Septoplasty

Breathe easier, sleep better, and find lasting relief from chronic sinus issues with expert surgical care.

What Is It Like To Have Septoplasty?

Your nasal septum is made up of cartilage and bone. It’s covered by a layer of tissue called mucosa. If you have a deviated septum, our Scottsdale Sinus Surgeon, Dr. Gergits, may recommend septoplasty, a procedure that will correct the dividing wall between your nostrils. This will fix airflow issues caused by this common condition and help with symptoms you may be experiencing, such as frequent nosebleeds, recurring sinus infections, and nasal airway breathing restrictions which can cause sleep disturbances. It is a very common type of surgery performed to treat nasal blockages.

This is a routine, surgical procedure usually performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients breathe easier, sleep better, and experience fewer sinus problems and nosebleeds after surgery and recovery is complete.

The procedure begins with anesthesia, which may be administered in a surgery center, hospital operating room, or in-office surgical suite. Once the patient is numb and comfortable, a small incision is made inside the nose, hidden from external view.

The delicate septal mucosa is carefully lifted to access the cartilage and bone beneath. In most cases, small sections of cartilage or bone are removed to improve nasal alignment and restore airflow. The mucosa is then repositioned, and the incision is typically closed using a dissolvable suture.

Since septoplasty is considered a functional—rather than cosmetic—procedure, it is performed to restore nasal breathing and structure, not to change the outward appearance of the nose.

Splints or nasal packing may be used to support the septum during healing, depending on the extent of the deviation. The entire procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Because sedation is used, patients are required to have a responsible adult accompany them to and from the surgical appointment.

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Recovery: What Should I Expect After Septoplasty?

You can expect about 2-5 days of nasal pain and possibly some bleeding. Although rare, excessive bleeding can occur and is described as bleeding that drains out the front of the nose and streams, not drips. If bleeding does occur, Afrin-saturated cotton balls placed snugly inside the nose usually do the trick. Afrin (oxymetazoline) helps contract the dilated blood vessels and stops the bleeding. This is useful for any nosebleed.

After septoplasty, you may be given a prescription for pain medication to be taken after your procedure. However, most patients will commonly see adequate pain reduction by just using Tylenol and Motrin, alternating every 2 hours. Some patients also get some pain in their front teeth. This is because there is a nerve that runs from your nose to your front teeth that can get bruised during the procedure.

Tips For A Better Recovery:

  • You can decrease the nasal swelling and congestion after the procedure by resting with your head elevated, such as in a recliner, and some patients will even sleep in the recliner for a few days.

  • Using a humidifier while you sleep can help keep the inside of your nose moist throughout the night. You should also begin using a saline spray (such as Ocean, AYR, Simply Saline, or a generic alternative) to gently cleanse and hydrate your nasal passages during recovery. In some cases, your provider may recommend a short course of Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray—typically no more than 3–5 days—to reduce swelling and congestion. Prolonged use should be avoided, as it can lead to rebound nasal congestion, a condition where symptoms worsen without the spray. Always follow your provider’s instructions when using any nasal decongestants.

  • If you notice that your nasal cavity is completely blocked from crusts and scabbing, try taking a hot, steamy shower and try to breathe the moist air into your nose. After this, if your nose is still blocked, make a crude salt solution by getting an 8 ounce glass of warm tap water, adding 1 Tbsp. of table salt and stirring until dissolved. (If you have well water, then boil the water first.) Then saturate a few cotton balls in the warm salt solution you’ve just made. Place these cotton balls into the front of your nose/nostrils and tilt your head backwards. Replace the saltwater-cotton balls as needed until you feel the saltwater start to penetrate the deeper nasal cavity. You can do this as long as you need.

  • Once the cotton balls have done the trick, you can dip some cotton tipped applicators into the saltwater solution and gently clean just inside the nose in a circular fashion to remove and break up the dry crusts. After the nasal cavity is opened, resume the saline mist and Afrin spray. Remember: no Afrin after 5 days total.

  • You should avoid blowing your nose for 1-2 weeks after septoplasty. Sneeze with your mouth open and avoid any trauma to the nose from children and pets. Accidental injury will cause pain but usually won’t result in deformity unless the injury is significant. You will be able to shower and eat normally right away.

  • If you work in an office-type setting, you can usually get back to work in 1-3 days. Keep in mind that you must avoid driving or placing you or anyone in harm’s way if you are using a narcotic for pain control. If your job is more labor-intensive and involves heavy lifting, we may ask you to wait a few days longer before you return to work. You can engage in light exercise after one week of recovery, but we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for up to 4 weeks. If you know you work in an environment with lots of dust and airborne particles, you may also want to wear a mask.

Will This Procedure Change My Appearance?

All changes made during septoplasty occur internally and are not intended to alter the external appearance of the nose. In some cases, mild facial swelling or bruising can occur, though this is generally uncommon and temporary.

What Complications Might Arise?

Complications with septoplasty are rare, though infection or a reaction to the anesthesia is possible. Some patients experience a “septal hematoma” in which blood will collect under the skin of the nose. If this occurs, the bloody drainage will need to be removed and this can be taken care of in the office. Some patients may also experience a septal perforation, which is a hole in the septum, and rarely produces any symptoms.

You will schedule a follow-up visit 7-14 days after your procedure so that we can prevent or address any complications which may arise. You will also receive Dr. Gergits’ cell phone number for more urgent issues.

Will Insurance Cover This Surgery?

Most of the time, insurance will cover this procedure since a deviated septum can cause real health problems and this is not a cosmetic procedure. Every insurance plan is different. If you have questions, it is a good idea to contact our office and we can check to see if your insurance will cover this procedure.

Call us: 480.493.4941