Breathing should be effortless, but for many individuals with a deviated septum, it becomes a daily challenge. A crooked or displaced nasal septum can lead to chronic congestion, snoring, and even sinus infections. Septoplasty is a functional nasal surgery that corrects this internal issue, improving airflow and overall nasal function. Often performed alongside cosmetic procedures, septoplasty enhances your ability to breathe clearly while maintaining the integrity of your nose’s appearance.
Medically Reviewed by Dr Colin Tham
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
The nasal septum refers to the internal “wall” between the two sides of the nose. It consists mainly of cartilage, mucosal linings and bone at its base. A septoplasty refers to a surgical procedure which corrects a deformity of the septum.
Deviation of the nasal septum due to trauma, disease or sometimes, naturally-occurring, can lead to functional obstruction to breathing. Relief of this obstruction usually requires a nose surgery known as a Septoplasty; which is then considered a medical procedure.
Septoplasties are also performed to correct abnormalities of the septum leading to visible deformity of the external nose.
It is quite common and convenient to combine a rhinoplasty (cosmetic or medical) with a septoplasty.
A septoplasty usually takes about an hour. A septorhinoplasty usually ranges from two to three hours.
A septoplasty is performed through a closed approach; the scars are hidden within the internal nose, there are generally no external visible scars.
As septoplasties are closed operations, there is usually minimal visible swelling. Most patients would return to work within 2-3 days.
Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon MB ChB (Aberdeen), FRCS (Ireland), FAMS
Dr Colin Tham is an experienced plastic surgeon skilled in all types of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, as well as non-surgical rejuvenation. He is accredited by the Ministry of Health in Singapore and has over 20 years of experience in the field. Dr Tham received extensive plastic surgery training in Scotland, Taiwan, and Singapore; and is committed to providing beautiful and natural-looking outcomes for all his patients.