SeptoplastyA septoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. It involves making a small incision just inside the nose to gain access to the bone and cartilage of the middle wall of the nose or septum. By correcting any septal deviations or deformities, one improves the nasal airway relieving stuffiness and in some people recurring sinus infections. Some individuals require a septoplasty as part of additional surgery to gain access to the sinus passageways for removal of polyps, growths, and to control bleeding. The procedure lasts about 25 minutes. Recovery time is generally 7-10 days at home after which Dr. Speyer will see you to remove any splints inside the nose. It is after this visit that one notices the greatest improvement with breathing. The reasons you should be considering this procedure will be discussed with Dr. Speyer prior to scheduling. All of the possible indications are too many to list here and should be reviewed with Dr. Speyer with regards to your specific needs. Dr. Speyer will discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives to this procedure with you in detail. Listed below are some of the disclosed risks of undergoing a septoplasty. By reading and signing below, you are stating that you indeed understand the nature of the procedure, the risks as listed, and alternatives to undergoing the procedure. Risks of septoplasty include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, nasal synechia (scar bands), septal perforation, a decreased sense of smell, temporary front teeth pain and/or numbness, failure to improve nasal stuffiness, nasal crusting, and very rarely a change in the external appearance of the nose. Lastly, since you are undergoing a general anesthetic, this alone carries its own risks regardless of the surgery considered. The risks of general anesthesia include, but are not limited to, the risk of heart attack, stroke, drug reactions, and even death. You should discuss your specific risks assessment with the anesthesiologist during your preoperative anesthetic appointment.
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