Obstructed breathing can greatly affect your quality of life. A deviated septum can also cause problems such as chronic nosebleeds, nasal pressure, sinus infections, or snoring. Septoplasty surgery at my San Francisco plastic surgery practice gently adjusts the inner structures of the nose so patients can finally breathe comfortably and freely.
Up to 80% of people have deviated septums. However, if you have a major deviation due to genetics or injury, a bit of medical attention can make life much easier. Curious if septoplasty is right for you? Here are a few answers to frequently asked septoplasty questions.
Septoplasty Overview & Benefits
What is septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical nose procedure that corrects a deviated septum. A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal airway become crooked, making it difficult to breathe through one of your nostrils.
How should you choose a septoplasty surgeon?
I recommend choosing a surgeon who has had special training in performing septoplasty since this is a delicate and challenging procedure that not all plastic surgeons can perform. Before having your surgery, research your plastic surgeon’s credentials to ensure they have been trained to perform septoplasty. I encourage you to learn more about how to select a septoplasty surgeon on my blog.
Does septoplasty cure snoring?
Septoplasty can improve sleep airflow or snoring issues caused by a deviated septum.
Does septoplasty change your nose shape?
Septoplasty primarily corrects a deviated nasal septum and improves nasal function; its goal is not to change the way your nose looks. However, correcting deviations may produce minor changes such as improved nostril symmetry (as you can see in the before-and-after photos below). The surgery can also sometimes fix a crooked nose by realigning the underlying cartilage and bone.
If you’d like cosmetic changes to the appearance of your nose, you can combine rhinoplasty and septoplasty to address both functional and aesthetic concerns.
Deviated Septum Surgery Before and After
Surgery Information
How is the surgery done?
The surgeon performs the procedure while you are under general anesthesia or a local anesthetic and sedation. They make a thin incision along the septum, which allows them to remove excess cartilage or bone.
In my practice, I often decide to realign the bone and cartilage instead, which conserves the nasal structures. This straightens out the nasal passages and makes breathing easier.
How long does a septoplasty take?
The surgery itself takes around 30 to 90 minutes to complete. Most patients can return home the same day as their surgery.
Can septoplasty surgery be combined with a rhinoplasty?
Yes, in many cases, I combine septoplasty with rhinoplasty (nose job) for my San Francisco patients who want both functional and cosmetic improvements. Septorhinoplasty is a great way for you to change the appearance of your nose while also correcting septum issues.
Recovery Information
How long does swelling last after septoplasty?
Swelling may last for 2 to 3 days after your septoplasty procedure, and it is normal for the nose to continue to drain for a few more days.
What is septoplasty recovery like?
In the first few days after surgery, it’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort around the nose and eyes. Nasal congestion and a feeling of blockage are common as internal tissues heal. Here are a few tips for making your recovery more comfortable:
- Rest with your head elevated
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Refrain from blowing your nose for at least a week.
- Use a cold compress to ease swelling and discomfort (but keep your nose dry)
Most people can return to work or school within a week, but full recovery of the cartilage and bone can take a few months. Be sure to attend all your follow-up appointments so I can monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.
Is there pain during septoplasty recovery?
I use a long-acting local anesthetic that can reduce or eliminate pain for between 3 to 5 days after your surgery. Beyond that time, over-the-counter medication can help with any potential discomfort.
How long after septoplasty can I start breathing better?
Most patients experience better breathing fairly quickly after their surgery, especially after the postsurgical nasal packing is removed. It may take several weeks to a few months to reach your optimal results.
When can I blow my nose after septoplasty surgery?
Do not blow your nose for 2 weeks after surgery. It is vital to give your body plenty of time to heal after the procedure. Blowing your nose too early can damage the sutures and potentially cause bleeding. If you experience nasal pressure and feel the urge to sneeze, try to do so with your mouth open.
Septoplasty Cost Information
How much is a septoplasty procedure?
The cost depends on your particular needs and anatomy, as well as other individual factors. RealSelf reports that the procedure can range from $3,000 to $22,000, depending on factors such as where you are located, your surgeon’s expertise, and more. The average cost of septoplasty in San Francisco is $16,500, according to RealSelf.
It is important to remember that adding rhinoplasty to your septoplasty will increase the cost of your surgery. Discuss your options with your doctor to see which solutions are right for you.
Is septoplasty covered by insurance?
Some insurance carriers may cover septoplasty when it is medically necessary. However, we do not accept insurance at our practice.
Take the Next Step
If you struggle with chronic breathing issues, don’t force yourself to live with discomfort. Septoplasty is a safe, satisfying procedure that can instantly improve your quality of life.
If you’re interested in septoplasty, and you’re in the San Francisco area, please request a consultation online. You can also contact my practice by phone at (415) 441-1888.
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