Deviated Septum Process | Ask the Expert: Ear, Nose and Throat Care with Dr. Smedley at Utica Park Clinic

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Question:

I’ve had a deviated septum for 20 or 25 years and it’s about time I do something about it. What is the typical process of having that repaired? Is that an outpatient procedure? How many days of work should I plan on missing?

Answer:

First of all, good choice to get something done about your deviated septum! The most common responses I hear from patients afterward are “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” and “So this is what it feels like to breathe through my nose!”

Plan on an outpatient procedure. You’ll come in for your procedure and go home the same day. Typically the surgery lasts between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on the extent of your deviation. Frequently the inferior turbinates (structures running alongside the septum from the nasal sidewalls) will be reduced at the same time. If you have concurrent chronic sinus problems, your surgeon may discuss with you the possibility of sinus surgery as well, which may increase the surgical time.

Nasal packing was once commonplace after nasal surgery and very painful to have removed. But thanks to medical advancements in the 20-25 years that you have waited, you no longer need to endure this painfully memorable step! Sometimes there will be soft splints placed that are easily removed in the office five to seven days after surgery.

Pain medicine will be prescribed for the first few days after surgery, along with antibiotics in some cases. Nasal saline spray is a vital part of your post operative recovery, so make sure to have plenty on-hand.

You will be able to return to work within a week in most cases, but you’ll need to stay away from manual labor, exercise, and other strenuous activities for about 2 weeks to lower the risk of a post operative nose bleed. Your surgeon will have specific details based on your individual surgical needs.

Come on in and see what options are available to you! You’ll be glad that you did!