Deviated Septum / Septoplasty

Deviated Septum

The nasal septum is the wall that divides the right and left nasal cavities. When the septum is not straight, or is deviated, it may obstruct one side of your nasal breathing more than the other.

A deviated septum may cause other problems such as nosebleeds, congestion due to turbinate enlargement, recurrent sinus infections, nasal or sinus pain, and external changes to the nose.

Causes of a deviated septum are typically related to nasal trauma. The trauma may or may not be related to a nasal bone fracture which is often associated with more visible signs of swelling, bruising, and bleeding. The event may occur early in life with no memorable recollection by the patient.

In a smaller number of individuals, the septum may be congenitally deviated. This is often associated with other congenital abnormalities of the nose or lip, such as cleft lip and palate. Significant trauma during the birthing process may also contribute congenitally deviated septum.

Septoplasty - Surgery to Repair A Deviated Septum

Septoplasty involves the surgical correction to straighten a deviated septum. This is typically done through incisions placed inside the nose. The lining of the septum is raised in order to access the underlying cartilage and bone. The damaged portions contributing to deviation are removed. The goal is to straighten the septum and provide equal breathing on the right and left sides.

At times, there may be other structural issues contributing to nasal obstruction. Septoplasty can also be combined with other nasal procedures such as inferior turbinate reduction, nasal valve repair, and sinus surgery.

Recovery typically takes one week of rest, two weeks of light activity, and 4-6 weeks for the majority of swelling to resolve and to experience the full benefits of surgery