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Deviated Septum

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A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall dividing the nasal passages—the nasal septum—is shifted to one side, making one nasal airway smaller than the other. While some people have mild deviations with no symptoms, others experience nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, and frequent sinus infections. In some cases, a deviated septum can also contribute to snoring and sleep disturbances.

What Causes a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum can develop for a number of reasons. Here are some common causes that I see frequently in my clinics:

  • Congenital (Present at Birth): Some people are born with a deviated septum due to how the nose develops in the womb or as they develop their septum deviates and becomes an issue in their teenage years.
  • Trauma or Injury: A blow to the nose—whether from contact sports, falls, or accidents—can shift the septum out of alignment. Car accidents, particularly those involving facial trauma, are a common cause of significant septal deviation.
  • Cocaine Use: Snorting cocaine can severely damage the nasal septum over time. Cocaine restricts blood flow to nasal tissues, leading to tissue weakening and necrosis. Chronic use can cause septal perforation, where a hole forms in the septum, further compromising nasal function.

Diagnosis

To determine whether a deviated septum is contributing to your symptoms, I conduct a thorough evaluation that includes:

  • Medical History: Understanding your symptoms—such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or snoring—helps pinpoint the severity of the deviation. I will also speak to you about your lifestyle and if your nose has ever experienced trauma 
  • Physical Examination and Endoscopy: In my clinic, I use a nasal endoscope to examine the nasal passages and assess the degree of septal deviation. Many patients find it helpful to see real-time images of their nasal anatomy on the screen.
  • CT Scan: If chronic sinus infections or structural abnormalities are suspected, a CT scan may be recommended to provide detailed imaging.
Deviated septum

The Benefits of Seeing an ENT Specialist with Facial Plastic Surgery Expertise

As both an ENT specialist and a facial plastic surgeon, I offer a unique approach to treating deviated septums. This combined expertise ensures that patients receive both functional and aesthetic benefits from treatment:

  • Precision in Structural Corrections: Whether correcting a deviated septum or addressing nasal valve collapse, my approach prioritises both structural integrity of the nose, airway function and facial harmony.
  • Expertise in Rhinoplasty: For patients requiring surgical intervention, I offer advanced techniques that can address any cosmetic concerns my patients have
  • Comprehensive Understanding of Facial Anatomy: As an ENT surgeon with advanced facial plastics qualifications, I can provide nasal treatments that solve health issues while also avoiding unintended changes to appearance.
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques: Where possible, I use refined, minimally invasive procedures to reduce recovery time and optimise results.
9 Harley Street

Treatment Options

Treatment Options

Once I have identified the cause, tailored treatment options can be explored:

  • Medications: Corticosteroid nasal sprays help reduce inflammation, while decongestant sprays provide temporary relief. Antihistamines or antibiotics (for infections) can be prescribed. This helps the patient while they consider if surgery is the best option for them in the long term
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Managing allergens, using saline nasal rinses, and avoiding irritants like smoke can help control symptoms. If a person is a cocaine user it is essential that they stop taking drugs before I perform any surgical procedures
  • Surgical Intervention (Septoplasty): If medical treatments are ineffective, septoplasty—a procedure to straighten the nasal septum—may be recommended. This surgery improves airflow and can significantly enhance breathing and quality of life.
  • Rhinoplasty: For patients with any cosmetic concerns, rhinoplasty can be perfomed at the same time which focuses on the exterior appearance of the nose.

My goal is to provide patients with clear answers and effective solutions, ensuring they can breathe comfortably and manage their symptoms effectively. Click here to make an enquiry.