Year 1 - Post Septoplasty

A year ago, I underwent surgery (septoplasty with turbinate reduction), to clear up some sinus issues and readjust the inner chambers of my nose. I had a deviated septum, which means the inside of my nose was crooked. I was deviated more towards the left. This meant allergens (and water from rinses) got trapped in my sinuses more frequently, and my poor turbinates were always swollen.

I just looked up my surgical notes, which made me a tad nauseous. Also made me wonder if something important was snipped out during a follow up visit by the doctor's assistant. Such as the skin graft that may explain why I have two identical holes in the back of my nose. Though perforations are not unheard of following the procedure. I've been assured that they're so far back that they shouldn't be a concern, and honestly I've mostly forgotten about them, unless I'm doing nasal rinses.

Aside from that, I'd say the procedure went really well. I have far less issues and didn't get a sinus affection last year. Used to get those at least yearly in fall, when leaves start to rot. But most importantly, I can breathe. No more blockage, far less congestion. It's…so nice. Heck, I had to stop using nasal sprays for a few months while my doctors had me monitor the holes, for fear of crusting. It sucked, but I could lean on allergy pills and other ways to reduce any pain and difficulties.

And I dodged sinus infections! I am back to using Sensimist, as it's the easiest on me and isn't a concentrated spray. I've got other reasons I might not take up nasal sprays (eye issues), so I will likely ease up on sprays outside of spring and fall. Rinses help flush out allergens, and we live in an apartment with hardwood floors. My indoor allergies (dust and dust mites) are less an issue these days.

Would I do it all over again? Absolutely. But the goal is to avoid reversal, which means prevention and care. Basically what I've been doing for the last few years, with some updates. I don't expect anything groundbreaking, so I don't expect to make future posts related to my surgery.