The nasal septum is the wall dividing the nasal cavity. When the septum is severely shifted to the side, it is called a deviated septum. The septum can be deviated at birth or because of injury. In most cases the septum is deviated somewhat, but usually doesn’t cause symptoms.

Some of the more common symptoms of a deviated septum are a blockage of one or both nostrils, nasal congestion that is sometimes one-sided, frequent nosebleeds or sinus infections.  At times symptoms can also include facial pain, headaches and a postnasal drip

Surgery to straighten the septum is called a septoplasty.  It is performed entirely through the nostrils. The time needed for the operation is about one to two hours.  A local or a general anesthetic is used, and it is usually done on an outpatient basis.  Portions of the septum that are badly deviated may be removed entirely, or they may be readjusted and reinserted into the nose.  Nasal packing is inserted during the surgery to prevent excessive bleeding after the surgery.  Sometimes a septoplasty is done with other procedures.

• A septoplasty is the preferred surgical treatment to correct a deviated septum.
• While complications related to septoplasty do not appear to be common, some risks are associated with the surgical procedure.

Will I live longer if I have this procedure?

Scientific evidence does not show that a septoplasty lengthens your life.

Will a septoplasty improve my quality of life?

Yes, scientific evidence indicates that the majority of individuals who have this procedure report a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in their quality of life, related to those symptoms.

Will having a septoplasty improve my symptoms?

Published studies have indicated that of individuals who have a septoplasty, most of them had an  improvement in symptoms at three months and six months after surgery. However, it is possible that symptoms may not improve.

How safe is this for me?

Complications related to septoplasty appear to be rare.  However, some risk is associated with any surgery, such as swelling, infection, bleeding, or perforation.  Rarely, loss of smell occurs following surgery.

A septoplasty is the preferred surgical treatment to correct a deviated septum.

Alternative medical treatments can include:

• Anti-inflammatory prescription nasal spray
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Saline nasal mists and sprays

The cost for septoplasty generally ranges between $3,500 and $6,500.

The cost may or may not be covered by your health benefits plan.

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