Septal perforation repair is a highly specialized procedure performed to treat a hole in the nasal septum — the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils. These perforations may cause discomfort, bleeding, crusting, breathing issues, or cosmetic deformities if left untreated.
Dr. Ali Totonchi, a board-certified plastic surgeon by american board of plastic surgery in Cleveland, Lyndhurst and Westlake Ohio, offers advanced septal perforation repair techniques designed to restore nasal function, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. With extensive experience in nasal surgery and reconstructive procedures, Dr. Totonchi carefully evaluates each patient’s condition and recommends a treatment plan tailored to the underlying cause and the size of the perforation.
What Is a Septal Perforation?
The nasal septum is made of thin bone and cartilage that rely on a steady blood supply to remain healthy. A perforation occurs when the blood supply is disrupted; the tissue then breaks down and dies, leaving a hole in the septum.
Septal perforations may develop for several reasons, including prior nasal surgery, trauma, nasal picking, chronic infections, autoimmune conditions, cocaine use, and certain cancers or systemic diseases. Symptoms vary but often involve nasal congestion, crusting, bleeding, whistling during breathing, or changes in the shape of the nose.
Why Repair a Septal Perforation?
Small septal perforations may cause minimal symptoms, but larger perforations often lead to ongoing discomfort and functional issues. You may experience airflow disruption, recurrent nosebleeds, painful crusting, or visible nose deformities over time.
In advanced cases, the bridge of the nose may collapse, causing a “saddle-nose” deformity. Repairing the perforation restores septal stability, reduces symptoms, and prevents further structural damage. Even those with smaller perforations who experience frequent whistling or irritation may benefit from surgical correction.
How Is Septal Perforation Repaired?
Septal perforation repair requires precise technique and careful planning. Surgery typically involves using tissue from inside the nose, ribs, ear or other parts of the body or cadaveric sourse to patch or reconstruct the damaged area.
Dr. Totonchi may create local mucosal flaps inside the nose to cover the perforation, or he may use grafts such as cartilage, fascia, or other biologic materials to support long-term healing.
The goal is to restore separation between the nasal passages and re-establish a stable blood supply to the repaired tissue. Surgical approach depends on the perforation’s size, location, and underlying cause, and may be performed alone or combined with functional or cosmetic nasal procedures when appropriate.
What to Expect After Septal Perforation Repair
Following surgery, Dr. Totonchi typically places a small stent inside the nose to protect the repair and support healing. This stent remains in place for about 2-4 weeks before removal in the office.
You can expect mild drainage, congestion, and pressure during the initial healing period. Complete recovery generally takes two to three weeks, although internal healing continues for several months.
Dr. Totonchi provides detailed postoperative instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activity, refraining from blowing the nose, and keeping the surgical area moisturized with recommended ointments or saline sprays. Careful adherence to these guidelines is essential to ensure proper healing and protect the repair.
Why Choose Dr. Totonchi?
Repairing a septal perforation requires experience in both nasal structure and advanced reconstructive techniques. As a board-certified plastic surgeon and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Totonchi has extensive training in nasal anatomy, functional repair, and complex revision cases. He uses refined surgical methods tailored to the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and goals. His commitment to precision, patient education, and long-term care ensures a thoughtful and effective approach to every repair.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms related to a septal perforation, relief is achievable. Dr. Totonchi provides expert evaluation and advanced repair options for patients throughout Cleveland, Lyndhurst, and Westlake. To schedule your consultation, contact our offices at (440) 461-7999 and learn more about your treatment options.
