Medical description
Septoplasty is a procedure that corrects a deviation of the nasal septum, the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils. When it is deviated, the septum can obstruct the flow of air on one or both sides and lead to mouth breathing, snoring or a permanent blocked-nose sensation. Unlike septorhinoplasty, functional septoplasty does not seek to change the external shape of the nose: its sole aim is to improve breathing. It can be combined with a procedure on the turbinates when these are too large.
What the procedure can correct
- Deviated nasal septum
- Permanently blocked nose on one or both sides
- Mouth breathing, especially at night
- Snoring caused by nasal obstruction
- Breathing difficulty after a nasal injury
The ideal candidate
An adult whose breathing difficulty is caused by a deviated septum, confirmed by an internal nasal examination and sometimes by imaging. Non-anatomical causes, such as allergic rhinitis or polyps, must be assessed and treated beforehand. If you also wish to change the appearance of your nose, a septorhinoplasty is more suitable.
The technique
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and entirely through the inside of the nose, leaving no visible scar. The surgeon lifts the lining that covers the septum, removes or repositions the deviated portions of cartilage and bone, then puts the lining back in place. Internal splints or packing may be left in for a few days to hold the septum in place while it heals.
Your stay, step by step
- 1
Arrival and consultation
Welcome by your coordinator, examination and pre-operative consultation with the practitioner, who confirms the treatment plan.
- 2
Procedure
General · 1–1.5 h
- 3
Monitoring in the clinic
Hospital stay: Day case or 1 night. The care team looks after your comfort and post-operative monitoring.
- 4
Check-up before departure
Follow-up visit, care, instructions and prescription before your flight home. Recommended stay: 5–7 days.
- 5
Remote follow-up
Back home, your coordinator remains your contact and organises follow-up with the practitioner (photos and messages via WhatsApp, then through your secure patient area once it opens).
Risks and recovery
The nose remains blocked for a few days, with slight bleeding at first. Less commonly, bleeding, a haematoma or infection of the septum, septal perforation, a change in the sense of smell or persistent breathing difficulty may occur. Your surgeon will explain these in detail during the consultation.
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and does not replace a medical consultation. Every procedure carries risks; the indication is made by the practitioner after examination, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Will the shape of my nose change?
No. Functional septoplasty works only on the septum, inside the nose. If you would also like a cosmetic change, your surgeon may suggest a septorhinoplasty.
When will I breathe better?
The nose is congested for the first few days, until the packing has been removed and the swelling goes down. The improvement in breathing is felt gradually over the following weeks.
Can I fly soon afterwards?
Travelling home is generally possible after your surgeon's check-up and the removal of the splints, within the recommended length of stay. During the flight, it is advisable to avoid blowing your nose hard and to keep the nose well moisturised.
