Septoplasty: unblocking your nose with surgery

If you have a blocked nose due to a structural problem, your doctor might recommend surgery. A septoplasty is performed when your septum is causing the blockage. We spoke to leading rhinologist Mr Hesham Saleh about what patients can expect from the procedure, what risks are involved, and whether the appearance of your nose can be affected.

What is the septum?

The nasal septum is what we call the part of your nose which divides the two nostrils. It is made of a thin piece of cartilage and bone.

Most people have a nasal septum that is straight and does not cause any breathing problems. However, some people may have a septum that is bent into one or both of the sides of the nose. This may be a problem you have had since birth or the result of an injury. A bent or deviated septum can block the airways in your nose and interfere with your breathing.

A deviated septum is treated with a surgical procedure known as a septoplasty.

What does a septoplasty involve?

A septoplasty is usually carried out under general anaesthetic and takes around 30-45 minutes.

The surgeon will go through the inside of the nose and make a small cut inside to realign the cartilage and bone that make up the septum. A septoplasty does not usually involve cuts to the skin on the exterior of the nose.

In some cases, a septoplasty is combined with other procedures. For example, some patients may require sinus surgery where the sinuses are blocked, or a septorhinoplasty to straighten the nose itself. A septorhinoplasty is a more invasive procedure and you may require a splint afterwards.

Are there any risks involved in the procedure?

Septoplasty is safe procedure, but there is a small chance of complications, such as:

• bleeding – you may need a pack inserted into the nose to prevent this, or in rare cases, further surgery
• infection – this is a very rare occurrence but needs prompt medical attention
• a hole in the septum – this may produce a “whistling” sound when you breathe or nose bleeds. Most of the time you will not need surgery for this.
• numbness in the teeth – this occurs very rarely but tends to improve after a few months

Will my nose look different after the procedure?

Septoplasty does not usually involve any change to the outward appearance of your nose. In rare cases you may have a small dip in the bridge of your nose. A septorhinoplasty, on the other hand, involves more extensive changes, and you should have a consultation before your operation about what to expect.