What Is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated or uneven nasal septum.

The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two sides. When it is significantly displaced, one nasal passage can become narrower, leading to symptoms such as:

• Nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing.
• Recurrent sinus infections.
• Nosebleeds.
• Snoring or sleep disturbance.
• Nasal discomfort or pressure.

Septoplasty aims to reposition or straighten the septum to improve airflow and sinus drainage. In some cases, the procedure may be performed together with sinus surgery to address chronic sinusitis or severe nasal blockage.

What to Expect During Septoplasty

The surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia.

An incision is made inside the nostrils, allowing access to the septum without visible external scarring. Septoplasty is often also performed through an open approach with external incisions. The surgeon then adjusts or removes portions of cartilage and bone as needed to straighten the septum.

When sinus surgery is also required, it can be performed during the same operation. The total procedure time depends on the individual anatomy and the extent of correction required.

All procedures are carried out in accredited hospitals or day surgery facilities that meet Australian safety and infection control standards.

Recovery and Aftercare

Following septoplasty, it is normal to experience mild bleeding, nasal congestion and swelling for the first few weeks.

To support healing, patients are generally advised to:

• Keep their head elevated when resting.
• Avoid blowing the nose or performing strenuous activity until cleared by their surgeon.
• Use saline sprays or rinses if prescribed.
• Attend all follow-up appointments for postoperative care and monitoring.

Most people return to light activities within two weeks, but internal healing continues over several months.

Swelling and congestion gradually improve, and complete recovery may take up to 12 months as the internal tissues stabilise.

Potential Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, septoplasty carries certain risks. These may include:

• Temporary bleeding or infection.
• Changes in nasal sensation (such as numbness or tenderness).
• Small perforation (hole) in the septum.
• Alteration in nasal shape.
• Persistence or recurrence of nasal obstruction.
• Reaction to anaesthesia.

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure and provide information on how they are managed.

Septoplasty and Chronic Sinusitis

In some patients, a deviated septum can contribute to chronic sinus infections by affecting sinus drainage.

Straightening the septum may help improve airflow and reduce sinus symptoms, but outcomes vary depending on the underlying condition.

A full clinical assessment — including nasal examination and imaging such as a CT scan — is needed to determine whether septoplasty alone is suitable or whether additional treatment is required.

Understanding Turbinate Surgery

The turbinates are small structures inside the nose that warm and filter air.

When the septum deviates, the turbinates may enlarge to compensate, further narrowing the nasal passage.

In some cases, turbinate reduction surgery is performed alongside septoplasty to help improve breathing while maintaining normal nasal function.

Recovery Timeline Overview

Recovery varies between individuals, but general milestones may include:

• 1 week: Most swelling and congestion are at their peak; rest and elevation are recommended.
• 2–3 weeks: Bruising or swelling and nasal discharge begin to subside; strenuous activities should still be avoided.
• 1–3 months: Gradual return to full activities; internal healing continues.
• Up to 1 year: Final results become apparent as tissues settle and swelling resolves.

Your surgeon will provide personalised postoperative guidance and a follow-up schedule based on your individual progress.

Is Septoplasty Right for You?

Septoplasty may be considered for individuals with a deviated septum causing functional symptoms that do not respond to medical therapy.

This procedure is not cosmetic; its purpose is to improve nasal breathing and reduce recurrent infections or congestion.

A thorough consultation with a qualified ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialist is essential to determine suitability.

The assessment includes reviewing your medical history, examining your nasal anatomy and discussing both non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

Consultation with Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained and FRACS-qualified ENT surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in nasal and sinus surgery.

He conducts comprehensive assessments for patients with nasal obstruction or chronic sinus concerns and provides information about medical and surgical options.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary.

Before proceeding, patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.