The septum is the thin wall of bone and cartilage that divides the inside of the nose into two sides. Almost nobody has a perfectly straight septum, and a slight bend causes no trouble at all. When the bend is large enough to block airflow, though, it can affect breathing, sleep and even the sinuses. That is when septoplasty is considered.
Dr. Sahil Kapoor has trained in endoscopic sinus and septal correction surgery and performs septoplasty for patients in Gurgaon. He consults at Ace ENT Care, 238, Sector 5, Gurugram.
Symptoms of a deviated nasal septum
- A blocked nose, usually worse on one side
- Mouth breathing, especially at night
- Snoring
- Repeated sinus infections or headaches
- Nosebleeds from the dry, exposed area on one side
- Difficulty using steroid sprays properly because one side is narrow
A deviation can be present from birth or follow an injury to the nose, sometimes years earlier.
Do you need surgery?
Not always. If the blockage is mild, or is mostly due to allergy or swollen turbinates, medicines may be enough. Septoplasty is usually advised when:
- The bend clearly blocks the airway on examination
- Symptoms continue despite a proper trial of nasal sprays and allergy treatment
- The deviation contributes to sinus disease, snoring or sleep apnea
- It is needed for access during sinus surgery
The decision is made after a nasal endoscopy in the clinic, and sometimes a CT scan.
How septoplasty is done
Septoplasty is done through the nostrils, so there is no cut on the outside of the nose and no change to how the nose looks. It is usually done under general anaesthesia and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Through a small incision inside the nose, the bent parts of cartilage and bone are straightened or removed, and the lining is placed back.
Septoplasty is often combined with:
- Turbinate reduction, if the turbinates are also swollen
- FESS, if there is chronic sinusitis
Septoplasty only corrects the inside of the nose. If you want a change in the outer shape, that is a different operation called septorhinoplasty.
Recovery after septoplasty
- Most patients go home the same day or the next morning.
- Soft packs or silicone splints may be placed inside the nose for a few days.
- Expect a blocked nose, mild bleeding and some discomfort for the first week.
- Avoid blowing the nose hard, lifting heavy weights and strenuous exercise for about two weeks.
- Saline rinses help healing.
- Most people return to office work in about a week.
Breathing usually improves noticeably once the swelling settles, which takes a few weeks.
Risks
Septoplasty is a common and generally safe operation. Possible risks include bleeding, infection, a small hole in the septum (perforation), adhesions inside the nose and, rarely, a change in the shape of the nose. These are explained before surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will septoplasty change the shape of my nose?
No. Septoplasty works inside the nose. The outer shape stays the same.
Is septoplasty painful?
Most patients feel a heavy, blocked nose more than pain. Regular painkillers are usually enough.
Will I stop snoring after septoplasty?
It may reduce snoring if the blocked nose is the main cause. Snoring often has more than one cause, so a full evaluation helps. See snoring treatment.
What is the septoplasty cost in Gurgaon?
The cost depends on whether septoplasty is done alone or with turbinate or sinus surgery, the anaesthesia and the hospital stay. You will get an estimate after examination.
Is septoplasty covered under insurance or Ayushman card?
When it is medically needed for breathing, septoplasty is usually covered by health insurance and is part of PMJAY packages for eligible patients. See the Ayushman card page.
Book a consultation
Call +91-8178774813 or use the appointment page. Related: nose and sinus treatment in Gurgaon.
Clinic Location
238, Sector 5, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
