Septoplasty Surgery: When Do You Need It & What to Expect

Breathing through a blocked nose every day can feel exhausting, and for many people, the cause is a deviated septum. This structural issue affects up to 80% of adults to some degree, and it can lead to chronic congestion, recurrent sinus infections, and even sleep problems. 

Septoplasty surgery is designed to correct the septum and restore clear airflow, often improving both health and quality of life. If you’re considering this procedure, it helps to understand what happens before, during, and after surgery. 

Read on as we break down the most frequently asked questions about septoplasty while sharing insights on choosing the best septoplasty surgeon in Los Angeles.

What Is Septoplasty Surgery? 

Septoplasty is a nasal surgery that focuses on improving how you breathe by correcting a deviated septum. When the wall of cartilage and bone that separates your two nasal passages is crooked or off-center, it can block airflow, leading to ongoing congestion, sinus infections, and difficulty breathing through the nose. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, which changes the shape of the nose for appearance, septoplasty is performed for function, with the primary goal of opening the airway and easing breathing. Many patients experience life-changing benefits after surgery, including improved sleep, clearer nasal breathing, and reduced sinus-related health issues.

How Do I Know If I Need Septoplasty?

You might be a candidate for septoplasty if you’re constantly struggling to breathe through your nose, especially if one side feels more blocked than the other. A deviated septum can cause:

• Ongoing nasal congestion
• Frequent sinus infections
• Sleep apnea
• Loud snoring
• Feeling that you can’t get enough air through one or both nostrils

An ENT specialist can confirm whether a deviated septum is the cause by using tools like nasal endoscopy to look inside your nasal passages. While medications such as decongestants or nasal sprays may offer short-term relief, septoplasty is often recommended when these options no longer control your symptoms and you’re ready for a permanent solution.

What Happens During Septoplasty Surgery?

During septoplasty surgery, you’ll be given general anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the 30 to 90-minute procedure. During this time, the surgeon works inside your nose, carefully repositioning or removing small sections of cartilage and bone that are blocking your airway. Since all the incisions are made within the nostrils, there are no visible scars left on the outside of your nose, which makes recovery more discreet. 

What Is the Recovery Time After Septoplasty? 

Recovery after septoplasty surgery is usually manageable, but it does take time and patience. Most people are able to return to work or school within one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of their surgery and the rate of their body's healing. In the first few days, it’s normal to have nasal swelling, nasal congestion, and some mild discomfort, but these symptoms gradually improve with rest and proper care. While you’ll start to notice breathing improvements once the initial swelling goes down, full healing on the inside of the nose can take several months. 

What Risks or Side Effects Should I Know About? 

Like any surgery, septoplasty comes with some side effects and risks, though most are temporary and improve as you heal: 

• Common side effects after surgery include nasal congestion, a small amount of bleeding, and a reduced sense of smell in the first days or weeks after the procedure. 
• Rare complications can include infection, a hole in the septum, or ongoing breathing problems if the tissue doesn’t heal as expected. 

The good news is that these risks are significantly reduced when you choose an experienced septoplasty surgeon in Los Angeles who specializes in both safety and precision. With expert care, most patients recover smoothly and enjoy lasting improvements in their breathing.

How Do I Choose the Best ENT in Los Angeles for Septoplasty Surgery

Breathing well is the foundation of how you sleep, focus, and feel every day, which is why choosing the best septoplasty surgeon in Los Angeles matters so much.

At our conveniently located offices in Santa Monica and Torrance, you'll find the best ENT in Los Angeles, where Dr. Payam Daneshrad combines board-certified expertise in ear, nose, and throat care with advanced training in facial plastic surgery. What sets our approach apart is the personal attention you receive. Your consultation is always with Dr. Daneshrad himself and is supported by state-of-the-art technology, including in-office CT scanning and a fully integrated surgery center. 

Whether it’s septoplasty or more comprehensive ENT care, we prioritize your health with accessible appointments and a commitment to lasting outcomes.