The Septum

• The septum is a thin wall in the nose that separates the left and right nasal cavity. Ideally, it is perfectly centered, separating each side equally. A deviated septum is off to one side.
  
  

The Procedure

• During a septoplasty, the nose is cut open and the septum is repositioned. This can sometimes require the surgeon to remove parts of the septum before aligning it.
  
  

After the Procedure

• A septoplasty is a same-day surgery. In most cases, the surgeon will pack the nose with cotton material to prevent nosebleeds. It is usually removed 24 to 36 hours after the surgery.
  
  

Complications

• Possible complications include skin discoloration, scarring, uneven nose appearance, excessive bleeding and fluid buildup in the nose. In some cases, the septum resets itself and requires additional surgery.
  
  

Prognosis

• A septoplasty can often completely cure nasal obstructions and nosebleeds. However it cannot cure sinus conditions such as nasal congestion or allergies. These will still need to be managed with medication.