Functional Rhinoplasty Procedures: Correcting a Deviated Septum

Rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery is an effective solution to correct a deviated septum to restore normal nasal function. The surgeon will assess the extent and nature of the septal deviation, and then develop a customized surgical plan to address the condition.

plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim provides rhinoplasty to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities.

What is Septum Deviation?

The septum divides the nasal cavity into two narrow airways that start at the upper portion of the nose, where it attaches to the nostrils. The septum is made up of various sections of cartilage and bone.

The lower part of the septum is located on the anterior nasal spine. This bone supports the structure, and it can be felt in the area where the nose connects to the upper lip.

Septal deviation refers to the shifting or development of the septum to one side of the nasal cavity instead of dividing it into two identical airways.

The septum may bow outwards in a C-shape or bend to one side in an S-shape. These septal deviations can lead to impediments in airflow, and damage the delicate nasal tissues over time.  

A deviated septum may occur due to a nasal injury or may be present in an individual since birth. Septal deviation can impede breathing, regardless of the reason for its development. It can also lead to nosebleeds and facial pain.

How is Septal Deviation Treated?

The surgeon will either work on the bony upper part of the septum above the nose or the cartilaginous lower portion of the septum to correct a deviated septum.  

The septum may also shift off the anterior nasal spine in a condition known as caudal septal deviation. The treatment of this condition will involve moving the septum back to its correct position and shifting its base on to the anterior nasal spine.

Septoplasty Procedure

In this plastic surgery procedure, the surgeon either reshapes the bony upper portion of the septum or the cartilaginous lower portion. If the patient has a caudal septal deviation, the rhinoplasty surgeon will address the septal shift and realign its base on the anterior nasal spine.

The surgeon will commence this procedure by making an incision on one side of the nose to gain access to the septum. After this, they will cautiously shift the deviated septum back to its correct position. In addition, they will also remove impediments such as unwanted bone pieces and cartilage. The nose surgeon will eventually re-position the mucous membrane in this procedure.

In some cases, the patient may need sutures to ensure that the septum and membrane remain in their new position. Sometimes, placing a cotton pack within the nose is sufficient to ensure that the membrane and septum stay in position.

Recovery

Septoplasty is undertaken as outpatient surgery. Therefore, most patients are able to return home on the day of the procedure itself. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.