Many people often struggle with sleeping comfortably at night or nose obstruction that they cannot explain. Frequently these symptoms indicate a deviated septum which is a very common issue affecting hundreds of people. The condition itself is not dangerous, but can be distracting and uncomfortable.

What is a deviated septum?

In a normal nose, the septum is a band of cartilage that separates the two nasal cavities. It allows for normal airflow and keeps the shape  of your nose. A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage is out of line. This misalignment can cause a variety of symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, and frequent sinus infections. A deviated septum can disrupt your sleep making staying awake and alert during the day difficult. Although this may be a common condition, it does not mean that it is any less debilitating. Fortunately, there are many resources and options for you if you are considering correcting your deviated septum. Dr. Pamela Henderson currently provides surgical options for correcting your deviated septum in Scottsdale and surrounding areas.

How is the surgery performed?

Dr. Henderson will examine your nose and face during the preliminary appointment to determine if a deviated septum is the primary cause of your symptoms. Together you will discuss treatment options and determine which course meets your aesthetic goals and is medically secure.   If desired, this procedure can be comined with a cosmetic rhinoplasty to alter the external appearance of the nose.  She performs all of her procedures on an outpatient basis so that you do not have to stay overnight.

During the day of the procedure, you will be administered a general or sedation anesthetic so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. It also helps reduce any underlying anxiety about having surgery. During the procedure, she will make one small incision on one side of the nose and gently access the septum. There she will take the septum tissue and move it back into place. This procedure takes anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour and a half to complete.

Once finished, she will close the incision with miniscule sutures so that there is no scarring afterwards. She may give you an internal nose splint or packing material that will prevent nosebleeds. Dr. Henderson operates in such a precise manner that you should experience minimal discomfort after the procedure.

What is the healing process after the procedure?

After you have your procedure, healing takes a few days to a couple of weeks.  Nasal congestion following the procedure is common due to swelling which gradually improves.  During the recovery time, you should avoid blowing your nose with too much force, drastic altitude changes, sneezing through your nose and any strong force applied to your face. Healing takes very little time and Dr. Henderson will monitor you during your recovery to ensure that you heal while avoiding complications.

If you are tired of having a deviated septum interrupting your life, Dr. Henderson can help you regain your sleep and life with her corrective surgery. You can contact her office at (480) 596-6886 or contact online to learn more and see her results. Place your nose in the skilled hands of Dr. Henderson today.