Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the nasal septum – the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the two sides of the nose. A bent or deviated septum can cause breathing difficulties, nasal blockage, snoring, or recurrent sinus infections.

You may be offered a septoplasty if you have:

• Persistent nasal blockage on one or both sides
• Difficulty breathing through your nose
• Frequent nosebleeds or sinus infections
• Snoring or sleep disruption due to nasal obstruction
• A deviated septum after injury or trauma
  

• Septoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthetic (you will be asleep).
• The surgeon works through the nostrils – there are no external cuts.
• The bent parts of cartilage or bone are straightened or removed.
• Sometimes soft plastic splints are placed inside the nose to support healing.
• The operation typically takes 30–60 minutes.
  

• You may go home the same day or stay overnight.
• Expect some nasal congestion, mild pain, or discharge for a few days.
• Avoid blowing your nose for at least a week.
• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
• Most people return to normal activities after 1–2 weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity, dusty environments, and smoking during recovery.
  

All surgeries carry some risk. Possible complications include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Persistent nasal obstruction
• Changes to the shape of the nose (rare)
• Septal perforation (a hole in the septum, rare)
• Temporary loss of smell

• You may be prescribed nasal drops or sprays to aid healing.
• Attend your follow-up appointments to check healing.
• Avoid contact sports or activities that could injure your nose for several weeks.
  

• Heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Increasing pain or swelling
• High temperature or signs of infection
• Persistent headache or visual changes
  

If you have any questions, speak to your ENT specialist or GP. Useful resources:

• NHS: www.nhs.uk
• ENT UK: www.entuk.org