Where the deviation is
Not all deviations are the same. The preoperative examination identifies where it is and what it is like, and this determines the appropriate technique.
Dr. Gustavo Suárez · Nose surgery
Septoplastyin Barcelona.
A deviated septum narrows the airway and makes everyday breathing difficult. Septoplasty corrects it without planning changes to the external shape of the nose.
Request a consultation What septoplasty isThe problem it addresses
A deviated septum
and airflow.
The septum is the structure of cartilage and bone that divides the nose into two cavities. When it folds, becomes deformed or curves predominantly to one side, it can obstruct airflow.
Congestion, snoring, nasal dryness, a reduced sense of smell, tiredness or headache may accompany a deviation. Dr. Suárez recommends surgery when the deviation causes health problems that affect daily life and sleep quality; deviations that cause no symptoms do not usually require correction.
What is assessed
What is assessed
during the consultation.
Dr. Suárez reviews medical history, previous treatments and regular medication, which can influence the risk of bleeding. He examines the septum and the structures involved in airflow, including the nasal valves and turbinates.
A thorough examination, including nasal endoscopy, identifies where the deviation is and what it is like, which determines the appropriate technique. The same examination distinguishes whether the problem involves the septum, the turbinates or also the external shape of the nose.
What the initial consultation involvesHow it is performed
How
the septum is corrected.
Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum to improve airflow. Endonasal access is through the natural openings and leaves no external incision; cases requiring an open approach involve different planning.
Possible approaches
Septal surgery allows different approaches: endoscopic, open or extracorporeal. The choice depends on the complexity of the deviation, rather than a general preference.
Other indications
It may be part of treatment for patients with other nasal problems or facilitate access for another operation. On its own, it does not remove polyps or guarantee resolution of sinusitis, snoring or apnoea.
When there is also a change in shape
Septum correction can be performed at the same time as rhinoplasty. This combined procedure is septorhinoplasty.
When the turbinates are also involved
If the obstruction also comes from enlarged turbinates, the assessment takes this into account. Turbinate surgery addresses a different structure.
After surgery
How
recovery progresses.
Recovery from septoplasty is gradual. Care at each stage is explained during the consultation before surgery.
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At first
Initial congestion and swelling. These are part of postoperative recovery and gradually subside.
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Care
Avoiding blowing your nose, sneezing with your mouth open and sleeping propped up help protect the operated area.
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Returning to activity
Activity is resumed gradually, as recovery allows.
Before deciding
Risks
and limitations.
Risks and limitations
Although uncommon, recognised risks include infection, excessive bleeding, a reduced sense of smell, changes in scarring, septal perforation, an accumulation of blood or temporary numbness. In exceptional cases, nasal surgery can also leave permanent breathing difficulties. Overall, the likelihood of these complications occurring is low.
Septoplasty corrects the septum and is not intended to change the appearance of the nose.
During the consultation, following medical assessment, the risks are explained individually according to each patient's characteristics.
Before deciding
Frequently asked
questions.
Common questions before and after septal surgery.
What is the difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty?
Septoplasty corrects the septum to resolve obstruction and improve breathing. Rhinoplasty changes the shape or size of the nose. When both are needed, the combined procedure is septorhinoplasty.
Does the nose change after septoplasty?
Changing appearance is not its aim: it addresses the septum. The endonasal approach does not leave an external incision; if an open approach or a change in shape is also required, this must be explained as part of the individual plan.
How long does it take to recover from septoplasty?
There is no single timeframe that applies to everyone. Initial congestion and swelling are part of the process, and activity is resumed gradually. The return to work or exercise depends on the procedure, progress and type of activity.
What is someone like after septoplasty?
There is congestion and swelling during the first few days, with specific instructions: avoid blowing your nose, sneeze with your mouth open and sleep with your head slightly elevated. Aftercare is explained before surgery.
Is septoplasty painful?
Discomfort and a blocked-nose sensation are part of the first few days. Postoperative care and follow-up are explained before the procedure, together with possible complications.
Related procedures
Other procedures
in the same area.
Septorhinoplasty
Corrects the septum and the external shape of the nose in the same procedure, when the deviation affects breathing and appearance.
Turbinate surgery
Reduces the volume of the turbinates when their enlargement obstructs airflow and medical treatment does not resolve it.