Having a perforated septum is relatively rare. It is a low risk after septoplasty surgery, estimated to be less than 1%. There are many factors which increase the risk of developing a hole in the septum:
- revision nasal surgery
- broken nose, or nasal / facial trauma
- nasal piercing
- severely deviated septum, usually from trauma
- drug or cocaine use
- chronic nasal decongestant use
- nasal infection
- other medical conditions: radiation, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc
A deviated septum is not the only cause of nasal or sinus symptoms of nasal congestion / obstruction. Only after a comprehensive nasal evaluation can a nasal rhinoplasty surgeon best advise regarding treatment options for a deviated septum. One must carefully follow the facial plastic surgeon’s postoperative care instructions too.
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