Deviated Nasal Septum Treatment | Bent Nose Correction

Preparation Before Nasal Septum Surgery

Here are some preparation tips to follow before nasal septum surgery to avoid the chances of complications: 

• Before surgery, discuss your medical history,including information regarding your dietary and medical allergies, without fail.

• If you have any bleeding or clotting disorders for which you are taking blood thinners, then you need to consult your ENT specialist regarding their dosage.
• Smoking and tobacco usage slow down recovery and increase the risk of complications, so refrain from smoking for at least a week leading to the surgery.
• If you are undergoing surgery under general anesthesia, then refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day before the surgery.
• Avoid wearing any makeup, nose rings, etc., on the day of the surgery. Wear loose-fitting clothing during the surgery so that you are comfortable.

Recovery After Deviated Nasal Septum Surgery

The recovery period after septoplasty surgery varies from individual to individual. After surgery, incisions heal fairly quickly, and pain and swelling decrease significantly in a short period of time. However, complete recovery may take a little longer.

• One to two days: Attend all the follows up appointments with your surgeon. After one to two days, a doctor usually advises removing dressings, packing, or splints. 
• One to two weeks: A doctor usually suggests minimizing activities, especially those that involve lifting or straining.  
• One to two months: You can experience some pain and swelling after surgery. It may take months to experience the complete benefit after surgery. 
• Three months to one year: Cartilage and nasal tissue can take three to six months to heal fully. You can notice improvements in breathing problems, like snoring and dry mouth. These results can take time and vary from person to person.

Risk & Complications Associated with Nasal Septum Repair Surgery

Septoplasty is a low-risk procedure, but like any surgical procedure, it also carries certain risks and complications. Some common risks and complications are as follows:

• Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is common after nasal surgery. In some rare cases, excessive bleeding can occur.    
• Infection: After septoplasty, there is a risk of wound infection. Some common signs of wound infection are swelling, a warm nose, yellow or greenish discharge, or a foul smell coming from the nose.  
• Toxic shock syndrome: Postoperative TSS has been described following nasal surgery associated with the use of postoperative nasal packing.
• Tooth and nose numbness: In some instances, some of the nerves that lead to the gums, front teeth, and upper jaw go through the nose. Septoplasty increases the risk of injury to these nerves and ongoing numbness. The numbness usually resolves after a few months.
• Septal perforation: A small hole can sometimes develop in the nasal septum during or after the surgery, especially in the case of postoperative infection. If the perforation leads to bleeding or other similar complications, a person might require further surgery.

Lifestyle Changes After Deviated Septum Surgery

After deviated septum surgery, you must adopt some lifestyle changes to promote healing and to reduce the chances of any complications post-surgery:

• Activity level: A doctor usually suggests resting for a few days after surgery. You can resume light activities after one week. Avoid strenuous physical activities for one month this includes gym, swimming, and contact sports. Avoid nose blowing, and sneeze with your mouth open for the first week.   
• Diet: Start with a light diet, preferably liquids or soups, and then progress to a regular diet after 24 hours. 
• Pain control: Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. If required, you can alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen every three hours to control discomfort. 
• Antibiotics: In some cases, there is a chance of wound infection, a healthcare provider usually suggests a few antibiotics to reduce the chances of infection. Take all prescribed medicines after surgery.
• Surgical dressing: After surgery, a surgeon places gauze under the nose. If you have excessive bleeding that requires changing the gauze every hour, call your doctor for further instructions. A surgeon may also place soft splints or packing inside your nose. 
• Keep the surgical site clean: Rinse the inside of your nose every day. If you develop crusting around the nostrils, dip a cotton swab in half-strength hydrogen peroxide. After that, gently clean the area, being careful not to insert the cotton swab into the nostrils.  

Cost of Deviated Nasal Septum Surgery

The cost of deviated nasal septum surgery in India typically ranges from around INR 40,000 to INR 60,000. This is the estimated cost of surgery, the final cost can vary depending on various factors, including

• Consultation fees of the surgeon
• City of the treatment 
• Choice of the hospital
• The severity of the condition
• Cost of diagnostic tests
• Any pre-existing health condition
• Post-surgical care and complications

Deviated Septum Surgery Coverage Under Insurance

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to correct a deviated nasal septum. The total expense of this procedure can be quite high, which is why it is always beneficial to have health insurance or mediclaim coverage. It prevents you from having to manage medical expenses on your own. Learn how health insurance and mediclaim policies can benefit you if you have to undergo septoplasty.

Home Remedies For Deviated/Crooked Nasal Septum

Listed below are some home remedies that you can try for deviated nasal/crooked nasal septum:

• Nasal steroids

Individuals with a deviated septum often experience discomfort and difficulty breathing, particularly when dealing with allergies and infections. To provide relief from allergic reactions, one of the most effective treatment options available over the counter is nasal steroids. However, it’s essential to understand that these medications need to be used consistently over an extended period for optimal results. It’s worth noting that some side effects may occur, such as dryness, stinging, throat soreness, and, in rare cases, nosebleeds. If someone has a prolonged medical condition, it’s crucial for them to consult their doctor or pharmacist before using steroid nasal sprays.

• Allergic medicines

Allergic inflammation can exacerbate the impact of a deviated septum. In these situations, antihistamines can be beneficial. These medications are offered in both chewable tablets and nasal spray forms. However, it is essential to select a non-drowsy option to avoid any interference with driving or work while using them.

• Nasal strips

These nasal aids are similar to band-aids with spring-like bands that adhere to the nose. When worn at night before bedtime, they lift the sides of the nose away from the septum, effectively widening the nasal passages and improving airflow. Additionally, wearing these aids during sleep can significantly reduce snoring. They are readily accessible at local pharmacies and do not require a prescription for purchase.

• Nasal dilators

Nasal dilators function by mechanically opening the nasal passages, reducing air resistance for improved airflow. Two primary types of nasal dilators are available: external and internal. External dilators exert outward force from the outside, while internal dilators apply pressure from within the nostrils.

• Nasal Valve Support

The nasal valve support is discreetly inserted inside the nose to alleviate blockages in the front nasal area, resulting in enhanced airflow without causing any discomfort or irritation. Its placement inside the nose ensures that it remains unnoticeable to others.

• Nasal irrigations or Neti-Pot

A Neti-pot is a nasal irrigation system that involves gently pouring a saline solution through the nasal cavity. This natural method effectively clears mucus and alleviates sinus pressure. It can also enhance the function of cilia in the nasal lining, aiding in mucus clearance. Saline solutions for nasal irrigation are conveniently available in bottled form at local pharmacies. After using a Neti-pot, it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection. It is recommended to use boiled and cooled water instead of tap water for this purpose.

• Vaporizer or Humidifier

A vaporizer or humidifier is a compact device designed to add moisture to the air. Dryness in the nose can exacerbate symptoms of a deviated septum, making it beneficial to breathe in moist air, particularly during sinusitis episodes. Vaporizers generate steam by heating water, so it’s essential to keep them out of reach of children. When using a vaporizer or humidifier in a room, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can create an ideal environment for bacteria, mold, and dust mites. After each use, be sure to clean the device to maintain its hygiene thoroughly.

• Taking a hot shower

The effects of using a vaporizer and taking a hot shower are the same- breathing in moist air. Hence, taking a hot shower will help in reducing nasal congestion due to nasal obstruction caused by a deviated septum.

• Avoiding irritants

Allergies are the main cause of congestion in people with deviated septums and make it worse. Therefore, be sure to stay away from anything that can irritate one. Avoid irritants like pollen, dust mites, animals, and so forth. Smoke, paint fumes, household chemicals, and perfumes can also cause allergies in some people. Therefore, avoid these substances as well. Several food allergies, including milk and red wine, can also cause nasal congestion.

• Natural Treatment

Breathing retraining therapy is another rare treatment option. It is a natural therapy that can alleviate symptoms caused by a deviated septum. This technique is specifically designed to improve functional breathing patterns. People with a deviated septum generally tend to suffer from over-breathing and need to normalize this hyperventilation. This breathing technique aims to train the body to breathe more slowly and regularly. 

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Before Deviated Nasal Septum Surgery

Before surgery, you must ask the following questions to your surgeon to have a better understanding of the procedure and the risks and complications associated with it:

• What are the risks and complications of deviated nasal septum surgery?
• Is septoplasty painful?
• How long does it take to recover completely after the septoplasty surgery?
• Can I breathe after septoplasty surgery?
• What precautions do I need to take after septoplasty surgery to promote healing?
• Are there stitches in septoplasty surgery?
• What is the success rate of septoplasty surgery?
• Can I touch my nose after septoplasty surgery?
• Is deviated nasal septum serious?
• Can deviated nasal septum be cured?
• What are the treatment options for deviated nasal septum except for surgery?
• How can I fix my deviated nasal septum naturally?
• Is deviated nasal septum permanent?

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