{"id":1110,"date":"2025-05-26T13:55:12","date_gmt":"2025-05-26T10:55:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/?p=1110"},"modified":"2025-05-26T13:55:12","modified_gmt":"2025-05-26T10:55:12","slug":"why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Should Septal Perforations Be Repaired?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">\u0130ndex<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#By_Prof_Dr_Gediz_Murat_Serin_%E2%80%93_ENT_Specialist_Rhinologist\" >By Prof. Dr. Gediz Murat Serin \u2013 ENT Specialist, Rhinologist<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#What_Is_a_Septal_Perforation\" >What Is a Septal Perforation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Why_Should_It_Be_Closed\" >Why Should It Be Closed?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Progressive_Enlargement_and_Tissue_Loss\" >Progressive Enlargement and Tissue Loss<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Nasal_Deformity_and_Collapse\" >Nasal Deformity and Collapse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Breathing_Difficulties\" >Breathing Difficulties<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Chronic_Crusting_and_Bleeding\" >Chronic Crusting and Bleeding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Infection_and_Mucosal_Breakdown\" >Infection and Mucosal Breakdown<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Modern_Solutions_Endoscopic_Repair_with_Tailored_Techniques\" >Modern Solutions: Endoscopic Repair with Tailored Techniques<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Why_Early_Intervention_Matters\" >Why Early Intervention Matters<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/why-should-septal-perforations-be-repaired\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"By_Prof_Dr_Gediz_Murat_Serin_%E2%80%93_ENT_Specialist_Rhinologist\"><\/span>By Prof. Dr. Gediz Murat Serin \u2013 ENT Specialist, Rhinologist<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The nasal septum serves as the central wall separating the two nostrils. When a hole\u2014called a septal perforation\u2014develops in this delicate structure, it can disrupt not only nasal airflow but also the overall function and health of the nose. While some may assume that small perforations can be left untreated, the truth is far more complex. Untreated septal perforations can worsen over time and lead to serious complications, including aesthetic, functional, and surgical challenges.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Septal_Perforation\"><\/span>What Is a Septal Perforation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A septal perforation is a full-thickness hole in the nasal septum, the wall made of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity. These perforations may arise due to:<br \/>\n&#8211; Previous nasal surgeries (especially septoplasty or rhinoplasty)<br \/>\n&#8211; Chronic use of nasal sprays or drugs (such as cocaine)<br \/>\n&#8211; Trauma<br \/>\n&#8211; Inflammatory diseases (e.g., Wegener\u2019s granulomatosis)<br \/>\n&#8211; Infections or excessive cauterization<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_It_Be_Closed\"><\/span>Why Should It Be Closed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Progressive_Enlargement_and_Tissue_Loss\"><\/span>Progressive Enlargement and Tissue Loss<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Left untreated, small perforations can become larger due to turbulent airflow, crusting, and mechanical trauma. As the edges dry out and ulcerate, cartilage and mucosal tissue continue to erode. Over time, this leads to further collapse of nasal structures, making future surgeries more complex or even impossible.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nasal_Deformity_and_Collapse\"><\/span>Nasal Deformity and Collapse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Septal perforations disrupt the mechanical integrity of the nasal septum. If the supporting cartilage weakens, patients may experience saddle-nose deformity or collapse of the nasal bridge\u2014both functionally and aesthetically devastating changes. These often require structural grafting, typically using costal cartilage, to restore form and function.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Breathing_Difficulties\"><\/span>Breathing Difficulties<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Even small perforations can disturb laminar airflow in the nose, resulting in:<br \/>\n&#8211; Whistling sounds<br \/>\n&#8211; Sensation of nasal obstruction<br \/>\n&#8211; Paradoxical breathing difficulty<br \/>\n&#8211; Postnasal drip<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chronic_Crusting_and_Bleeding\"><\/span>Chronic Crusting and Bleeding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Exposed cartilage within a perforation is prone to drying, chronic crusting, and recurrent bleeding. These symptoms are often resistant to medical treatment and significantly impact quality of life.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Infection_and_Mucosal_Breakdown\"><\/span>Infection and Mucosal Breakdown<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The area around a perforation can act as a chronic inflammation site, harboring bacterial growth and leading to mucosal breakdown. This often creates a vicious cycle of crusting, bleeding, and pain.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Modern_Solutions_Endoscopic_Repair_with_Tailored_Techniques\"><\/span>Modern Solutions: Endoscopic Repair with Tailored Techniques<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Since 2016, I have treated septal perforations with a focus on minimally invasive, endoscopic techniques. Each case is individualized. Depending on the size, location, and nasal anatomy, I may employ:<br \/>\n&#8211; Fascia grafts (commonly from the thigh)<br \/>\n&#8211; Costal cartilage grafts for structural support<br \/>\n&#8211; Local flap techniques to ensure mucosal coverage and vascularity<\/p>\n<p>All of these are performed endoscopically when possible. However, if the patient has nasal deformities from previous surgeries or collapse due to perforation, open or closed revision rhinoplasty with structural reconstruction is incorporated, using rib cartilage as needed.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Early_Intervention_Matters\"><\/span>Why Early Intervention Matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Delaying repair allows more tissue loss, scarring, and destabilization. Early intervention not only simplifies surgery but also improves:<br \/>\n&#8211; Graft success rate<br \/>\n&#8211; Aesthetic outcomes<br \/>\n&#8211; Long-term nasal health<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Septal perforations are more than just \u201ca hole in the nose.\u201d They are an evolving structural defect that can compromise breathing, appearance, and mucosal integrity. As a rhinologist with nearly a decade of focused experience in septal perforation repair, my advice is clear: Don\u2019t wait for it to worsen. Timely evaluation and tailored treatment can make all the difference.<\/p>\n<p>If you are experiencing symptoms of a septal perforation, or have been diagnosed and are unsure of the next steps, consider booking a consultation. Every nose deserves structural harmony and proper care.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Prof. Dr. Gediz Murat Serin \u2013 ENT Specialist, Rhinologist The nasal septum serves as the central wall separating the two nostrils. When a hole\u2014called a septal perforation\u2014develops in this delicate structure, it can disrupt not only nasal airflow but also the overall function and health of the nose. While some may assume that small [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1111,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1110","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1110","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1110"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1110\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1112,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1110\/revisions\/1112"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1111"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1110"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1110"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gedizserin.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1110"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}