Can A Deviated Septum Come Back After Surgery?
Can A Deviated Septum Come Back After Surgery? A deviated septum is a common physical disorder of the nose, involving a displacement of the nasal septum. While some people are born with this nasal condition, others may develop it due to an injury or trauma to the nose. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, often causing problems like nasal obstruction and difficulty in breathing.One effective treatment for deviated septum is surgery, followed by positive outcomes in many cases. There are concerns about its recurrence post-surgery. This article aims to address these concerns and provide valuable information about the possibility of a deviated septum coming back after surgery.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum refers to a condition where the thin wall or septum between your nostrils is displaced or off-center. The septum generally stands straight in the middle of your nose, dividing it into two equal parts. However, when it’s deviated, one nasal passage is smaller than the other, which might lead to problems with proper breathing or nasal obstruction.
Can A Deviated Septum Come Back After Surgery? This condition is quite common among people. Many individuals have some sort of imbalance in the size of their breathing passages. While for some, a deviated septum may present no bothersome symptoms, others may experience significant nasal obstruction and struggle with respiratory issues. A severely deviated septum might even block one side of your nose and reduce airflow causing difficulty in breathing.
Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum can also lead to dry mouth, as the affected individual might need to breathe through their mouth more often because of a blocked nose. It may also result in sleep disturbances like snoring and sleep apnea. Moreover, the unbalanced distribution of airflow in the nose could lead to frequent sinus infections. With this understanding of what a deviated septum is and how it can cause nasal obstruction, it becomes essential to discuss the available treatments and their effectiveness. Can A Deviated Septum Come Back After Surgery?
Surgical Treatment for Deviated Septum
The primary surgical treatment for a deviated septum is a procedure called septoplasty. This is an operation performed entirely within the nose, and it aims to straighten the septum, thereby enhancing airflow through the nostrils. During septoplasty, the surgeon works through the nostrils, making an incision in the lining of the septum to reach the cartilage targeted in the treatment. This surgical procedure does not generally lead to bruising or external signs of surgery.
Septoplasty is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the condition. The positive outcomes of this surgery are manifold. Post- surgery, patients often experience significant improvements in breathing, reduction in nasal obstruction and an overall enhancement in their quality of life. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with septoplasty, but these are rare and can be discussed in detail with the healthcare provider.
Another positive outcome from septoplasty is that it can help alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion and frequent sinus infections caused by a deviated septum. It’s important to note that while surgery can have numerous positive outcomes, it doesn’t guarantee complete symptom relief for all patients. Factors such as nasal allergies or sinus issues can continue to cause symptoms even after surgery. However, many patients report a significant reduction in their symptoms and an improved quality of life post-surgery. This makes
septoplasty a worthwhile option for those struggling with severe symptoms related to a deviated septum. Can A Deviated Septum Come Back After Surgery?
Recurrence of Deviated Septum
While septoplasty is a commonly performed and generally successful procedure, there are instances where a deviated septum may recur. This essentially means that the septum, once corrected, may gradually move back to its previous position after surgery. The reasons for this recurrence can be diverse and multifactorial. It’s important to understand these factors to manage expectations post-surgery.
One of the main causes of recurrence is the natural growth of the nasal septum, especially in younger patients. If the surgery is performed before the nose has finished growing (typically around age 15-16), there’s a chance that the septum will continue to grow and deviate again. Other factors such as trauma or injury to the nose after surgery can also lead to a recurrence of a deviated septum. In some cases, inadequate correction during the initial surgery could be a potential reason for recurrence.
The possibility of recurrence does not negate the positive impact that septoplasty can have on improving nasal obstruction and overall quality of life. It’s crucial to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider after surgery. They can monitor your recovery and check for any signs of recurrence. If you notice symptoms similar to those you experienced before surgery, such as difficulty breathing or recurring sinus infections, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform an examination to determine if there’s been a recurrence of the deviated septum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a deviated septum come back after surgery?
A: While it is possible for a deviated septum to recur after surgery, the chances are relatively low. The success rate of septoplasty is generally high, with most patients experiencing long-term improvements in nasal airflow. However, factors such as natural growth of the septum or subsequent trauma to the nose can contribute to recurrence. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider and addressing any concerns promptly can help manage the risk of recurrence.
Q: How long does it take to recover from deviated septum surgery?
A: The recovery time after deviated septum surgery can vary from person to person. Generally, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort for the first few days following the procedure. Most individuals can resume their normal activities within one to two weeks after surgery. However, it may take several weeks or even months for complete healing and resolution of symptoms. Your healthcare provider will provide specific post-operative instructions and guide you through the recovery process.
Q: Will insurance cover the cost of deviated septum surgery?
A: Insurance coverage for deviated septum surgery depends on various factors like your insurance plan and specific criteria set by your insurance company. Some insurance plans may cover the surgical treatment if it is deemed medically necessary to improve breathing and alleviate related symptoms. It is advisable to consult with your insurance company directly to understand your coverage details and any pre-authorization requirements that may be necessary before undergoing the procedure.
