Septoplasty: Improve your breathing and relieve nasal obstruction
Written in association with:
Published: 09/01/2025
Edited by: Carlota Pano
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated nasal septum, which can cause breathing difficulties and other complications. This article provides an expert insight into septoplasty surgery, addressing common questions and concerns.
What are the indications for septoplasty?
The nasal septum is the cartilage and bone structure that divides the nasal cavity into two halves. When it becomes deviated or misaligned, it can obstruct nasal airflow and cause symptoms like chronic nasal congestion, difficulty sleeping, or snoring, which affect quality of life.
Hence, the main reason for undergoing septoplasty is persistent nasal obstruction that interferes with breathing. Other indications include recurrent sinus infections, facial pain, or frequent nosebleeds linked to a deviated septum that can’t be managed with medication. In some cases, septoplasty may also be performed to improve airflow after trauma or injury to the nose.
How is septoplasty performed?
Septoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general or local anaesthesia. The surgery usually takes between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the deviation and whether additional corrections are needed.
Your ENT surgeon will first make an incision inside the nostril to access the nasal septum. The cartilage and bone causing the deviation will then either be removed or reshaped to create a straighter septum, without changing the external shape of the nose. The incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars.
Can I combine septoplasty with sinus surgery or rhinoplasty?
It’s common to perform septoplasty in conjunction with other procedures. If you have chronic sinusitis, sinus surgery can be performed simultaneously to address both issues, treating blockages or other structural problems to improve overall nasal function.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, combining the procedure with septoplasty (referred to as a septorhinoplasty) is also an option to address all of your functional and aesthetic needs in a single surgery. Always discuss your needs and expectations with your ENT surgeon to determine the best course of action.
What can I expect during the recovery period after septoplasty?
After surgery, you can expect some nasal congestion, swelling, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Nasal pickings or splints may also be placed inside the nose to support the septum as it heals and minimise bleeding, and these are usually removed within a few days after the procedure.
Most people will be able to return to work or daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. As the swelling subsides, most people will also notice a significant improvement in their breathing, leading to better sleep and reduced snoring.
It’s important to follow your ENT surgeon’s aftercare instructions, which may include using saline sprays to keep the nasal passages hydrated, and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.