Breathing difficulties, frequent congestion, or recurring nosebleeds may sometimes be linked to a deviated septum. This condition occurs when the wall dividing the nasal passages is not straight, affecting airflow.
In this guide, we cover the basics of a deviated septum, when it may require medical attention, and what to expect from septoplasty, the procedure used to treat it.
The nasal septum is the thin wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two nasal passages. In a straight alignment, it allows for balanced airflow through both sides of the nose. A deviated septum occurs when this wall is deviated (crooked) or displaced to one side..
This deviation can be present from birth as a structural variation, or it can develop later due to injury or trauma to the nose. While many people have some degree of deviation, it only becomes a medical concern when it significantly affects nasal function.
Deviated septum symptoms vary depending on severity. Some people may notice difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, particularly if the nasal passage is narrowed. Other common nasal septum deviation symptoms include persistent nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and a tendency to sleep on one side to ease breathing.
In some cases, a deviated septum may also contribute to snoring or disrupted sleep. Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, it is important to seek a professional evaluation for an accurate diagnosis.
When symptoms are mild, they may be managed with non-surgical treatments such as decongestants or nasal sprays. However, surgery is the only method that directly addresses the underlying structural deviation. The procedure, known as septoplasty, is designed to straighten the septum and restore balanced airflow through the nasal passages.
Septoplasty is performed inside the nose, usually under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions inside the nasal cavity to access the septum. Portions of cartilage or bone may be trimmed, repositioned, or removed to create a straighter alignment. Since deviated septum surgery is carried out internally, it typically does not alter the external appearance of the nose.
Recovery following septoplasty varies from person to person. It is common to experience swelling, congestion, and mild discomfort in the days after surgery. Nasal splints or packing may be used to support healing during the first week. Most people can return to light daily activities within a week, with complete healing taking several weeks. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor progress and address any concerns during recovery.
As with any surgical procedure, septoplasty carries risks. Potential complications include bleeding, infection, scarring, or changes in nasal sensation. These risks are discussed thoroughly during consultation, and individual outcomes depend on personal health and healing factors.
Septoplasty focuses on functional improvement but can, where clinically appropriate, be combined with rhinoplasty to modify nasal structure or appearance. This combined procedure is called septorhinoplasty. It aims to address both nasal structure and appearance in a single operation, though it is not necessary for patients seeking only functional correction.
Selecting a surgeon with the right qualifications is an important part of preparing for septoplasty. In Australia, the FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) accreditation demonstrates advanced surgical training and expertise in procedures such as septoplasty and septorhinoplasty.
At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, Dr Mark Doyle holds this qualification and provides patients with a thorough explanation of their treatment options, including the potential risks and expected recovery process.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to a deviated septum, contacting Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is the next step toward understanding your options. Your GP can provide a referral for an assessment with Dr Mark Doyle. This ensures the procedure is appropriate for your needs and meets current regulatory guidelines. During this appointment, your concerns can be assessed, your medical history reviewed, and the potential benefits and risks of septoplasty discussed in detail. This allows you to make an informed decision about whether the procedure is appropriate for your circumstances.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.