Improve Breathing and Comfort with Septum Deviation Correction
The nasal septum is the bony and cartilaginous partition between the nostrils. When the septum is deviated, patients typically are aware of nasal airway obstruction. There may be mouth breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea and drooling from the side of the mouth while sleeping. Patients are often aware of reduced exercise tolerance since mouth breathing is not as physiologic as nasal breathing.
What is septoplasty?
Nasal septal reconstruction is a type of functional rhinoplasty that straightens the septum, providing normal physiologic breathing from both nostrils. When done alone with rhinoplasty, a closed endonasal approach without external scarring is preferred. Sinus surgery can be performed at the same time.
Dr. Michael Eisemann is a triple board-certified expert in rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures, having performed over 6,000 rhinoplasties in a career spanning 30+ years. He has a keen understanding of facial anatomy, and he uses groundbreaking surgical techniques that restore optimal air circulation in your nose with minimal side effects and post-surgical bruising. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Eisemann to discuss your septoplasty options.
Benefits of Septoplasty
- Restores optimal air circulation in your nose
- Improves athletic performance because of improved breathing
- Straightens the nasal septum
- Improves overall facial harmony and symmetry
Am I a Candidate for Septoplasty
You’re a candidate for septoplasty in Houston if you:
- Have a deviated septum that’s causing breathing problems
- Snore excessively due to a deviated septum
- Want a straighter septum for cosmetic reasons
- Are in generally good physical health
- Are a nonsmoker or willing to stop smoking
Surgical Techniques for Septoplasty
Septoplasty is generally performed under local anesthesia, with broader anesthesia being an option, depending on what Dr. Eisemann believes is right for your specific needs. Septoplasty is also generally performed as an “open” procedure, i.e., the surgeon makes an incision at the base of the nostrils to lift the mucous membrane and reveal the underlying septum.
The surgeon makes the necessary modifications to the septum, which might involve straightening the wall or removing excess tissues. In some cases, the surgeon may use a specialized technique called “extracorporeal septal reconstruction.” This technique involves removing the septum to straighten it externally and replace it back into the nose.
While most surgeons use chisels and hammers for septoplasty, Dr. Eisemann often uses the Piezoelectric Ultrasonic approach for superior results. A special device produces high-speed sound waves to generate vibrations that make the necessary adjustments to the bone and cartilage. This innovative technique allows the surgeon to make highly-targeted adjustments without affecting the soft tissues.
Once the necessary changes are made, the surgeon closes the incision with absorbable sutures. Silicone splints might be used to support the septum, and you may need to wear “packing” to prevent nose bleeding.
Septoplasty Recovery
You’ll experience some swelling, discomfort, and possible bleeding for a few days after your septoplasty in Houston. However, the post-surgical bruising and swelling will be far less than most typical septoplasties because of Dr. Eisemann’s innovative Piezoelectric Ultrasonic approach. You can manage the pain and discomfort with the prescribed medications.
You’ll wear nose packing for 24 to 48 hours and avoid blood-thinning medications for a few days. You’ll also have to avoid heavy workouts that increase blood circulation, such as running and cycling. You’ll keep your head elevated and should avoid wearing clothing that has to be lifted over your head. Your surgeon will provide a list of all the post-treatment recovery guidelines.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Eisemann?
Septoplasty is an incredibly delicate procedure that must be performed by the most practiced hands. Dr. Michael Eisemann has performed over 6,000 rhinoplasties in a career spanning decades. He’s a triple board-certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon with a reputation for optimal and natural results that adhere to his patients’ unique goals and expectations. He carefully examines your facial anatomy and discusses your goals to curate an individualized treatment plan with the ideal surgical techniques. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Eisemann to discuss your septoplasty options today.