What is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum, the thin wall separating the two sides of the nose, is displaced to one side. This misalignment can block one or both nasal passages, causing chronic breathing problems. A deviated septum may be congenital and has plagued you throughout life or result from an impact on the nose.

What is Septoplasty Surgery at Texas ENT Specialists in Houston?

During septoplasty, our board-certified ear, nose, and throat surgeon will carefully reposition or remove the portions of cartilage and bone causing the obstruction. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Small incisions are made inside the nose, leaving you with no visible scars. Once the septum is straightened, the nasal passages are opened, allowing for improved airflow. Septoplasty is usually an outpatient surgery, and you can return home to rest and recover the same day.

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Who is a Candidate for Septoplasty?

You may be a good candidate for septoplasty if you are experiencing:

  • Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
  • Chronic nasal congestion or frequent sinus infections
  • Snoring or sleep disturbances due to a blocked nasal passage
  • Recurring nosebleeds

If you have suffered a nasal injury or cannot breathe freely through one nostril, it can significantly impact your quality of life, and a septoplasty may be the right option for you.

What Are the Benefits of Septoplasty?

  • Improved Breathing: After septoplasty, many patients experience significant improvements in their ability to breathe as the nasal passages are opened, allowing for better airflow.
  • Fewer Sinus Infections: A deviated septum can block proper sinus drainage, leading to recurring infections. Septoplasty helps restore proper drainage, reducing the frequency of sinus infections.
  • Better Sleep: By enhancing airflow through the nasal passages, septoplasty can help improve sleep quality, particularly for those who snore or have sleep apnea.
  • Improved Senses of Smell and Taste: A Septoplasty can help restore these senses, allowing for the enjoyment of a broader range of sensory experiences.
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After Your Septoplasty—What to Expect

Recovery from septoplasty usually takes in the range of one to two weeks. You may experience mild swelling, discomfort, and congestion immediately following the surgery, but these symptoms improve within a few days. Your ENT specialist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, including how to manage discomfort and keep your nasal passages clear. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, with full recovery expected in a few weeks.

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What Can Septoplasty Do for My Health?

Septoplasty offers long-lasting benefits by correcting nasal blockages and improving airflow. The procedure can help:

  • Relieve chronic nasal congestion
  • Improve breathing and overall lung function
  • Reduce snoring and improve sleep quality
  • Lower the frequency of sinus infections
  • Enhance the overall quality of life by restoring normal nasal function
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Why Choose Texas ENT Specialists in Houston?

At Texas ENT Specialists in Houston, our team of experienced ENT surgeons is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for patients of all ages. We use advanced techniques to ensure successful outcomes with minimal discomfort. Our patient-centered approach means your treatment plan is personalized to resolve your issues and geared to bring you lasting relief from the symptoms of a deviated septum. Trust us to guide you through every step, from diagnosis to recovery, so you can breathe easier and live better.

With 15 convenient locations across the Houston area, we’re never far away.

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