Nasal Breathing

Septoplasty in Istanbul

Septoplasty corrects a deviated nasal septum to improve airflow through the nose. It may be performed alone or combined with rhinoplasty when both breathing and shape are being addressed.

Educational clinic guide · Last updated 2026-08-31 · General education only. Not diagnosis, treatment advice, or a decision about surgical candidacy.

What the septum does

The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone dividing the two nasal passages. If it is significantly deviated, it can narrow airflow, contribute to congestion, or worsen breathing on one or both sides.

Symptoms and evaluation

Symptoms may include blocked nasal breathing, mouth breathing, poor sleep, recurrent congestion, or difficulty during exercise. Evaluation may include nasal examination and discussion of allergies, trauma, prior surgery, and turbinate size.

Surgery and recovery

Septoplasty reshapes or repositions deviated septal structures while preserving support. Internal splints may be used temporarily. Congestion is common early and improves as swelling settles.

Combination with rhinoplasty

If external nasal shape, nasal valve support, or the bridge/tip also need correction, septoplasty may be part of septorhinoplasty rather than a standalone operation.

Risks and limitations

Risks include bleeding, infection, septal perforation, persistent obstruction, change in nasal shape, numbness, crusting, reduced smell, and need for additional surgery.

This page is informational. It cannot determine whether surgery or another treatment is appropriate for an individual. A final plan requires examination and direct clinical consultation.

Common questions

Does septoplasty change the outside of the nose?

Septoplasty mainly treats the internal septum. External changes usually require septorhinoplasty.

Can septoplasty cure all congestion?

No. Allergies, turbinate enlargement, sinus disease, and valve weakness may also affect airflow.

Is this page medical advice?

No. It is general educational information. Suitability, technique, recovery, risks, and cost require direct clinical consultation.

Can the consultation be online first?

An initial online consultation may be possible. International patients often begin by sharing photos and goals with the clinic team before travelling to Istanbul.

Can function and appearance be treated together?

In many nasal procedures, breathing and appearance are evaluated together. The final plan depends on anatomy and examination.

Medical sources

  1. Cleveland Clinic - Septoplasty
  2. NCBI Bookshelf - Septoplasty
  3. ENT Health - Nose and Sinus