Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects a deviated nasal septum—the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two passages. A deviated septum is present in up to 80% of people to some degree; severe deviation can cause significant nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, snoring, nosebleeds, and chronic sinusitis. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery performs septoplasty as a standalone functional procedure and in combination with cosmetic rhinoplasty (rhinoseptoplasty).

What Is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the cartilaginous or bony septum is displaced to one side of the nasal cavity, narrowing one or both nasal passages. It may be congenital or result from nasal trauma. Symptoms of significant septal deviation include: difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, chronic nasal congestion unresponsive to medical therapy, recurrent nosebleeds, headaches, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea.

The Septoplasty Procedure

Septoplasty is performed under general anesthesia through incisions made inside the nostrils. No visible external incisions. The surgeon accesses and repositions or removes the deviated portions of septum while preserving the cartilage and bone needed for structural support. The procedure takes approximately 30-90 minutes and is often performed as an outpatient procedure.

Combining Septoplasty with Rhinoplasty

Septoplasty and rhinoplasty are frequently combined in a single procedure (rhinoseptoplasty) when a patient has both functional breathing concerns and cosmetic goals for the nose. Combining procedures is efficient. It means one recovery, one anesthetic, and coordinated surgical planning. Insurance typically covers the functional (septoplasty) component when medically indicated.

Recovery

Post-operative congestion, swelling, and mild discomfort are expected for the first 1-2 weeks. Nasal splints or packing may be placed and removed within the first week. Most patients notice significantly improved breathing as soon as swelling resolves, typically 2-4 weeks after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does septoplasty change the appearance of the nose?

A: Standard septoplasty corrects internal structure only, without changing the external nose. No external incisions or cartilage reshaping are performed unless rhinoplasty is combined. If you have both breathing concerns and cosmetic goals, rhinoseptoplasty addresses both in one procedure.

Q: Is septoplasty covered by insurance?

A: Yes, septoplasty is typically covered by insurance when medically necessary, documented by nasal airflow testing, clinical examination, and failure to respond to medical therapy (nasal steroids, antihistamines). MetroDerm’s surgical team will guide you through the insurance documentation process.

Q: How long does it take to breathe better after septoplasty?

A: Most patients notice improved nasal breathing within 2-4 weeks as post-operative swelling resolves. Some residual swelling may persist for 3-6 months, but most patients experience the majority of functional improvement well within the first month.

Procedures & Treatments