What Are a Deviated Septum and Septoplasty?
The septum is the cartilage-and-bone structure that divides the nose into two passages; when this structure curves to one side, it is called a deviated septum. It can be present from birth or develop after an injury to the nose. Septoplasty is a functional surgical procedure that corrects the deviated septum to restore balanced airflow through both nostrils. Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç, experienced in this field in Ankara, first clarifies the cause in patients presenting with nasal obstruction before considering septoplasty.
Symptoms / Who Is a Candidate
- Persistent blockage in one or both nostrils.
- One-sided nasal congestion that varies periodically.
- Breathlessness that becomes more noticeable during exercise.
- Frequent sinusitis attacks or snoring.
- Congestion that worsens when lying on a particular side at night.
Diagnostic Methods
An endoscopic nasal examination assesses the degree of septal deviation, turbinate size and any accompanying sinus problems. Distinguishing whether the obstruction is structural or related to allergy/infection is important for treatment planning; allergy assessment or CT imaging may be requested if needed.
Treatment Process
In mild deviations, medical options such as nasal sprays may be tried first; however, a lasting solution for a structural deviation is surgery. Septoplasty is performed under general or local anaesthesia, entirely through the nostrils with no visible external incision, and typically takes 45-60 minutes. If turbinate enlargement accompanies the obstruction, radiofrequency turbinate reduction can be performed in the same session. If there is also an aesthetic concern, septoplasty can be planned together with nasal aesthetics as part of septorhinoplasty.
Recovery Process
- 1-3 days: Mild congestion and pressure are expected; a nasal packing or silicone splint may rarely be used.
- 1 week: Any splint/packing is removed, and a return to daily life is possible.
- 2-4 weeks: Swelling subsides and noticeable improvement in breathing is felt.
Full improvement in airflow becomes clear within a few weeks as the nasal lining returns to normal.
Why Choose Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç?
Correctly identifying the source of nasal obstruction is key to avoiding unnecessary surgery. Prof. Dr. Ömer Karakoç combines ENT expertise with rhinoplasty experience to evaluate both the functional need and, where relevant, aesthetic expectations within the same plan; the process is managed personally at his clinic in Çankaya, Ankara, from consultation through to follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are septoplasty and rhinoplasty the same thing?
No. Septoplasty is a functional procedure that corrects the internal deviation of the nose to improve breathing, while rhinoplasty shapes the external appearance of the nose. They can be performed separately or together in the same session (septorhinoplasty).
Will my nasal obstruction be fully resolved after septoplasty?
Most patients experience significant improvement when the obstruction is due to structural deviation. However, if an additional cause such as allergy or chronic sinusitis is present, these conditions may also need separate treatment.
Is nasal packing used after surgery?
Today, many cases use silicone splints instead of traditional packing, which do not hinder breathing. The method used is determined by the scope of the surgery.
At what age can septoplasty be performed?
It is generally recommended after adolescence, once nasal development is largely complete. In cases of severe breathing difficulty, the decision is assessed individually based on examination findings.
When can I return to work or school?
Most patients can return to daily life within a few days; for intense physical activity and sports, waiting around 2-3 weeks is usually advised. The exact duration depends on the scope of the surgery.
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