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Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct and straighten a deviated septum. The nasal septum is the wall between the nostrils that separates the two nasal passages, supporting the nose and directing airflow.
The septum is made of thin bone in the back and cartilage in the front. A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage or bone is not straight. A crooked septum can make breathing difficult, potentially leading to snoring and sleep apnea.
It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.
If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.
The septoplasty process begins with a detailed consultation with our accomplished surgeon, Dr Zacharia. In this meeting, he will discuss your objectives, medical history, and evaluate the structure of your nose. He will examine both the external and internal aspects of your nose, possibly using a nasal speculum or endoscope for a more comprehensive view of the septum. This consultation is the ideal time for you to voice any concerns or ask any questions you may have about the procedure.
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.
When consent can be givenA patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).
Cooling-off PeriodThere must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.
Once a mutual agreement is reached on the surgical goals, you will be given specific preoperative instructions to prepare for your septoplasty. These instructions could include dietary guidelines, advice on alcohol and smoking, managing certain medications or supplements, and cleaning your nostrils.
The septoplasty operation usually takes between one to two hours and is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s comfort and the complexity of the surgery. The procedure involves making an incision inside the nostrils to access the septum – the structure separating the two nasal passages. The surgeon will then realign the septum to its proper position, potentially removing any excess cartilage or bone causing obstruction.
Following surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. Most patients are allowed to go home the same day, although sometimes an overnight hospital stay may be suggested. Nasal packing or splints may be placed inside your nose to support the newly aligned septum during the initial healing phase.
Swelling and nasal congestion are common after a septoplasty but will start to improve after a few days. Most patients are able to return to work or school after a week, depending on the nature of their work and individual recovery rate.
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and to ensure a smooth recovery process. It’s important to note that while you may notice improvements in breathing shortly after surgery, the final results of your septoplasty might not be fully apparent for up to a year, as it takes time for the nose to heal and adapt to its new structural alignment.
While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.
Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.
Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.
In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.
For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery
Your personalised quote will be prepared following an in-depth evaluation by our expert surgeon. This includes a thorough assessment of your individual needs, detailed explanation of the procedure, and a tailored approach to best achieve the desired outcomes. The quote considers various elements including surgical supplies, hospital requirements, and the specifics of the surgery itself.
Potential rebates might be available if the procedure is deemed medically necessary by relevant health authorities. Conditions for this include providing evidence supporting the medical necessity of the surgery and a referral from a healthcare professional. Your private health insurance may also provide coverage, so it’s essential to discuss this with your provider.
To find out more information about our procedures, or to book a consultation with one of our surgeons give us a call or complete the form.
