Deviated Septum Repair Chicago
- Introduction
- What Is a Deviated Septum?
- The Surgical Procedure
- Recovering from Surgery
- Septoplasty Costs
Introduction
Not all nose reshaping procedures are performed for aesthetic reasons. A portion of Dr. Gikas’s patients seek surgery for a practical reason: to correct a deviated or injured septum. A deviated septum makes it difficult to breathe freely through the nostrils, and can also cause other symptoms. Dr. Gikas performs a procedure called septoplasty, which repairs the septum and restores normal breathing function.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
The septum is an important part of the nasal anatomy. Made of thin bone and cartilage, it serves as the partition between the nostrils and separates the nasal passages. Ideally, it should be positioned in the center of the nasal passages. However, if the septum is displaced to one side, either as the result of a genetic deformity or trauma (e.g., a broken nose), it can block one side of the nose, interfere with airflow and cause other symptoms, including the following:
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Increased risk of nasal or sinus infections
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Postnasal drip
- Snoring or noisy breathing while sleeping
- Nasal congestion
The Surgical Procedure
Dr. Gikas varies his approach based on the patient’s unique nasal anatomy and specific need for correction. He usually employs a closed technique, limiting the incisions to the inside of the nostrils so there is no post-operative bruising or scarring from the incision lines.
Through the incisions, Dr. Gikas will remove or shift the cartilage or bone that is blocking the nasal passage. Once he has straightened the septum, he will place a nasal splint to support the modified nasal structures.
Dr. Gikas may perform a combination septoplasty-rhinoplasty to simultaneously correct a deviated septum and improve aesthetic flaws of the nose (for example, straightening a bump on the bridge or refining a droopy or upturned tip).
Recovering from Surgery
Recovering from septoplasty is similar to recovering from rhinoplasty performed for aesthetic reasons. The nose may be swollen and tender after surgery, but these side effects will dissipate with time. It’s crucial to get as much rest as possible and avoid any strenuous activities in the days following surgery, allowing the body to heal at its own pace. Dr. Gikas will schedule several post-operative visits to check the healing progress, and to remove the nasal splint. He will also advise when it is safe to return to work or school.
Septoplasty Costs
The cost of septoplasty varies by patient, depending on his or her individual case and specific needs. Dr. Gikas or our office manager will provide a quote after the initial consultation. For more detailed information about septoplasty pricing, please contact our office.
Schedule a Septoplasty Consultation
If you or a loved one needs to have a deviated septum repaired, Chicago nose surgeon Elias Gikas can help. Please call (773) 878-6525 to schedule a consultation with him and discuss the procedure in greater detail.