Septoplasty (Nasal Septum Deviation Correction)

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting deformities, deviations, or asymmetry of the nasal septum. The nasal septum is a cartilage-and-bone structure that divides the nasal cavity into two halves. When it is significantly deviated, it narrows one or both nasal passages, restricting normal breathing.

Indications: When is a Septoplasty Needed?

An ENT specialist recommends septoplasty for patients suffering from:

• Chronic Nasal Obstruction: A persistent feeling of a blocked nose that does not respond to nasal drops or sprays.

• Recurrent Sinus Infections: A deviated septum blocks the natural drainage of the sinuses, creating ideal conditions for chronic inflammation.

• Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Impaired nasal breathing forces the patient to mouth-breathe during sleep, leading to snoring, sleep disruption, and morning headaches.

• Chronic Nosebleeds (Epistaxis): The deviated segment causes localized dryness of the mucosa, making blood vessels fragile and prone to bleeding.

Procedures at MBAL Varna

• Preoperative Preparation: Routine laboratory blood tests and an anesthesiology consultation are performed. A baseline evaluation of the nasal anatomy via anterior rhinoscopy or nasal endoscopy is often required.

• Anesthesia: The operation is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring maximum patient comfort and allowing the surgical team to work with high precision.

• Surgical Technique: The procedure is performed entirely endonasally—meaning inside the nostrils—leaving no external facial incisions or visible scars. The surgeon makes a small incision in the internal mucosa, lifts it from the cartilage and bone, reshapes or repositions the deviated sections (or removes bony spurs), and repositions the mucosa.

• Nasal Packing: Special soft nasal packs are placed in both nostrils to stabilize the septum in its new alignment and prevent bleeding.

• Duration: The procedure takes between 45 and 60 minutes.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

Patients typically stay in the ENT inpatient unit for 24 to 48 hours.

• Removal of Nasal Packing: The nasal packing is gently removed by the surgeon, usually the day after surgery, providing immediate breathing relief.

• Postoperative Period: Mild mucosal swelling and minor discharge are normal during the first few days. Healing nasal sprays or ointments are prescribed to soothe the nasal lining.

• Recovery: Full functional recovery and optimal breathing efficiency are achieved within 10 to 14 days. Strenuous physical exercise and hot baths should be avoided during this period.

The surgery at MBAL Varna is covered under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) for insured patients upon presentation of a Hospitalization Referral Form No. 7.