How common is septal perforation following rhinoplasty?
Very rare following rhinoplasty alone. Septal perforation, a hole going through from one airway to the other, can occur following septoplasty or SMR (submucous resection of the septal cartilage). Great care is required during these operations to prevent this complication. Septal perforations may occur in approximately 1% of septoplasties/SMRs. Small perforations cause dry mucus to stick to the septum and when it comes away bleeding may occur. There can be a whistling sound while breathing. Small perforations can be repaired. Large perforations cause less problems and are usually best left alone.
