Nasal Surgery in Delhi, India | Types, Procedure & Risks

Nasal surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at altering the shape and size of the nose. The procedure involves making incisions on the inside or outside of the nose and reshaping the cartilage and bone to achieve the desired outcome. The surgery can take anywhere from one to four hours. It includes many procedures like:

• Functional procedures to improve breathing include septoplasty, turbinoplasty, and endoscopic sinus surgery.
• Cosmetic procedures such as Rhinoplasty.
• Procedures to reach the skull base include nasal endoscopic correction of CSF rhinorrhoea or approach to the pituitary gland.

Why is Nasal Surgery Performed?

The procedure is performed for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Aesthetic reasons include changing the size, shape, or angle of the nose to enhance facial harmony and balance. Functional reasons include correcting breathing problems caused by a deviated septum or other structural abnormalities.

In addition to cosmetic and functional reasons, the surgery can also be performed to repair injuries, correct congenital defects or trauma to the nose, and address the effects of ageing.

Conditions Treated with Nasal Surgery

It treats conditions such as:

• Deviated Septum: This occurs when the wall that separates the nostrils is crooked or displaced, making it difficult to breathe.
• Nasal Congestion: Chronic nasal congestion can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, sinusitis, and nasal polyps.
• Nosebleeds: Recurrent nosebleeds can be caused by a variety of factors, including structural abnormalities or dryness.
• Nasal Fractures: Trauma to the nose can cause a broken nose or other injuries that require surgical correction.
• Nasal Tumours: Benign or malignant tumours can develop in the nasal cavity, requiring surgical removal.

Who Requires Nasal Surgery?

The right candidate for nasal surgery is someone who is physically healthy and has realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. Candidates should also have a fully developed nose, which typically occurs by age 15 or 16.

It is important to have a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss the specific reasons for seeking surgery and to determine the best course of treatment. 

Types of Nasal Surgery

• Septoplasty: This surgery is done to correct a deviated septum, which can cause breathing difficulties and snoring.
• Rhinoplasty: It is also known as a nose job; this surgery is done for cosmetic purposes to reshape or resize the nose.
• Turbinate Reduction: It reduces the size of the turbinates, which are bony structures inside the nose that can obstruct breathing.
• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: This is done to treat chronic sinusitis by removing blockages and improving the flow of mucus.
• Nasal Polypectomy: This surgery removes polyps, which are small growths that can block the nasal passages and cause breathing difficulties.

Procedure for Nasal Surgery

• Anesthesia: The patient will be given general or local anaesthesia, depending on the type of surgery and the patient's medical history.
• Incisions: The surgeon will make small incisions inside or outside the nose, depending on the type of surgery.
• Reshaping or Removal: The surgeon will reshape or remove the necessary structures inside or outside the nose.
• Closure: The incisions will be closed with stitches or dissolvable sutures.

Preparations for Nasal Surgery

• Medical History: The doctor will take your medical history and will ask about your current medications.
• Testing: The surgeon may advise to undergo CT scan to plan surgery.
• Medications: The patient may need to stop taking blood thinners and some other medications before the surgery.
• Fasting: The patient will need to fast for a certain period of time before the surgery, depending on the type of anaesthesia used.
• Transportation: The patient will need to arrange for transportation home after the surgery, as they may not be able to drive.

Risks or Complications of Nasal Surgeryy

Here are some of the most common ones:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection after the surgery, which can be prevented by following your surgeon's instructions on wound care and taking any prescribed antibiotics.
• Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after the surgery, but in the case of excessive bleeding, take medical advice immediately.
• Scarring: While nasal surgery is designed to improve the appearance of the nose, there is a risk of scarring. Your surgeon will work to minimise any visible scars and ensure a natural-looking result.
• Anaesthesia Complications: The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which carries its own risks.
• Breathing Difficulties: In rare cases, the surgery can result in breathing difficulties.

Preventions Need to Take After Surgery

To prevent complications and promote healing after nasal surgery, patients should follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions closely. Here are some general guidelines:

• Keep the head elevated: Elevating the head while sleeping can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Take pain medication as prescribed: This surgery can be uncomfortable, but pain medication can help manage the discomfort.

Why Choose Max Healthcare for the Surgery?

Max Healthcare is a leading provider of nasal surgery in India. Our team of internationally renowned surgeons uses state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure safe and effective outcomes. We also provide comprehensive pre and post-operative care to help patients achieve the best possible results. Contact us to learn more about our nasal surgery services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nasal Surgery

How painful is Nasal Surgery?
It can be uncomfortable but is generally not considered to be painful. The level of discomfort can depend on the type of procedure and the patient's pain tolerance. Patients typically experience discomfort for a few days after the surgery, and pain medications are prescribed to manage the pain.

What are the types of Nasal Surgery?
There are several types, including septoplasty, rhinoplasty, turbinate reduction, sinus surgery, and polypectomy. Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum, rhinoplasty reshapes the nose for cosmetic or functional purposes, turbinate reduction reduces the size of the nasal turbinates, sinus surgery treats sinusitis, and polypectomy removes polyps.

Is nose surgery safe?
It is generally safe, but as with any surgery, there are risks involved. The risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia.

How much does Nasal Surgery cost?
The cost varies depending on the type of procedure that is appropriate and the patient's condition.

How long does it take to heal after nasal surgery?
The recovery time depends on the type of procedure. Generally, patients can expect swelling and bruising to last for a few days to a week, and full recovery can take several weeks to several months.

Does nose surgery have side effects?
It can have side effects, including swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

What is the success rate of nasal surgery?
The success rate depends on the type of procedure and the individual case. Rhinoplasty has a success rate of around 85%, while septoplasty has a success rate of around 90%.

How do I know that I need Nasal Surgery?
If you experience difficulty breathing through your nose, chronic sinus infections, snoring, or an injury that has affected the appearance or function of your nose, you may need surgery. 

Reviewed by Dr. Gita Gangadharan Shrivastav Senior Consultant - ENT Department ENT(Ear Nose Throat)