How common is a septal perforation after septoplasty and how can it be treated?

The short answer to this question is: it is not common. However, septal perforation can happen and is more likely to be a risk for those with a history of nose surgery and/or those with a severely damaged or deviated septum. If you are considering a septoplasty and are concerned about the risks of a septal perforation, it is important to understand some basics facts about the anatomy and septal repair.

Nose surgery and septal perforations. Overall, a septoplasty is considered a safe procedure. Although it is commonly performed, it is also a very delicate surgery, which requires numerous skills. Occasionally, a septoplasty procedure can result in a complication and, in rare instances, cause a septal perforation. It is important to note that a septal perforation is generally more likely to occur in the case of a revision surgery (a secondary septoplasty) or when a patient suffers from a severe deviated septum.

If a septal perforation does occur after surgery, it is important to have it evaluated and treated. If left untreated, a septal perforation can worsen and become more complicated to repair. A variety of treatments are available, depending on the location, size, and severity of the septal perforation. Minor septal perforations may respond to therapeutic treatments, such as emollients, and may not need to be repaired. Some surgeons may recommend plugging the perforation with a silicone prosthesis called a septal button. However, these buttons can irritate the lining around the perforation, leading to further complications and, for that reason, are not recommended by Drs. Solieman and Litner. For more complicated cases, surgery may be necessary to close the perforation.

Although a septal perforation can be the result of complications from nose surgery, such as a septoplasty, the overall risk of developing one is low. If your doctor determines that your septal perforation needs repair, it is better to address it than not have it treated. The risk of inaction can outweigh the risk of treatment. However, be sure to see a surgeon who has a track record of successfully treating patients with septal perforations.

If you suspect you have septal perforation or have already been diagnosed with one, it is best to have your nose fully evaluated and treated by surgeons with expertise in septal perforation repair. With specialized training and impressive case histories, Drs. Litner and Solieman are uniquely qualified in this area of nose repair. Contact them at their office at Profiles Beverly Hills to schedule a consultation.