Septal Perforation

Septal perforation is a hole in the cartilage or bone that divides the two nasal cavities. There are a number of causes, including trauma, overusing nasal spray, use of cocaine, infections, and certain diseases.

The common causes of septal perforations include trauma to the nose, such as from an injury, surgery, or even prolonged use of nasal decongestant sprays. Chronic conditions like cocaine use can also lead to the development of septal perforations due to the drug’s harmful effects on the nasal lining.

Crusting in the nose, whistling while breathing, nosebleeds, foul-smelling discharge, and nasal obstruction are some of the most common symptoms of septal perforation. In more severe cases, you may develop a saddle nose deformity where there is a dip in the bridge of the nose.

Your doctor will examine the inside of the nose using a nasal speculum or endoscope to get a clear view of the septum.

The type of septal perforation treatment available depends on the size of the perforation. The non-surgical treatment options include antibiotic creams, humidification, and saline rinses. Surgical options consist of surgery to repair the hole or the insertion of a prosthetic button to fill the hole.

Surgery is not always necessary to correct a septal perforation. We advise closure for enlarging perforations and symptomatic perforations.

Septal perforation surgery, is performed through open septorhinoplasty and moving the lining of the nose on each side to close the hole.

It can take about 1-2 weeks for most patients to recover from septal perforation repair surgery. That said, it can depend on the size of the perforation, the treatment used, and how well you stick to your aftercare instructions.

Our success rate is over 95% for perforations smaller than 3 cm. This is one of the higher successful closure rates in the world. Many other series/clinics have closures rates of 40-60%

Surgery is typically recommended for a septal perforation to decrease the symptoms associated with the perforation or stop the perforation enlarging. rnDr. Faris will examine your nose and nasal structures and recommend the best treatment option for your needs.

There are open and closed surgical procedures that are used to repair a septal reformation. An open surgery is used for larger perforations and may include the use of grafts, flaps, and incisions made on the outside of the nose. Closed perforation surgery involves incisions being made inside the nose.

Generally one surgery is required, but in some very large perforations two surgeries may be needed. Dr. Faris will discuss your surgical plan with you during your consultation.

As with any surgery, a septal perforation repair comes with some risks and complications. Some of the risks include failure to close the perforation, bleeding, infection, changes in nasal sensation, rejection of the graft material, and airway problems.

Absolutely, a surgical repair can restore the function of your nose (including your ability to breathe) and rejuvenate the appearance of your nose as well. Based on your goals, Dr. Faris will build a customized treatment plan that meets all your needs.