The septoplasty is designed to improve your nasal airway function caused by internal structural deformities. A septoplasty straightens the internal nasal septum, the midline cartilage and bony portion that divides your nose into a right and left nasal passage. It is a deviation of the septum into either nasal airway that leads to a functional obstruction that restricts breathing and may cause sinus conditions.

Additionally, abnormally enlarged bony and mucosal projections from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity called turbinates contribute to nasal airway compromise. Turbinate issues are commonly treated with over-the-counter steroid nasal sprays. When turbinate issues are resistant to this option, the patient often will benefit from surgery. Along with straightening the septum via septoplasty, the turbinates may be reduced with cauterization, radiofrequency or specific lasers.

A rhinoplasty (nose job) is commonly combined with septoplasty and septoturbinoplasty to correct the outer appearance of the nose and create a more harmonious appearance.

The ideal candidate for this surgery is in general good health, a non-smoker or smoker who will avoid smoking for up to 3 weeks, and have reasonable expectations for the outcome of surgery.

Septoplasty and septoturbinoplasty surgery can dramatically help a patient’s breathing problems. 

Even with the utmost care and judgment of the surgeon, there are risks associated with any surgery, however rare. Bleeding is usually minimal after surgery, if bleeding persists, additional packing of the nasal passages may be necessary. Infection, nerve injury, septal perforations are rare, but you should know they are a risk of surgery.

Over-the-counter steroid sprays may assist with breathing issues to a degree, however, there aren’t alternatives to septoplasty surgery.