Deviated Septum & Septoplasty
A deviated septum is when the wall of cartilage and bone dividing the nose is bent or off-centre, narrowing one or both sides and making it hard to breathe. When it disturbs breathing, sleep, or causes recurrent sinus problems, a day-case operation called septoplasty straightens it to restore clear breathing.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Marwan Alhalalmeh, ENT Specialist · Last reviewed: 2026-06-17
Overview
The nasal septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nose into two passages. When it is bent or off-centre — present from birth or after an injury — one or both sides of the nose can become narrowed. A mild deviation often causes no trouble, but a significant one can block airflow, disturb sleep, and make sinus infections more likely. An ENT specialist assesses the septum with a nasal examination, sometimes using an endoscope, and recommends treatment only when symptoms justify it. The corrective procedure, septoplasty, straightens the septum to restore clear breathing.
Symptoms
- Persistent blockage of one or both sides of the nose
- Difficulty breathing through the nose, often worse on one side
- Snoring or disturbed sleep
- Recurrent sinus infections or facial pressure
- Frequent nosebleeds or nasal dryness
- A reduced sense of smell
When to see a doctor
- Nasal blockage that does not improve with sprays or allergy treatment
- Breathing difficulty that affects sleep or exercise
- Repeated sinus infections or nosebleeds
- Blockage that began after a nasal injury
Treatment options
- Examination of the septum, including nasal endoscopy when needed
- Treating contributing allergies or inflammation first
- Septoplasty — a day-case operation through the nostrils with no external scars
- Combining with sinus or turbinate surgery when appropriate
- Functional rhinoplasty when both breathing and shape need correction
Common questions
Will a deviated septum get better on its own?
No — a structural deviation does not correct itself. Mild cases may need no treatment, but a deviation that blocks breathing is improved by septoplasty rather than medication.
Is septoplasty painful, and are there visible scars?
Septoplasty is performed inside the nostrils, so there are no external scars and usually little pain. Most people feel congested for a week or two while healing settles.
What is the difference between septoplasty and rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty straightens the inner septum to improve breathing, while rhinoplasty changes the external shape of the nose. They can be combined when both function and appearance need attention.
How long is recovery after septoplasty?
Most people return to everyday activities within about one to two weeks. The nose feels congested while it heals as swelling and crusting settle, and strenuous exercise is usually avoided for a short period. Breathing then improves steadily over the following weeks.
Can a deviated septum cause sinus infections or headaches?
It can contribute. By narrowing one side of the nose and blocking normal drainage, a significant deviation can make sinus infections more likely and, in some people, add to facial pressure or headaches. Correcting the septum often reduces these knock-on problems.
Further reading
General information about this topic from an independent health authority:
ENThealth (AAO-HNS)If a blocked nose is affecting your breathing or sleep, Dr. Marwan can examine your septum and explain whether septoplasty would help.
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