Patients with a significant deviated nasal septum (the wall that separates the right and left nasal chambers) often suffer from breathing problems and have an increased risk of difficulties with sinus infections.
The Deviated/Crooked Nose
A crooked or deviated nose is usually a result of childhood trauma or occasionally a congenital deformity and can often affect nasal breathing and function. One of the biggest challenges during a rhinoplasty is straightening a deviated nose. Several factors contribute to this; the first is that the deviated cartilage and bone have a certain level of memory that must be addressed; another is that the nasal deviation may also occur when setting the facial asymmetry.
This means that it can be difficult to find a true midline plane in which to place the new nasal position. To straighten the nose, the underlying framework must be made as straight as possible. This includes repositioning the septum and nasal bones to the midline. Once the septum is centered any deviation of the nasal bones is then addressed by resetting bone fractures known as osteotomies.
What is deviated septum surgery?
When conservative medical therapies fail, a corrective surgery known as a septoplasty may be indicated to improve your nasal airflow.
To fully evaluate your nose, Dr. Saigal will examine your nose and sinuses with a nasal endoscope. Based on the degree of blockage, he may recommend surgery to improve breathing and to relieve your nasal obstruction. Surgery requires general anesthesia, lasts about an hour, and is done on an outpatient basis. Packing is very rarely required and recovery is usually less than a week.
What are the causes and symptoms of a deviated septum?
A deviated septum may be from birth, from normal aging, or as a result of trauma.
Here are some common symptoms of a deviated septum:
- stuffy nose
- congestion
- difficulty breathing
- headaches
- nosebleeds
- snoring
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Closed Rhinoplasty/Scarless Surgery
Dr. Saigal performs Endonasal, or Closed Rhinoplasty, a minimally invasive and time-proven technique where invisible incisions are placed inside the nostrils. This helps with a quicker recovery (often less than seven days), as well as less bruising and swelling.
In certain instances, Dr. Saigal may discuss the need for Open, or External Rhinoplasty. In this procedure, he makes an incision across the undersurface of the nose and inside the nostrils to give you the best result possible. The details of this decision will be discussed with you during your consultation.
What are the goals of Rhinoplasty?
The goal of rhinoplasty is to improve nasal breathing while adjusting the nose so it blends harmoniously with the rest of the face. This surgery is customized to your needs. Our goal is to give you a result that appears natural and fits the characteristics of your face without an over-operated look. Our office uses digital imaging software to help you communicate your aesthetic ideal.
Will there be pain or bruising? Will my nose need to be "packed"?
Pain and bruising are usually minimal, and patients return to work after a week. Packing is not necessary after rhinoplasty and is only rarely required.