Septoplasty for a Deviated Nasal Septum

The nasal septum is the structure separating the two sides of the nose.

When the septum is significantly deviated, it can contribute to persistent nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing through the nose.

Septoplasty is surgery to straighten the nasal septum.

The procedure is normally performed internally through the nose and is designed to improve the nasal airway.

Septoplasty may sometimes be combined with turbinate reduction or other nasal procedures when more than one anatomical factor is contributing to nasal obstruction.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Sinusitis

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to improve drainage and ventilation of the sinuses.

It may be considered for appropriately selected patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, recurrent sinusitis or nasal polyps when appropriate medical treatment has not provided sufficient relief.

The surgeon uses an endoscope through the nostrils to access the sinus passages without external facial incisions.

The purpose is to open narrowed or blocked sinus drainage pathways and, where necessary, remove obstructing tissue such as polyps.

NHS guidance describes FESS as an established surgical treatment for selected patients with chronic sinusitis when symptoms persist despite medical management.

Balloon Treatment for Selected Sinus Problems

Balloon sinuplasty is a technique used in selected patients with sinus disease.

A small balloon catheter is introduced into an appropriate sinus drainage pathway and inflated to widen the passage.

It is not suitable for every patient with sinusitis. Careful assessment is required to determine the underlying anatomy and disease pattern before deciding whether balloon treatment is appropriate.

Where surgery is being considered, the benefits, limitations and alternatives should be discussed individually.

Treatment for Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are non-cancerous inflammatory swellings arising from the lining of the nose and sinuses.

They can cause:

• Persistent nasal blockage
• Reduced or lost sense of smell
• Runny nose
• Post-nasal mucus
• Facial pressure
• Difficulty breathing through the nose

Treatment commonly starts with appropriate medical therapy. In selected patients with persistent or obstructive disease, endoscopic nasal polypectomy and sinus surgery may be considered.

Surgery can remove obstructing polyps and improve access for ongoing topical medical treatment.

Functional and Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is surgery to alter the shape and structure of the nose.

It may be performed for functional reasons, cosmetic concerns or a combination of both.

Functional nasal surgery may address structural problems contributing to nasal obstruction, while cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on the external shape and proportions of the nose.

A detailed consultation is essential to understand the patient’s concerns, nasal anatomy and realistic surgical objectives.