Septoplasty in Singapore
- Septoplasty is a surgical procedure used as part of deviated nasal septum treatment to address structural deviation within the nose that may contribute to ongoing nasal blockage or breathing difficulty.
- Patients may be evaluated for nasal deviation surgery if symptoms persist despite conservative management, following assessment by an ENT specialist based on clinical findings and symptom history.
- This page provides an overview of how septoplasty is assessed, how the procedure is generally performed, potential risks and considerations, and what recovery may involve.
- Information is shared for educational purposes to support informed discussions between patients and their ENT doctor, without making assumptions about suitability or outcomes.
What Is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviation of the nasal septum. The nasal septum is the internal structure made of cartilage and bone that separates the left and right sides of the nasal cavity.
When the septum is deviated, meaning it is bent or displaced to one side, it can narrow one or both nasal passages. This may contribute to symptoms such as persistent nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through the nose, or recurrent nasal congestion.
As part of deviated nasal septum treatment, septoplasty involves repositioning or reshaping the septum to improve airflow within the nasal passages. The procedure focuses on correcting structural alignment rather than addressing inflammation or allergy-related causes. Suitability for surgery is determined following assessment by an ENT specialist, based on symptoms, examination findings, and overall nasal anatomy.
When is Septoplasty Surgery Considered?
Severe Nasal Obstruction
A deviated nasal septum may narrow one or both nasal passages, leading to persistent airflow limitation. Some individuals experience ongoing nasal blockage that does not improve with medical management, such as nasal sprays or allergy treatment.
In these situations, septoplasty may be considered to address the structural cause of obstruction. Evaluation focuses on whether the septal deviation is contributing significantly to symptoms, based on clinical examination and individual nasal anatomy.
Recurrent Nosebleeds
Some individuals with a deviated nasal septum experience recurrent nosebleeds (Epistaxis) due to uneven airflow within the nasal passages. When airflow becomes unbalanced, certain areas of the nasal lining may dry out more easily, increasing susceptibility to irritation and bleeding.
In cases where nosebleeds are frequent, persistent, or do not respond to conservative measures, assessment by an ENT specialist may help determine whether structural factors within the nose are contributing to the problem.
Chronic Sinusitis
A septal perforation refers to an opening in the nasal septum, which may develop due to previous nasal surgery, trauma, infection, or other underlying causes. In some cases, altered airflow and disruption of normal nasal function may contribute to ongoing nasal irritation or recurrent sinus symptoms.
Where individuals experience repeated sinus infections or persistent symptoms consistent with sinusitis, further assessment may be required to determine whether septal perforation and drainage issues are contributing factors. Evaluation focuses on nasal anatomy, symptom pattern, and findings on examination, with management options discussed based on individual clinical needs.
Chronic Mouth Breathing
Chronic mouth breathing may occur when nasal airflow is persistently restricted. In individuals with a deviated nasal septum, reduced airflow through one or both nasal passages can make nasal breathing difficult, particularly during sleep or physical activity.
When mouth breathing is ongoing and does not improve with conservative measures, assessment by an ENT specialist may help determine whether structural nasal factors are contributing to the problem and whether further evaluation is appropriate.
What Are the Advantages of Having Septoplasty?
The potential benefits of septoplasty vary from person to person and depend on individual anatomy, symptom severity, and overall nasal health. The procedure is considered when structural deviation of the nasal septum is identified as a contributing factor to ongoing symptoms.
• Improved Nasal Breathing
By addressing septal deviation, septoplasty may help improve airflow through the nasal passages. This can make nasal breathing easier for individuals who experience persistent blockage that has not responded to non-surgical management.
• Restored Sense of Smell or Nasal Comfort
In some cases, improved nasal airflow may support better nasal function, which can be associated with changes in smell perception or reduced nasal congestion. Outcomes depend on underlying causes and are assessed individually.
• Improved Sleep Quality
Nasal obstruction can affect breathing patterns during sleep. For some individuals, addressing structural blockage may help reduce sleep disruption related to nasal airflow limitation. Septoplasty may be considered as part of a broader evaluation for sleep-related breathing concerns, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where appropriate.
• Reduced Frequency of Certain Nasal Symptoms
For selected patients, correcting septal deviation may be associated with fewer episodes of nasal blockage, recurrent nosebleeds, or sinus-related symptoms. These effects are not guaranteed and depend on whether septal deviation is a primary contributing factor.
An ENT specialist will assess whether septoplasty is appropriate based on symptoms, examination findings, and overall clinical context. The procedure is discussed as part of an individualised management plan rather than as a standalone solution.
Step-By-Step Septoplasty Procedure
Septoplasty is usually performed through incisions inside the nose, so there are no external cuts on the skin. The exact technique may differ based on each person’s nasal anatomy, but in general, the procedure can be broken down into the following steps:
Anaesthesia Administration
Anaesthesia is given to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Depending on the clinical situation, this may involve local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. Your doctor and anaesthetist will discuss the most appropriate option for you.
Surgical Access
A small incision is made inside the nose to lift the lining that covers the nasal septum.
This allows the surgeon to see and reach the cartilage and bone that are deviated, without making any cuts on the outside of the nose.
Septal Correction
The deviated portions of cartilage and/or bone are carefully adjusted.
This may involve straightening, repositioning, or removing selected segments to improve the alignment of the septum while maintaining structural support.
Tissue Realignment
Once the septum has been corrected, the lining over the septum is repositioned.
In some cases, soft tissue support or internal splints may be used to help keep the septum in its new position during the early healing phase.
Procedure Completion
The internal incision is closed, and any supporting materials (such as splints or soft nasal packing, if used) are placed according to the surgeon’s preference. Patients are then monitored in the recovery area while they wake up from anaesthesia before going home or staying for observation, depending on the clinical plan.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Septoplasty?
Postoperative visits are routinely scheduled every 7-14 days until the nose is healing well, and then less frequently. Flexible nasoendoscopy and cleaning will be performed at each postoperative visit. Patients will need to take prescribed medications and irrigate their nose with salt water at least 3-4 times per day. The nose may initially feel more blocked immediately due to swelling after surgery, but this will continue to improve over the next 3-4 weeks as the lining of the nose heals. Patients are able to go back to regular office work in 1-2 weeks’ time, and complete healing and recovery is expected in 6-8 weeks.
What Are The Complications of Septoplasty? What are the Risks and Alternatives?
In general the complications and risks of this procedure are minimal. Nevertheless, each patient should be aware of the potential complications.
Bleeding
Bleeding is a possibility in any nasal or sinus surgery as the blood supply is extensive. Occasionally significant bleeding may occur requiring termination of the procedure and nasal packing. This usually requires hospitalization for observation. Blood transfusions are rare, as is the need for subsequent surgery to control bleeding. However, certain precautions are necessary, such as the avoidance of all certain painkillers as well as supplements such as garlic, ginseng, and gingko for a period of 2 weeks before surgery. Patients on long-term blood thinning agents can still undergo surgery though their medication regime or type may need to be temporarily altered.
Failure to Cure the Problem
A deviated nasal septum may not be completely cured by this procedure. The nasal septum is made up of bone and cartilage. Cartilage, in particular, has a very strong memory and it is sometimes impossible to completely straighten the cartilage. As a result, cartilage grafts may be used.
Postoperative Discharge
Postsurgical blood-tinged drainage or clots may occur for up to two weeks after surgery. This is not abnormal and will clear. Blowing of the nose should not be attempted for at least three weeks after surgery.
Risk of Anaesthesia
Although this procedure may be performed under local anesthesia, our preference is for general anesthesia. Although usually safe, general anesthesia has some risks and complications. We can put you in touch with our anaesthesists to discuss this issue further if necessary.
Nasal Collapse (Saddle nose)
The nasal septum supports the external framework of the nose. When cartilage and/or bone is removed from the deviated nasal septum, it can sometimes weaken the support, leading to a saddle nose. Research has shown that certain areas of the nasal septum must be retained to support the external framework. We are highly cognizant of this and do our best to preserve these areas in every case. Saddle nose is thus fortunately extremely rare in this day and age. If such a complication should occur, there are still options for surgical correction.
Other Risks
Patients may note some temporary numbness or discomfort in the front and upper teeth. Swelling over the nose/face, bruising, “black eyes”, and lip numbness may also occur, but usually resolve in one to two weeks. Air may also collect under the skin around the eye postoperatively which rapidly resolves. Symptoms may return or in some cases worsen such as sinus pain or discomfort, increased nasal obstruction or discharge. Smell may be decreased or absent after surgery, but this is rare. Scarring may occur in the nose, but usually does not cause a problem on occasion the scarring may need to be removed via a separate procedure.
Alternatives to Surgery
This procedure is the treatment of choice for a deviated nasal septum. A deviated nasal septum is an anatomical problem, which cannot be cured with medication. If unsuccessful, you may choose to tolerate the symptoms rather than have surgery.
Does Septoplasty Change Your Nose Shape? What Is The Difference Between Septoplasty And Rhinoplasty?
In general, a simple nasal septoplasty does not change your nose shape. However, if complications such as saddle nose develop, it may lead to a
visible change in your nose shape. However, this can also be corrected with surgery.
The main aim of septoplasty is to correct the deviated nasal septum and internal nose issues. This is different from rhinoplasty, which can correct both internal and external nose issues, with the option for cosmetic changes.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
• Immediate Post-Operative Care
Pain Management: Some discomfort or pressure in the nose is expected in the first few days. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage pain. Keeping the head elevated, including during sleep, can help reduce swelling. Cold compresses applied to the cheeks may provide additional comfort.
Activity Restrictions: For safety and to protect the healing tissues, strenuous activities, bending, heavy lifting, and contact sports should be avoided during the early recovery period. Your doctor will advise when it is appropriate to gradually resume normal activities.
• Recovery Process
Initial Phase: During the first one to two weeks, swelling and nasal congestion are common. Breathing may feel different as the internal tissues heal. If internal supports or packing are used, they are removed during follow-up visits. Your surgeon will provide guidance on appropriate nasal care during this period.
Long-Term Recovery: Healing continues over the following months as swelling gradually settles and the nasal structures stabilise. Follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to monitor recovery and address any concerns. The overall recovery timeline varies among individuals.
Meet Dr Leslie Koh
Pediatric Otolaryngology, Pediatric ENT Surgeon
Dr Leslie Koh is an ENT specialist in Singapore whose clinical practice focuses on the assessment and management of ear, nose, and throat conditions in both adults and children. His work includes the evaluation of nasal obstruction, septal deviation, and other structural nasal concerns that may affect breathing.
Dr Koh completed his medical training in Singapore and underwent specialist training in otolaryngology. He has experience in hospital-based ENT practice and continues to participate in ongoing professional development as part of Singapore’s medical community.
Clinical Approach to Pediatric ENT Care
Dr Koh’s clinical approach emphasises careful assessment, clear explanation, and shared decision-making.
- Structured evaluation of symptoms and nasal anatomy
- Use of appropriate diagnostic examinations to guide discussion
- Clear explanation of findings and available management options
- Consideration of both non-surgical and surgical approaches based on individual needs
Patients considering septoplasty or other forms of nasal deviation surgery are assessed based on clinical findings rather than symptoms alone, with suitability discussed during consultation.
FAQs about Septoplasty in Singapore
How Much Does Septoplasty Cost in Singapore?
The cost of septoplasty can vary depending on factors such as the extent of septal deviation, whether additional procedures are required, hospital or day surgery fees, and anaesthesia charges. During consultation at an ENT clinic in Singapore, cost considerations, as well as billing and insurance arrangements, are usually discussed so patients have clarity before proceeding.
What Happens If a Deviated Septum Is Left Untreated?
A deviated nasal septum does not always require treatment. In some individuals, it may cause minimal or no symptoms. In others, persistent nasal blockage, recurrent nosebleeds, or sinus-related symptoms may occur over time. Assessment by an ENT specialist helps determine whether observation, medical management, or surgical options should be considered based on individual findings.
Is Septoplasty Performed for Children?
Septoplasty is less commonly performed in children and is usually considered only in selected situations. When required, evaluation is typically carried out carefully, sometimes involving a pediatric ENT surgeon, to ensure timing and indications are appropriate for the child’s nasal development and symptoms.
How Is Septoplasty Diagnosed Before Surgery?
Septoplasty is considered only after a detailed assessment by an ENT specialist. Diagnosis usually involves a review of symptoms, physical examination of the nose, and, where appropriate, nasal endoscopy or imaging to assess septal alignment and airflow.
Is Septoplasty a Cosmetic Procedure?
Septoplasty is performed to address functional issues related to a deviated nasal septum, such as nasal obstruction or breathing difficulty. It does not aim to change the external appearance of the nose. If cosmetic concerns are present, these are discussed separately.
What Is the Recovery Process Like After Septoplasty?
Recovery varies between individuals. Most patients experience temporary nasal congestion, swelling, or mild discomfort in the early postoperative period. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns during recovery.
Disclaimer
This page is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personal medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.