Septoplasty: Treatment for Breathing & Sinus Issues

Some breathing and sinus issues are caused by a deviated septum. Our ear, nose and throat doctors in Phoenix may recommend septoplasty as a treatment to improve your breathing and sinus issues if you have a deviated septum.

What is a Deviated Septum?

The septum is the bone and cartilage that runs between your nostrils. If this thin wall is not centered between your nostrils, this is called a deviated septum. If your septum is severely off center, this may block your airflow from one nostril, making it difficult to breathe. You may also experience sinus infections due to poor drainage as well as nosebleeds often because one nostril is more exposed to dry air.

The Goal of Septoplasty

Septoplasty is performed to straighten the bone and cartilage so there is improved airflow through both nostrils.

What to Expect During Septoplasty

Prior to the procedure, our deviated septum doctors in Phoenix will administer local or general anesthesia. The septum will be straightened by removing and/or replacing bone and cartilage to create symmetry between your nostril sizes. Every procedure is 100% customized for your unique nasal anatomy: some patients only require a small amount of trimming and repositioning while others may need more extensive work on the bones and the bridge of the nose to create alignment. Your doctor will explain the process in detail for your unique situation during an appointment.  

What to Expect After Septoplasty

Septoplasty is an outpatient procedure, so you will return home after the procedure. The incisions used during the procedure will be absorbable, so they will not need to be removed. We may insert soft silicone splints into your nose to support the septum during the healing process. It may take 3-6 months for your septum to become stable.

During the first couple of weeks, it will be advisable to:

• Elevate your head while sleeping to decrease the risk of swelling and bleeding
• Avoid blowing your nose
• Wear button-down shirts to avoid pulling shirts over your nose
• Take a break from strenuous activities or exercise until your nose is healed

You Have Questions: We Have Answers

When you come in for your appointment, we’ll cover commonly asked questions about septoplasty such as:

• What is septoplasty?
• Is septoplasty safe?
• How long is recovery after septoplasty?
• And many more

To find out if you have a deviated septum and if septoplasty in Phoenix is the right treatment to improve your breathing and sinus problems, contact our office today at (602) 956-1250 or click here to request an appointment.