What Is Nasal Bone Deviation (Deviated Septum)?
Nasal bone deviation, medically known as a deviated septum, is when the cartilage and bone structures (the septum) that divide the nasal cavity into two shift away from the midline. Normally this structure should be straight, but it can become deviated from birth or after trauma.
What Causes It?
- Congenital (developmental)
- Impacts / trauma to the nose
- Unnoticed fractures during childhood
What Are the Symptoms?
A deviated septum doesn't cause the same complaints in everyone, but the following symptoms can be seen with noticeable deviations:
- Constant or one-sided nasal congestion
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Frequent sinusitis attacks
- Headache and facial pressure
- Nasal dryness and occasional bleeding
What Are the Effects?
When left untreated:
- It reduces quality of life
- It disrupts sleep quality
- It can increase the risk of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
- It can set the stage for sinusitis and ear problems
What Is the Treatment?
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment doesn't correct a deviated septum, but it can ease symptoms. Nasal sprays, allergy treatment, and moisturizing solutions can be used for this.
Surgical Treatment
A surgery called septoplasty corrects the deviated septum. A closed method is used; there's no change to the external appearance of the nose (unless aesthetic work is also done). If needed, turbinate reduction can be performed at the same time.
How Does the Post-Surgery Process Progress?
Recovery is usually quick. There may be mild congestion and swelling in the first days. Noticeable relief is achieved within 1-2 weeks.
When Should Surgery Be Considered?
- If breathing difficulty persists despite medical treatment
- If recurrent sinusitis attacks or nosebleeds occur
- If sleep apnea or noticeable snoring accompanies it
- If there's a shape deformity after an accident or impact
Frequently Asked Questions
Are nasal bone deviation and septal deviation the same thing?
No. Nasal bone deviation affects the externally visible bone structure, while septal deviation affects the cartilage-bone partition inside the nose. Both can cause breathing difficulty; when they occur together they can be corrected in the same session.
How does the recovery process progress after septoplasty?
Nasal packing stays in place for 1-2 days after surgery. Breathing eases once the packing is removed. Mild bleeding and discharge are normal in the first week. Most patients can return to work by days 5-7; full recovery takes 4-6 weeks.
Does septoplasty change the outer appearance of the nose?
No, unless it's planned together with aesthetic rhinoplasty, septoplasty doesn't change the outer appearance of the nose; it only corrects the internal deviation.
Is a deviated septum present from birth?
In some cases it's present from birth, in others it develops during growth or after trauma. Regardless of the cause, the treatment approach is similar.