What Is the Nasal Septum and Why Does It Deform

The nasal septum is composed of cartilage and bone, dividing the nasal cavity into two parts.
Ideally, it should be straight, allowing air to pass evenly through both nostrils. Yet, around 70–80% of people have some degree of deviation.

Deformation can be:

• Congenital – present from birth;

• Acquired – due to trauma, fracture, or inflammation.

Even small deviations may not be visible but can cause significant breathing difficulties.

How Septal Deviation Affects Breathing

When the septum is deviated, one side of the nose becomes partially blocked while the other develops swelling and congestion.
Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose (often one-sided);

• Constant congestion or snoring;

• Dryness or mucus buildup;

• Headaches, fatigue, insomnia;

• Frequent sinusitis or ear infections;

• Reduced sense of smell.

Mouth breathing can lead to throat dryness, chronic cough, and overall oxygen deficiency.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is made through endoscopic examination, which allows the doctor to assess the septum and nasal structures precisely.
In some cases, CT scans are performed to plan surgery or detect other issues such as polyps or sinusitis.

What Is Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to straighten the nasal septum and restore normal breathing.
It is performed endoscopically, without external incisions, using a small camera and specialized instruments through the nasal passages.
Only the obstructing portion is corrected, and the external shape of the nose remains unchanged — septoplasty is a functional, not a cosmetic, procedure.

Procedure Overview

• Performed under general or local anesthesia.

• Average duration: 30–40 minutes.

• The surgeon reshapes or removes parts of cartilage or bone blocking airflow.

• Soft silicone splints are placed in the nose for 1–2 days.

Patients are usually discharged the next day and fully recover within 7–10 days.

Advantages of Modern Endoscopic Septoplasty

• No external scars or deformities;

• Painless procedure;

• Minimal bleeding;

• Fast recovery;

• Complete restoration of natural breathing;

• Reduction of snoring and fatigue.

Postoperative Period

Slight swelling or dryness may occur for a few days — this is normal. The doctor prescribes:

• Special sprays and nasal rinses;

• Mild pain relievers if needed;

• Temporary limitation of physical activity (about one week).

Results are noticeable within the first week — breathing becomes deep, free, and balanced.

Why Septoplasty Is Important

A deviated septum not only causes discomfort but can also lead to chronic sinusitis, hearing problems, oxygen deficiency, and even heart rhythm or blood pressure disturbances over time.
Proper nasal breathing is essential for brain oxygenation, quality sleep, and overall vitality.

When to See a Doctor

Consult an ENT specialist if you experience:

• Persistent nasal breathing difficulties;

• Snoring or insomnia;

• Frequent sinus infections;

• Reduced sense of smell;

• Headaches or fatigue due to oxygen deficiency.

Timely diagnosis and septoplasty will restore healthy breathing and energy to your life.

Septoplasty at Khozrevanidze Clinic

At Khozrevanidze Clinic, septoplasty is performed using advanced endoscopic techniques ensuring maximum precision and safety.
Our ENT surgeons apply minimally invasive methods that combine:

• Accurate visualization during surgery;

• Rapid rehabilitation;

• Painless process and natural results.

Each patient undergoes full diagnostics — endoscopy, CT if needed — followed by an individualized treatment plan.