Do I Need Surgery For A Deviated Septum?
If you have a deviated septum, surgery may only be necessary if your symptoms significantly affect your breathing or quality of life. Many people have some degree of a deviated septum without needing treatment. However, if you experience chronic nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing through your nose, recurrent sinus infections, or poor sleep related to nasal blockage, an ENT specialist may recommend septoplasty surgery.
Key Takeaways
- A deviated septum is a crooked nasal septum that can block airflow
- Mild deviations may not require treatment
- Surgery is usually recommended when breathing problems become significant
- Septoplasty can help improve nasal airflow and quality of life
- An ENT specialist can determine whether surgery is appropriate
What Is a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage and bone dividing the nasal passages are off-center or crooked. This can narrow one side of the nose and make breathing more difficult.
Some people are born with a deviated septum, while others develop one after an injury to the nose.
Common Symptoms of a Deviated Septum
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Nasal congestion, often worse on one side
- Frequent sinus infections
- Snoring or sleep problems
- Nosebleeds
- Facial pressure or headaches
Not everyone with a deviated septum experiences symptoms severe enough to require surgery.
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Septoplasty surgery may be recommended if:
- You have persistent nasal obstruction
- Medications are not improving symptoms
- Breathing problems affect sleep or exercise
- You experience frequent sinus infections
- The deviation significantly impacts daily life
If you are breathing comfortably and symptoms are minimal, surgery may not be necessary.
Can a Deviated Septum Be Treated Without Surgery?
In some cases, symptoms can be managed without surgery using:
- Nasal steroid sprays
- Allergy treatment
- Decongestants
- Saline rinses
These treatments may help reduce inflammation but do not physically straighten the septum.
About Dr. Karen Fong
Dr. Karen Fong is a board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) at BASS Medical Group with expertise in disorders of the nose, sinuses, and skull base.
Video Transcript
If you have a deviated septum, you might be wondering whether surgery is necessary. A deviated septum refers to a crooked nasal septum, the cartilage and bony structure that divides your nose into two sides.
The most common symptom of a deviated septum is nasal obstruction, usually on one side of the nose.
Surgery is only necessary if you are unable to breathe well through your nose. If you can breathe comfortably, surgery is not needed.
While many people have some degree of a deviated septum, not everyone requires surgery.
For more information, visit BASS Medical Group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a deviated septum get worse over time?
Yes. Aging, inflammation, allergies, or nasal trauma can worsen symptoms over time.
Is septoplasty painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort and congestion after surgery rather than severe pain.
How long does recovery take after septoplasty?
Most people return to normal daily activities within about a week, although complete healing may take several weeks.
Will insurance cover deviated septum surgery?
Insurance may cover septoplasty if the procedure is considered medically necessary due to breathing obstruction or related symptoms.
Medical Disclaimer: Content provided by BASS Medical Group is intended for general informational purposes only and does not establish a physician-patient relationship. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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