Theatre time is around 30 minutes
It is advised to take 2 weeks off work to reduce the risk of bleeding from the nose
THE PROCEDURE
A Septoplasty is an operation to correct nasal blockage by straightening the nasal septum. It is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes around 30 minutes. Patients normally go home the same day.
An incision is made inside the nose. The septum is straightened by a combination of repositioning and removing parts of the bony and cartilaginous septum. At the end, the septum is stitched, thereby avoiding the need to pack the nose.
AFTERCARE
For the first few days afterwards, the nose may feel bunged up – like a cold – with some blood-stained discharge.
There is a small risk of the nose bleeding within the first 2 weeks. It is therefore recommended to take 2 weeks off work.
The full benefits of surgery should be realised within 6 weeks of the operation.