What Is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a procedure to correct the deviation of the septum—the bony and cartilaginous structure that divides the nasal cavity into two parts. A deviated septum can make breathing through the nose difficult and cause nasal congestion.

This surgery is primarily aimed at improving nasal function rather than aesthetic appearance. However, in some patients, septoplasty may be planned in conjunction with procedures such as rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty.

Who Is a Candidate for Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a suitable surgical option for patients experiencing breathing difficulties due to a deviated nasal septum. Eligibility is determined following a detailed ENT examination.

• Those experiencing nasal congestion
• Those with a deviated septum
• Those with unilateral or bilateral breathing difficulties
• Those who experience nasal congestion during sleep
• Those experiencing breathing problems following a nasal trauma
• Patients whose nasal congestion persists despite medication

What Is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum is a condition where the nasal septum—the central partition inside the nose—is crooked to the right or left. This deviation can be congenital or develop following blows or trauma to the nose.

A deviated septum does not cause symptoms of the same severity in every patient. While it may cause mild nasal congestion in some individuals, it can lead to serious breathing problems that affect daily life in others.

What Issues Can Septoplasty Help With?

Septoplasty helps correct deviated septums that obstruct airflow within the nose. The goal is to make breathing through the nose more comfortable.

• Nasal congestion
• Deviated septum
• Unilateral breathing difficulty
• Nighttime nasal congestion
• Mouth breathing
• Nasal airflow issues
• Nasal septal deviations caused by trauma

What Is the Difference Between Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is an aesthetic nose surgery aimed at reshaping the external appearance of the nose. Septoplasty, on the other hand, focuses on correcting a deviated septum inside the nose and improving breathing function.

If no aesthetic change in the appearance of the nose is desired and the primary issue is difficulty breathing, septoplasty may be sufficient. If both aesthetic appearance and breathing issues need to be addressed together, septorhinoplasty may be preferred.

How Is a Septoplasty Surgery Planned?

During the preoperative examination, the patient’s internal nasal structure, the degree of septal deviation, breathing status, and accompanying nasal polyps are evaluated.

If necessary, an endoscopic nasal examination or additional imaging methods may be utilized. Dr. Songül Dursun creates a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s symptoms and nasal anatomy.

How Is Septoplasty Performed?

Septoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, incisions are made inside the nose to access the septum, and the deviated bone and cartilage structures are corrected.

Since the procedure is performed inside the nose, no visible scar is left on the outside. The scope of the surgery may vary depending on the structure of the deviated septum and the patient’s breathing difficulties.

The Recovery Process After Septoplasty

In the first few days after septoplasty, you may experience a sensation of fullness, mild soreness, crusting, or congestion inside the nose. This is a natural part of the healing process.

Most patients can return to their daily lives within a short time. Swelling and sensitivity inside the nose gradually subside. Improvements in breathing comfort become more noticeable as the healing process progresses.

What Should Be Considered After Septoplasty?

• Medications prescribed by the doctor should be taken regularly.
• Nasal hygiene should be maintained as recommended by the doctor.
• The nose should not be blown forcefully in the first few days.
• Avoid any impact to the nose.
• Follow-up appointments should not be missed.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for a while.

Why Choose Dr. Songül Dursun?

Septoplasty is a functional ENT surgery that requires a precise evaluation of the internal nasal anatomy. Thanks to her expertise in Otolaryngology, Dr. Songül Dursun thoroughly analyzes the structures causing nasal congestion.

The goal is to help the patient breathe more comfortably, improve airflow within the nose, and provide a treatment process that enhances quality of life.