, FL
When the septum inside your nose is displaced severely enough to cause congestion, sinus infections, or nosebleeds, you have a deviated septum that should be repaired. Wade Han, MD, FACS, at Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery has helped many patients regain their ability to breathe, sometimes improving the appearance of their nose along the way, by realigning their deviated septum. Schedule an appointment online or call one of the offices in Orlando or Kissimmee, Florida.
Deviated Septum Q & A
What is a deviated septum?
The septum is a thin wall of cartilage inside your nose that separates your two nostrils. When the septum is displaced or moved over to one side, it’s called a deviated septum. If your deviated septum is severe, it can partially or completely block one of the nasal passageways. This restricts airflow and makes it hard to breathe.
What symptoms will I develop due to a deviated septum?
You may not have any symptoms if the deviation is mild. However, if your deviated septum is severe enough to cause symptoms, you’ll have:
- Nasal congestion
- Blocked nostril (one or both)
- Nosebleeds
- Sinus infections
Some patients develop postnasal drip, headaches, and facial pain on the side of their face where the nostril is diminished. A deviated septum increases your risk of sinus inflammation and chronic sinusitis.
How is a deviated septum treated?
Decongestants or antihistamines may relieve your symptoms when you have a mildly deviated septum. Otherwise, the only treatment for a deviated septum is an outpatient surgical procedure called septoplasty.
During a septoplasty, Dr. Han straightens the septum and makes sure it goes down the center of your nose. The procedure may require trimming, repositioning the tissue, and replacing some of the cartilage.
Sometimes the bones in the nose are crooked and responsible for pushing the septum to one side. If that’s the case, Dr. Han repositions the bones. When the problem with the septum is along the bridge of your nose, he may need to place extra strips of cartilage along the septum.
Before you go home, you’ll receive detailed instructions about how to care for your nose after your surgery. Dr. Han may ask you to avoid strenuous activities, avoid blowing your nose, and elevate your head when sleeping. It may take several days for the swelling to go down, but most patients are back to school or work in about a week.
It takes time for the tissues inside your nose to heal, and your appearance changes slightly during the healing process. The tissues are usually stable in 3-6 months, but they may continue to change for a year or longer.
If you have symptoms of a deviated septum, call Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery or book an appointment online.
