Septoplasty Explained: Restoring Balance to Your Breathing and Wellness

A good night’s sleep should leave you feeling refreshed and full of energy the following day. If you’re waking up feeling like you barely slept, with a dry mouth or scratchy throat, it could be because you’ve been struggling to breathe through your nose. 

Nasal obstruction can affect your energy levels, sleep, and even your long-term health. Conditions like a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or chronic sinusitis can block airflow, forcing you to breathe through your mouth. 

While mouth breathing might seem minor, it often leads to dry mouth, bad breath, sore throats, restless sleep, and dental issues over time. Nasal sprays, decongestants, and breathing strips can help temporarily, but they’re like putting a bandage on a broken arm; they don’t fix the underlying problem. 

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct structural issues in the nose, such as a deviated septum. In addition to helping you breathe easier, it can improve your sleep, boost your energy, and help you feel like yourself again. 

Mani Zadeh, MD, our board-certified ear, nose, and throat specialist, is the go-to expert for this procedure. He has extensive experience and believes in putting patients first and ensuring you get the care you deserve. Here, he outlines all you need to know about this life-changing procedure. 

What is a septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects a deviated septum, the thin cartilage and bone wall separating your two nasal passages. Ideally, the septum should sit right in the middle of your nose. However, for many, it’s off-center or crooked. This misalignment can block airflow, making it difficult to breathe through one or both nostrils.

During the procedure, Dr. Zadeh carefully reshapes or removes the parts of the septum that are causing the problem. Septoplasty straightens the septum, improving airflow and making breathing easier. Depending on the complexity of your case, the surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia. 

Septoplasty is a long-term solution. Once healed, you’ll likely find breathing, sleeping, and exercising easier and more comfortable.

What to expect from the procedure 

It all starts with a thorough evaluation. Dr. Zadeh will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and use imaging tests to assess the severity of your deviated septum. Before surgery, you’ll get detailed instructions on how to prep for surgery, like when to stop eating or drinking and which medications to avoid.

The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes. Dr. Zadeh makes an incision inside the nose so there are no visible scars. He then reshapes or removes the deviated portions of the septum. You can usually go home the same day. You might feel some congestion and mild discomfort, but this usually improves within a week or two. Complete healing can take a few months as your nose settles into its new shape.

Life after septoplasty

Most people notice the difference quickly. Beyond just breathing easier, you might notice reduced snoring and improved sleep quality, making you feel more rested. With better oxygen flow, you’ll likely also feel more alert and energized.

Some people notice an improved sense of smell and taste. Better drainage means less congestion and fewer infections. Septoplasty isn’t just a fix for your nose; it improves your overall well-being.

You don’t have to live with the frustration of chronic nasal congestion. Whether you’re struggling with sleep issues, constant congestion, or the frustrating effects of mouth breathing, septoplasty could be the solution to restore your health and wellness. Contact Mani Zadeh, MD, to schedule a consultation today.