Irvine residents who have had chronic breathing problems may be candidates for a septoplasty. This procedure can correct deviated septums, ensuring that each nostril is the same size. At OC Cosmetic Surgery Clinique in Orange County, California, we put the highest priority on making sure that our patients are perfectly happy with the look of their noses as well as with breathing patterns.
Irvine Septoplasty Procedure
A deviated septum, or the cartilage and tissue located between the nostrils, can be a birth defect or the result of an injury to the nose. Although some people do not have any problems due to this occurrence, some find that their breathing is affected enough to cause problems with their daily lives. For example, some have a constant feeling of stuffiness that is unrelated to nasal allergies in Irvine. Others find themselves using over-the-counter nasal sprays every day or prescription nasal sprays for longer than a week. Some struggle constantly with snoring or even sleep apnea. Any of these patients is excellent candidates for a consultation with our cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Tavoussi.
During a consultation, Dr. Tavoussi will completely inspect the individual’s nose to determine if an Irvine septoplasty is the right choice. He can also use our state-of-the-art digital computing technology to provide an example of how one’s nose will look following the procedure based on a current picture. He can also answer questions and show before and after pictures of previous septoplasty patients.
Using a series of expertly placed incisions within or through the nostrils, the surgeon will gain access to the inner septum and either move it slightly or remove a part of it to reattach it altogether. We use the Pacifica Outpatient Surgery Center just north of our Newport Beach Clinique location where patients can expect a secure, safe and modern environment. Irvine patients will be recovering here following surgery and will be able to go home the same day.
Irvine Septoplasty Recovery
It takes up to a week before patients will feel recovered enough to return to work. During this time, they will see the doctor several times for evaluations and to have any splints or external sutures that were used removed. Patients will also be instructed to avoid stress to the area by not blowing the nose, avoiding strenuous exercise and keeping the head elevated to reduce swelling. An Irvine septoplasty can greatly improve the quality of life by improving comfort, breathing, sleep and headaches.