If you are having difficulty exercising because of nasal airway obstruction, you may be a candidate for a surgical procedure known as a septoplasty. A deviated septum is a common problem that is either present at birth, or acquired as a result of nose trauma. Many of our patients do not ever remember having trauma to their nose despite having a largely deviated nasal bridge and septum.
The nasal septum is the large flat piece of cartilage that divides the left and right nostrils. If deviated (crooked), the twisted cartilage may interfere with the normal flow of air through the nostrils. If a patient has a deviated septum, dryness of the nose, difficulty breathing, snoring, and nasal deviation may occur.
Once conservative treatments are exhausted, a surgical option known as a septoplasty may be performed in order to improve nasal airflow. A septoplasty corrects a deviation and obstruction of the nasal septum, thus improving airflow. By straightening the nasal septal cartilage, respiration improves and breathing is facilitated.
During a septoplasty, a small incision is made into each nostril in order to help correct a deviated septum. Once the cartilage is repaired, small sutures are placed within the nose and a dressing is applied onto the bridge of the nose for several days.
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian is a plastic surgeon and specialist in septoplasty surgery in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. Schedule an appointment today by calling (310) 998-5533.