Interesting Facts About Septoplasty
Quick answer: Septoplasty straightens a deviated septum, the wall of bone and cartilage between the two sides of your nose. It is considered when the deviation causes trouble breathing, nosebleeds, congestion, or disturbed sleep. The surgery is done through the nostrils with no external incisions, takes 30 to 45 minutes, and is an outpatient procedure, so you go home the same day. A randomized trial found septoplasty improved breathing and quality of life more than non-surgical care, with benefit lasting at least two years.
Correction of the Nasal Septum
Do you have trouble breathing through one or both sides of your nose, recurring nosebleeds, or unexplained facial pain? If so, you might have a deviated septum.
The nasal septum is the thin partition of bone and cartilage that divides the entire right nostril from the left. When the septum is crooked or shifted away from the midline, it is called a deviated septum. Some degree of septal deviation is very common. Most adults have at least a slight bend, and most of those cause no symptoms. Septoplasty is considered only when the deviation is causing problems.
If the deviation of your septum is so severe that it causes difficulty in breathing or nosebleeds, then it may be in your best interest to consider having a septoplasty to surgically correct your deviated septum. Let's talk about how this procedure works, how it may benefit you, and where you can go in Austin for medical treatment to help you breathe more easily.
What Does Septoplasty Address?
A deviated septum can block airflow and, in some people, may contribute to sinus problems or nosebleeds. A severely crooked deviated septum can cause the following:
- Disturbed sleep
- Nosebleeds
- Headaches or facial pain (sometimes)
- Nasal congestion
- Dry mouth
Your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor may suggest septoplasty to reduce or eliminate these symptoms, after first sorting out on exam which structures are causing the blockage (AAO-HNS consensus statement). After you heal, you should experience better airflow and improved breathing; a randomized trial in The Lancet found the benefit lasted at least two years compared with non-surgical care.
A Septoplasty Reshapes or Removes Bone and Cartilage
A septoplasty is performed entirely through the nostrils. Your ENT doctor will reshape or remove tiny portions of the bone and cartilage in your septum and make it straighter and less intrusive inside your nose. The surgeon may place small splints or soft plastic sheets to help your septum heal properly after the surgery.
Septoplasty Is Usually an Outpatient Procedure
Septoplasty typically takes 30 to 45 minutes for your doctor to complete. Once the sedation or anesthesia has worn off and you have been observed for a short time, you can go home the same day.
Your ENT doctor will ask you to follow certain precautions, such as elevating your head while you sleep at night and avoiding blowing your nose for 1 week. It's also best to avoid strenuous physical activity and movements that will put pressure on your head and face.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace an in-person evaluation. Every patient is unique. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific symptoms and treatment options.
Your Complete Deviated Septum & Septoplasty Guide
What Is a Deviated Septum?
Symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and the full range of treatment options for a deviated nasal septum, from medications to surgical correction.
Learn more →Septoplasty Overview
Learn about the septoplasty procedure: what it treats, how it works, what to expect, and whether it may be right for you.
Learn more →Septoplasty Cost & Insurance
How much deviated septum surgery costs, what determines the price, and how insurance coverage works.
Learn more →What is Deviated Septum Surgery?
Our surgeons answer common questions about septoplasty: symptoms, how the procedure works, recovery, risks, and success rates.
Learn more →How to Prepare for Septoplasty
What to expect before surgery: medication guidelines, restrictions, and tips that set you up for a smoother recovery.
Learn more →Septoplasty Aftercare Instructions
Rest, swelling, medications, nasal cleaning, and activity limits after surgery, plus when to call our office.
Learn more →Post-Op Care Instructions
Recovery guides for the procedures we perform, including sinus surgery, tonsillectomy, and ear surgery.
Learn more →Considering a Septoplasty?
Capital ENT's experienced surgeons can evaluate your deviated septum and discuss whether septoplasty is right for you. Same-day and next-day appointments often available.