A deviated septum can cause breathing difficulties, snoring and nose bleeds
A deviated septum is very common and does not usually cause any symptoms and therefore does not require treatment
The partition wall which divides the nasal cavity in two is called the nasal septum. A deviated septum is when the bone and/or the cartilage of the septum is off-centre or crooked. This can occur during childhood development or as a result of an injury to the nose or face. A deviated septum is extremely common and most people will not be aware of it or need treatment.
Some of the symptoms can be improved with medication such as topical nasal steroids. Surgery may be recommended in more severe cases to reposition the septum.
This operation is called a Septoplasty. It usually takes about thirty minutes and is performed as a day case procedure under general anaesthetic. A nasal dressing is rarely required after surgery.
