Septoplasty

While patients often turn to medications at first to get the relief they need from sleep problems, sinus headaches, and allergies, pills do not address the underlying causes of the problem. Septoplasty, by contrast, provides long-term, significant improvement in the patient’s breathing, enhancing comfort and well-being. Benefits of septoplasty in Chicago include:

• Improves airflow through the nose
• Enhances the quality of your sleep
• Corrects asymmetry inside the nose
• Removes nasal blockage
• Heals chronic sinusitis
• Reduces the risk of nosebleeds
• Improves your sense of smell
• Elevates overall quality of life
• It can be performed in tandem with cosmetic rhinoplasty

Not every patient with a deviated septum will want or need septoplasty. However, for those whose daily lives are negatively impacted by functional issues with their nose, the surgery can be an excellent solution, providing profound improvements. If you struggle with any of the following, you may be an ideal candidate for septoplasty performed by Dr. Shastri in Chicago, IL:

• Chronic sinus infections and sinusitis
• Recurring problems breathing through one side of your nose
• Headaches and facial pain
• Congestion that keeps you awake at night
• Sleep apnea or insomnia
• Snoring that wakes you or your partner up
• Upper respiratory issues
• Injuries or trauma to the nose

Dr. Shastri and his experienced team will meet with you for a private consultation to ensure you are a good candidate for surgery. They will delve into your medical history, review your current medications, and complete a detailed physical assessment. Good candidates are healthy non-smokers who have a realistic idea of what to expect from their surgery.

During your septoplasty procedure in Chicago, you will be placed under general anesthesia, resting peacefully without any pain or discomfort. The surgery can last from one to three hours, depending on the extent of the changes required to improve your breathing. If you opt to undergo cosmetic rhinoplasty at the same time as septoplasty, your procedure time may be extended accordingly.

To begin, Dr. Shastri will create a small incision at the base of the nose across the columella (thin strip of skin separating the nostrils.) Next, he will adjust the bone and cartilage inside the nose, resolving asymmetry, clearing blockages, and opening up your nasal passageways to enhance your breathing. Once all revisions have been completed, Dr. Shastri will close your incision using advanced suturing techniques.

Patients can return home the same day after their septoplasty procedure, accompanied by a friend, helper, or family member. The nose will be bandaged, with packing placed inside each nostril. A splint may also be attached to help the nose maintain its shape while it heals. Packing is typically removed within a few days, while the splint is taken off after around seven days. Patients can expect moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort that will peak in the first postoperative week and then gradually lessen with time. Due to residual swelling, it can sometimes take several months for patients to witness their final results.

Dr. Shastri will prescribe the appropriate pain medications to make sure your recovery journey is comfortable and manageable. While you will be able to return to work within a few weeks, you must continue to avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks after your Chicago septoplasty. Don’t blow your nose, take large yawns, or sneeze for the first week of your recovery. Should any concerns arise, Dr. Shastri and his team remain available to you around the clock.