At Poughkeepsie Facial, Plastic, Reconstructive and Laser Surgery, we see a wide range of patients for nasal airway issues such as nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing. The nasal airway is a structure composed of skin and cartilage that allows only a few millimeters for air to pass thru. Thus, it is very sensitive to changes in anatomy.
The septum is a piece of cartilage in the middle of the nose that separates the right from the left side. In some cases, the septum may be deviated to one side. If the septum causes an obstruction of one side of the nose, this can cause significant breathing problems.
Abnormalities of the nose may be congenital, inherited, caused by trauma, or prior surgery. Problems may be exacerbated by the presence of other nasal and sinus problems such as weak cartilage, enlarged turbinates or nasal allergies.
Patients often seek a consultation to improve their nasal breathing through Poughkeepsie septoplasty or Poughkeepsie rhinoplasty. Those who undergo surgery to improve nasal breathing may often desire to improve the appearance of the nose at the same time which is something done quite commonly.
Who is a Candidate for Septoplasty?
Healthy men and women seeking relief from nasal obstruction caused by a deformity of the bone and cartilage framework of the nose may be excellent candidates for septoplasty. During a consultation, an experienced surgeon will perform a facial analysis and work with you to help determine the best course of action that will deliver the most appealing results.
What is the Recovery like from Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis with most patients returning to the comfort of their own home a few hours after surgery. Septoplasty may be performed with moderate sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference. Small incisions, hidden under the nasal tip and within the nose, allow access to the cartilage and bone responsible for the shape and function of the nose. These structures are carefully adjusted to achieve the desired function and, in some cases, appearance of the nose. As each nose is unique in both appearance and function, the septoplasty and functional rhinoplasty procedures and techniques are planned to meet each patient’s individual needs. Sutures are used to close the incisions and a small external splint is placed. Internal splinting and packing are usually not necessary.
Length of recovery time depends on the complexity of the procedure and varies from patient to patient. Prescription pain medication is usually only required for the first few days. Mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling lasts about 7 to 10 days. Most patients are able to return to work, school, or other daily activities within about one week. Avoidance of contact sports is recommended for about one month after surgery. Our experienced surgeons reduce bruising and recovery time with the application of state-of-art techniques and the use of homeopathic or herbal options. Detailed postoperative and aftercare instructions will be provided to each patient.
Those patients considering septoplasty, or functional rhinoplasty, should carefully evaluate their surgeon’s credentials and training. Our doctors are Board Certified, with extensive knowledge to deliver the best cosmetic results while safeguarding proper breathing function.
To schedule a private consultation with the Hudson Valley, Westchester County and the Tri-State Area’s most experienced septoplasty head and neck surgeons, please contact our Concierge Patient Coordinators at (845) 454-8025 or email us at info@NYfaceMD.com
