Breathing problems, Deviated Septum and Turbinates
Breathing problems may be attributed to various different factors.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum which is the thin wall between the nasal passage is displaced to one side making one nasal passage smaller.
When a deviated septum is severe it can block one side of your nose and reduce airflow causing difficulty breathing. A nasal blockage can occur from a deviated nasal septum as the tissues from the lining of the nose can swell.
Treatment of this may include medication to reduce the swelling but surgery (Endonasal septoplasty) is needed to correct a deviated septum.
For some a deviated septum is present at birth, or it may be caused by injury to the nose during a lifetime.
Turbinectomy or Nasal Airway Surgery
Turbinectomy or nasal airway surgery is the surgical reduction or removal of an enlarged turbinate (nasal tissue) inside the nose.
Turbinates are structures located inside the nose along the sides of the nasal cavities made of bone and are covered by soft tissue or “mucosa”. Their function is to regulate airflow and to warm and humidify air being breathed in.
Turbinectomy is almost always performed through the nostrils without the need for external incisions.
Both Septoplasty and Turbinectomy (also known as Turbinoplasty) are carried out principally to improve airflow or sinus drainage or may also be performed to control excessive nosebleeds.
There can be other causes of nasal obstruction which result in difficulties in breathing such as Internal and external valve collapse and these can be addressed by Rhinoplasty surgery and not Endonasal Septoplasty.
Patients who undergo nasal surgery to correct their breathing problems may also use the opportunity to address cosmetic concerns related to the appearance of the nose and therefore Rhinoplasty is often performed in conjunction with Septoplasty and / or Turbinectomy.
Nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are painless soft growths inside the nose, they are generally not serious, but they can keep growing and cause difficulties in breathing if not treated. They result from chronic inflammation and are associated with asthma, recurring infection, allergies, drug sensitivity or certain immune disorder.
Nasal polyps are more common in adults. If medication does not work in shrinking the polyps then surgery is necessary to remove them
Consultation
Your consultation for plastic surgery with Mr Ferrando is an important step in the process of considering and undergoing cosmetic or reconstructive procedures.
This initial meeting allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure. It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have. You will look at the “before and after” images of previous patients and get further information you need to make a decision.
Mr Ferrando will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He will then discuss all options suitable for you and explain each stage of the procedure or treatment. The exact procedure depends on the anatomy of the patient.
Our team believes that a well-informed, comfortable patient is one of the most important elements of the process. Whether you move forward with surgery or simply learn more, Dr Ferrando is looking forward to meeting you!
Procedure
Depending on the type of technique, open or closed rhinoplasty, Dr Ferrando will create a small, inconspicuous incision at the base of the nose across the columella. This affords him the most access and flexibility in addressing the internal structures of the nose.
In the case of closed procedure small incisions are made inside the nostrils, where they are hidden from view. A closed approach may be appropriate for those individuals requiring minimal to moderate changes in nasal structure.
Anaesthesia and length of the procedure
Recovery
After rhinoplasty, patients will need a friend or family member to escort them home and assist them for the first 24-48 hours. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness will peak during the first few days and then gradually subside.
Risks and Side Effects
All surgeries carry certain risks and even though they are rare you should be aware of them before making your decision. Mr Ferrando will talk you through any possible risks and side effects at his consultations as they will vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, age, condition and lifestyle.
During his procedures and treatments, he does everything possible to minimise the risk of complications by practicing a meticulously detailed approach and applying his world-class training background.
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This initial contact allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure.
It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have and get further information you need to make a decision.