Whether due to accident or birth defect one of the most annoying and sometimes hazardous issues is what is known as a deviated septum. The septum is a partition in the nasal cavity that divides it into two separate air ways. If the septum deviates for any reason it can become serious enough in some instances that it impedes air flow and can cause chronic sinus issues. To alleviate this affliction there is a cosmetic surgery procedure known as septoplasty. In layman’s terms septoplasty means septum reshaping.

The procedure is performed in a few simple steps. First the patient must find a proper cosmetic surgeon to handle the surgery. This surgeon should have a great deal of experience in this process to avoid complications during and after the work. Five years in medical practice and two of those years spent as a cosmetic surgeon are the benchmarks to shoot for at the minimum. After the doctor is found and the surgery is discussed the procedure will be performed. Septoplasty involves using the open method of rhinoplasty.

The open method of rhinoplasty is performed by cutting the columnella and lightly lifting the skin of the nose so that the cosmetic surgeon can have access to the nasal cavity to the extent necessary to perform the operation. Once the operation begins the doctor will carve away bone and cartilage until typically only one centimeter’s width of material is left of the septum and it runs in a straight line down the center of the nasal cavity. To help support it extra cartilage or plastic implants may be added.

The typical side effects of this surgery include swelling and temporary numbness. There may also be a small scar underneath the nose that observant individuals might be able to see. The chance to breath normally and help alleviate chronic sinus issues is often considered a solid trade for a tiny scar, however.