Does septum necessarily deviate in time after septoplasty?

Question

Hi! I've read many texts saying that after having septoplasy the septum has deviated again with time (different times said from 1 to multiple years). Does the reason of having septoplasty affect the risk of septum deviating again (trauma vs genes)? Is there a chance it will stay as it is after surgery, and if not how many years are to be expected to deviation be renewed?

James Chan, MD · Answer

Septoplasty surgery can be highly successful in the right patient.  The septum is composed of cartilage and bone, and the cartilage portion can shift, or curve after surgery.  However, if care is taken to maintain the strength of the septum, and to support it appropriately, the septum can remain stable.  There are many additional reason why a patient may not be able to breathe after septoplasty and not al of these reasons are due to the septum shifting or re-blocking the airway.  I would recommend you see a facial plastic surgeon to get a personal consultation.

Julian W. Dixon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. In short, yes there are situations where the septum can re-warp to become closer to its original crooked position in the nose, however this certainly does not occur in every or even most septoplasties. The likely biggest contributor to the issue is how much septum is left behind or undisturbed. A more aggressive operation likely has less chance of re warping, however it may also have a slightly higher complication rate.

Does septum necessarily deviate in time after septoplasty?

Answers (2)

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