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Nasal septal perforation, a hole or opening in the nasal septum, can be a challenging condition, impacting both nasal function and quality of life. At NJ ENT, our team of highly skilled Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals dealing with septal perforations.
Septal Perforation Symptoms
Without a proper septum, you may experience a variety of symptoms such as a whistling noise when breathing, breathing difficulty, recurrent sinus infections, recurrent epistaxis (nosebleeds), post-nasal drip and decreased sense of smell. Facial pain or discomfort in the nose area and recurring sinus infections may also be indicators of a torn septum.
Causes of Perforated Nasal Septum
The cause of septal perforation in most cases is usually from having previous nasal surgery. Other causes can include using topical medications and drugs or more rarely by some connective tissue diseases.
Surgical intervention is typically recommended for septal perforations larger than 3mm in size. When septal perforation is left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications, such as permanent changes in the shape of the nose or difficulty breathing. If you think you might have septal perforation, it’s important that you call NJ ENT for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Septal Perforation Consultation
Our approach begins with a thorough examination to assess the size, location, and potential causes of the septal perforation. A physical examination is the first step, which may include a nasal endoscopy to assess the size and shape of the septal perforation. Imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans may be used to evaluate the extent of septal damage and to plan for surgical repair if necessary. We recognize that each case is unique, and treatment plans are tailored to individual needs.
Perforation Repair Surgery
The goal of surgery is to close the septal opening using tissue grafts or septal buttons made out of silicon or acrylic, and medications are often prescribed during recovery time to reduce inflammation and infection if present. In some cases, septal plugs may be used to block the openings in order to reduce airflow through the septum.
Non-Surgical Options
For smaller perforations, conservative measures may be explored, including the use of saline nasal sprays, lubricating ointments, or nasal septal buttons to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Septal Perforations Recovery
After septal perforation surgery, follow-up care is essential to ensure that the septal opening has been repaired properly and all symptoms have resolved. During recovery, medications are typically prescribed to reduce inflammation and infection if present. Nasal sprays may be used to improve airflow through the nose and encourage healing of the septum.
Limiting activity is important during recovery time in order to give your body time to heal properly. In addition, most physicians recommend avoiding air travel for at least one month after septal repair as this can increase your risk for complications such as infection or a septal hematoma (collection of blood under the septum). Finally, it is important to stay in close contact with your physician at NJ ENT during recovery time as septal perforations can get worse if left untreated.
Why Choose NJ ENT For Your ENT Needs?
Meet Dr. Reddy and Dr. Smith–
Board-Certified Otolaryngologists, ENT, Rhinology & Sinus Specialists
Specializing in the medical and surgical management of various diseases of the head and neck including nose and sinus disorders, ear conditions, throat and voice conditions, sleep conditions, and allergies. Meet your award winning and trusted ENT doctors in Marlton, New Jersey
How We Can Help
Ultimately, septal perforation can be a serious condition. However, with prompt diagnosis and treatment, septal perforation can be successfully managed and any complications avoided. The NJ ENT team has performed thousands of procedures and surgeries. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.
Our doctors at NJ ENT are expertly trained in all areas of ENT care and are considered experts in their field. If you have any questions about Revision Rhinoplasty or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you achieve your desired outcome.
Septal Perforation FAQs
Many times a septal perforation procedure is typically covered by insurance. However if not it can range anywhere from 100’s of dollars to $16,000 for surgery, hospital and anesthesia.
This will depend on the size of the perforation and the type of surgery performed. The process can take from several weeks to a few months. Your doctor will help you navigate the healing timeline and follow-up care.
Septal perforations are relatively uncommon, but there are individuals more at risk of experiencing them, such as those who previously had nasal surgery, trauma, chronic nasal spray usage, and more.
There is a chance that small nasal perforations heal on their own, but there is no guarantee. For larger perforations, surgery or medical assistance is necessary.
NJ ENT is a trusted leader for providing complete ear, nose, and throat care
Our highly rated physicians are experts in their field and offer a wide range of services to meet all of your ENT needs.
Explore Our Full Range of ENT and Plastic Surgery Services
For those in need of comprehensive ENT care beyond septal perforation treatment, NJ ENT offers a variety of specialized services that cater to both functional and aesthetic needs. From advanced surgical techniques to non-invasive treatments, our expert team is equipped to handle all aspects of ENT care. Discover how we can help you enhance your health and well-being by visiting our Plastic Surgery Services page.
