Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct defects or deformities of the septum. The nasal septum is the separation between the two nostrils. In adults, it is composed of both cartilage and bone. The nasal septum has three functions: support the nose, regulate airflow, and support the mucous membranes of the nose. A septoplasty involves carefully elevating the coving layer of mucous membranes of the septum, removing the deviated portions of cartilage and bone, and sewing the mucous membranes back together. Only the crooked portions of the septum are removed. There are no visible incisions on the outside of the nose and no changes to the appearance of the nose. Patients who undergo a septoplasty can return home the same day after surgery. Talk to Dr. Brian Lee to see if a septoplasty can help improve your breathing.
