Rhinoplasty plastic surgery is an effective treatment for a deviated septum helping restore the normal function of the nose. The surgeon will determine the nature and extent of the deviated septum, and subsequently, develop an individualized surgical plan to correct the condition.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) provides rhinoplasty to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding locations.
What is Septum Deviation?
The septum bifurcates the nasal cavity into two narrow passageways that start at the upper part of the nose, where it connects to the nostrils. The septum consists of many sections of bone and cartilage.
The lower portion of the septum is located on the anterior nasal spine. This bone offers support to the structure and can be felt in the site where the nose links to the upper lip.
Septum deviation is the shifting or development of the septum to one side of the nasal cavity rather than dividing the cavity into two identical passageways.
The septum can bow out forming a C-shape or bend to one side in an S-shape. These deviations in the septum can impede air flow. Over time, this can lead to damage to the fragile nasal tissues.
A deviated septum can result from nasal injury or may be present since birth. Regardless of the cause, it can lead to breathing impediments. A deviated septum can also cause facial pain and nosebleeds.
How is Septal Deviation Treated?
To correct a septal deviation, the surgeon will work on either the bony upper portion of the septum that sits atop the nose or the cartilage in the lower part of the nose.
The septum may also move off the anterior spine (caudal septal deviation). To treated caudal septal deviation, the surgeon will move the septum back to its proper position and shift its base on to the anterior nasal spine.
Septoplasty Procedure
This cosmetic surgery involves either reshaping the cartilaginous lower portion or the bony upper part of the septum. Certain patients experience a condition known as a caudal septal deviation where the septum moves off the anterior nasal spine. The nose surgeon will correct this septal shift and realign its base to the anterior nasal spine to address this condition.
The surgeon starts the procedure by placing an incision on one side of the nose to access the septum. Subsequently, they will carefully move the deviated septum back to its proper position as well as eliminate any impediments such as useless bone fragments or cartilage. Finally, the nose surgeon will reposition the mucous membrane.
The patient may require stitches to help the membrane and septum stay in their place. Sometimes, placing a cotton pack in the nose is all that is needed for the membrane and septum to remain in their position.
Recovery
Septoplasty is an outpatient procedure, and a majority of patients can return home on the day of the surgery itself. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Q receives patients from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.
To learn more about the plastic surgery treatments and procedures performed by Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) please contact us at 760-324-2660. To learn more about Dr. Q’s Medical Spa please visit drqmedicalspa.com
Schedule a Consultation: (760) 537.4579