OpenHealth Q&A

Is It Common for a Septum to Redeviate? My Journey with ENT Issues

**A Brief Background** In October 2003, at the age of 15, I faced multiple surgeries simultaneously, which included: double jaw osteotomies, the extraction of wisdom teeth, a myringotomy, septoplasty, and turbinate reduction. The recovery period wasn’t very memorable for me, given the extent and number of procedures performed at once. **Fast Forward to Recent Years** Years later, I noticed that my upper teeth were shifting inward from the sides, resulting in a significant crossbite. I didn’t realize the severity of the issue until I sought braces again a couple of years ago. However, I remain uncertain about whether this dental shifting was influenced by my jaw or nose or if it was just an independent occurrence. It's rather perplexing, especially considering the various plates and screws placed in my jaw. A few years post-shift, my left ear, which has been problematic in the past, began to feel congested again. This re-introduced symptoms of tinnitus and dizziness, and I found myself unable to breathe through my nose, relegating me to mouth breathing, which was incredibly uncomfortable. **Back to Medical Attention in 2013** I returned to the ENT specialist who had performed the initial surgery on that side. He is a well-regarded, board-certified surgeon, highly recommended by friends and family. This procedure closely resembled the previous one, with the exception of any jaw work. For a span of several years, everything seemed manageable, but over the last six years, I feel I’ve reverted to my original state. My left nostril completely collapses when I inhale, preventing any airflow. The frustrations of my ear’s condition weigh heavily on me. I frequently find myself actively forcing air through my nose while pinching it just to achieve a fleeting sense of relief. Occasionally, I experience a brief moment when my ear opens on its own, allowing me to relish the bliss for a mere 15 seconds—an exhilarating experience that is both rare and fleeting. Yet, the dizziness, relentless tinnitus, and constant headaches have made life difficult, severely limiting my activities. Recently, I began monitoring my nighttime oxygen levels, which have been plummeting into the 70s quite regularly. I consulted two different ENT specialists, including the same surgeon from before and another reputable doctor. Unfortunately, both of my appointments ended in dismissal of my concerns. That was about two years ago now. They prescribed an ear ointment, nasal spray, and even an off-label antidepressant to help alleviate the tinnitus, but nothing seems to work. I've arranged to meet with a new double board-certified ENT and facial plastic surgeon. However, that consultation won’t happen for another month, and I’m feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety about it. **Questions Arising** Given this background, I’m wondering if it’s typical for a septum to redeviate over time? Can you experience ear and nasal issues as if they’ve returned to how they were two decades ago? I was still quite young during my first operation, but my second surgery happened when I was more aware of my body. I haven’t grown much since I was 15—my height has remained the same—but I realize that growth involves more complexities beyond mere height increases. The dismissive attitude of some doctors has compounded my feelings of being unwell. While I struggled to articulate the extent of my suffering during those visits, I am reaching a breaking point and it has overshadowed many aspects of my life. Is there a chance that a revision surgery could adjust things? I would willingly consent to cartilage grafting or any necessary procedures to restore my quality of life, even though I’m unclear on what my normal would look like anymore. **Surgical History Summary** To provide context regarding my surgeries: **First Surgery Report (Excluding Jaw Work):** 1. Septoplasty for a deviated septum 2. Inferior turbinate reduction via cautery 3. Left myringotomy with fluid evacuation **Second Surgery Report:** 1. Septoplasty for a severely deviated septum 2. Bilateral inferior turbinate resection 3. Endoscopic resection of left middle turbinate concha bullosa 4. Left myringotomy with a tube placement 5. Right debridement of an unexpected nasal polyp that had not shown up in tests and was never discussed with me—this was news to me today. The surgical notes indicated it was inadvertently removed without being sent for pathology but appeared benign. I’m baffled as to why, despite undergoing a nearly identical surgical procedure the second time around, I still find myself in distress. Any suggestions or supportive messages would mean the world to me. **In Summary:** I'm about to embark on what seems to be a potential journey toward another surgical intervention for my deviated septum and ear concerns. Is this something that others have experienced?

Answers (1)

8/15/2025, 1:11:05 AM

OpenHealth AI

Summary: It is not uncommon for a septum to redeviate over time, particularly after multiple surgeries. Your ongoing nasal congestion, ear issues, and symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, and headaches are understandably distressing. Considerations for revision surgery may be appropriate, especially given the impact on your quality of life. Here’s what you can do next.

Explanation: The nasal septum, which is the structure separating the two nostrils, can indeed redeviate for a variety of reasons, including the healing process and changes in facial structure over time. After your extensive surgeries, it's possible that shifts in the jaw, nasal passages or even internal healing responses led to renewed symptoms.

Nasal and ear issues can frequently overlap, particularly if the nasal passages are obstructed, which can affect pressure regulation in the ears, leading to eustachian tube dysfunction. Your experience of temporary relief hints at the potential for successful interventions, but they require careful assessment by specialists.

Your symptoms of dizziness, tinnitus, and headaches are significant and warrant closer investigation to rule out underlying issues, such as sleep apnea, especially if your nighttime oxygen levels are dropping significantly. Consulting with multiple ENT specialists can sometimes lead to frustrations, but it's crucial to find someone who will actively address your concerns.

Next Steps:

1. Prepare for Your Upcoming Consultation:

   • Write down all your symptoms, including their frequency and intensity.
   • Note how these symptoms impact your daily life.
   • Bring a list of questions and any relevant previous medical reports to your appointment.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms:

   • Keep a journal of your nasal congestion, ear pressure, dizziness, and other symptoms, including any triggers or patterns.
   • Document your nighttime oxygen levels as this will be important for your doctor to assess.

3. Consider Remedial Practices:

   • Use saline nasal sprays or neti pots to help maintain nasal hygiene and moisture, potentially easing some symptoms.
   • Practice breathing exercises to help retrain nasal airflow and reduce mouth breathing.

4. Discuss Surgical Options:

   • In your upcoming consultation, express your willingness to consider revision surgery and ask about the potential for cartilage grafting or other interventions.
   • Ask about the risks and benefits of revision surgery, as well as what the expected outcomes could be.

5. Seek Support:

   • Engage in support groups, either locally or online, where others with similar experiences share their journeys and coping strategies.

It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your journey ahead, but focusing on clear, actionable steps can help you feel more in control. You deserve to find solutions that enhance your quality of life, and I wish you the best as you navigate this process.