Breathing through your nose should feel comfortable and unobstructed. However, for some patients with a significantly deviated septum, nasal breathing can become difficult and may not fully improve with medications alone.
At ENT Centers of Excellence in Foley, AL, septoplasty is one of the treatment options we offer to help address structural causes of nasal obstruction and improve nasal airflow in appropriate candidates.
The nasal septum is the wall of bone and cartilage that separates the nasal passages into two sides. Ideally, the septum allows for balanced airflow through both sides of the nose.
Many people have some degree of septal deviation without noticeable symptoms. However, when the deviation becomes more significant, it may contribute to ongoing nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing through the nose.
A deviated septum may be present from birth or develop following nasal trauma, such as a sports injury, fall, or accident.
One of the most common symptoms is nasal obstruction that may affect one side more than the other.
Additional symptoms may include:
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reposition and reshape portions of the nasal septum that may be contributing to airway obstruction.
The procedure is typically performed entirely through the nostrils, meaning there are no external incisions or visible facial scars.
Septoplasty focuses on improving nasal function by correcting structural issues that may contribute to reduced airflow through the nose. It is not intended as a cosmetic procedure.
The surgery is commonly performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, allowing many patients to return home the same day.
Recovery commonly involves temporary swelling, congestion, and nasal discomfort during the healing process. Many patients notice improvement in nasal breathing as healing progresses, although recovery experiences and outcomes vary by individual.
In some cases, septoplasty may be performed alongside turbinate reduction or other nasal procedures when multiple factors are contributing to nasal obstruction.
An evaluation typically begins with a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination of the nasal passages.
Your ENT provider may also perform nasal endoscopy to obtain a more detailed view of the septum and surrounding nasal structures. This evaluation helps determine whether a deviated septum may be contributing to your symptoms and whether septoplasty may be an appropriate treatment option.
Structural nasal obstruction from a deviated septum may persist without treatment. At ENT Centers of Excellence, we evaluate nasal anatomy and discuss individualized treatment options to help patients make informed decisions about their care.
Individual results may vary. Information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In the event of a medical emergency, call 911.