Treatment

Septoplasty

Overview

Septoplasty is a common type of nasal surgery done to correct a deviated nasal septum, It is a thin wall (called the septum) between your nostrils. When this wall is off-center or crooked, it can block airflow and cause breathing problems, frequent sinus infections, snoring and even nosebleeds. Septoplasty straightens the septum, helping patients breathe easier and live more comfortably.

Why Septoplasty Treatment is Required?

• To treat chronic nasal blockage or difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.
• For people suffering from frequent sinus infections due to blocked nasal passages.
• If you have sleep issues or snoring caused by a deviated septum.
• To stop persistent nosebleeds or nasal dryness linked with poor airflow.
• In cases where nasal sprays or medications don’t work anymore.
• If you are experiencing headaches or facial pain caused by a crooked septum.
• To correct a nose injury or trauma that has affected the septum.
• As part of septorhinoplasty to improve both function and appearance.

Key Advantages of Septoplasty Treatment

• Improves airflow through the nose, making breathing easier.
• Reduces sinus pressure, infections and congestion.
• Enhances sleep quality by reducing snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
• Leads to fewer headaches and facial pressure.
• Minimal visible change to your nose (unless combined with rhinoplasty).
• Quick recovery in most cases with long-lasting results.
• Can be combined with turbinate reduction for even better results.
• Offers relief when non-surgical treatments fail.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Septoplasty Treatment

• Get a full evaluation from a deviated septum doctor or ENT specialist.
• Share your complete medical history, allergies and current medications.
• Stop taking blood-thinning medicines like aspirin as advised.
• Arrange someone to drive you home after the surgery.
• Avoid eating or drinking at least 6 hours before the surgery.
• Plan a few days off from work or school for rest and recovery.
• Follow any specific instructions given by your doctor.

How Septoplasty Treatment is Performed?

• The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia.
• The surgeon works inside the nose, so no visible scars are left.
• The cartilage and bone of the septum are reshaped or trimmed.
• If required, turbinate reduction may also be done to improve airflow.
• Sometimes, small silicone splints or nasal packing is placed inside temporarily.
• The surgery typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on complexity.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure:
• Health check-ups, nasal exams, and possibly a CT scan.
• Fasting instructions and pre-op medication guidance.
• Meeting with anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options.
• During the Procedure:
• Carried out in a hospital or surgical center under sterile conditions.
• Surgeon makes precise corrections to the deviated nasal septum.
• May include turbinate reduction for optimal breathing.
• Minimal to no bleeding expected during surgery.
• After the Procedure:
• Expect mild swelling, nasal stuffiness, and some discomfort.
• Splints or soft packing may be removed in a few days.
• Recovery time usually ranges from 1 to 2 weeks.
• Full breathing improvement is noticed once swelling subsides.
• Avoid blowing nose, strenuous activity, or bending for a few days.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Minor bleeding or drainage from the nose.
• Infection or poor healing in rare cases.
• Temporary numbness in upper lip or teeth.
• Risk of septal perforation (hole in septum).
• Incomplete improvement if additional nasal issues are present.
• Rare changes in nose shape if surgery affects outer structure.
• Possible need for revision surgery in a small number of cases.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients notice significant improvement in nasal breathing.
• Reduction in sinus infections, snoring, and nasal congestion.
• Long-term results with minimal maintenance needed.
• Faster recovery if only septoplasty is done without rhinoplasty.
• Improved quality of life, better sleep, and more energy.
• Results may be better if post-operative care is properly followed.