Alright, I have a deviated septum, and it hasn't bugged me all my life, but now, it is. :( I know that it is, in fact, deviated, because my old doctor told my mom and I that we had pretty much the same shape, just a few minor differences. Same side, and everything.
I can't breathe most of the day, and it's not just allergy season (but I do have allergies, so that makes it worse). I take Zyrtec and Sudafed to try and clear myself up and that works a little bit, but I still find myself having trouble breathing. :( I get nosebleeds at least three times a week, usually more.
SO! Here's my questions:
I'm 18, so I know I'm still technically growing, should I wait?
Will it reverse if I get it done before I've stopped growing?
Is the surgery worth it overall?
Are you awake for the operation?
How much pain do you usually experience after the surgery?
And please share your overall experience!
Thank you in advance!
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
I had septoplasty several years ago. I was an adult, so I can't help you with the "growing" part. Your doctor should be able to answer that. It will not reverse itself, in any case.
I think the surgery is worth it. I used to get frequent and debilitating sinus infections because my sinuses could not drain freely. The headaches that came with them were blinding.
You are sound asleep for the surgery.
The pain isn't bad. You are more uncomfortable than in any real pain. The only real problem I had was falling asleep the first time after coming out of the anesthesia. Both sides of my nose were packed with gauze, and I was afraid I'd suffocate (I didn't). Once I fell asleep the first time, I had no problems.
The packing stays in about a week. It hurts when it is taken out, but that's only temporary.
Your nose will bleed lightly and be kind of scabby inside for a few days after. That's about it.
Have it done when you don't have to work or go to school for a week or so. You don't want to exert yourself or do anything strenuous.
Go ahead and have the surgery. It's a one-time inconvenience and you'll be glad you did for the rest of your life.
I wish you the very best of luck!
Septoplasty Experience
All I can do is give my 2 cents - I regret my septoplasty because it didn't solve my sinus issues at all, and it changed my appearance for the worse. Basically the exact opposite of what I wanted to happen (cure my sinus problems without affecting my appearance). So it's up to you, but I figured you should hear from people who regretted it as well so you don't have a far too optimistic and rosy view of it. You should know all the risks and make an informed decision. One of the risks is a change to your appearance, which may not be desirable.