If you’re experiencing frequent nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or interrupted sleep due to a blocked airway, you may be dealing with a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates. Septoplasty and turbinate reduction are surgical procedures designed to restore clear airflow and improve your quality of life. We’ll guide you through every step of the process with thoughtful, personalized care.
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects a deviated septum—when the cartilage and bone inside your nose are off-center, blocking airflow. During the procedure, the nasal lining (mucosa) is gently lifted, the underlying bone and cartilage are reshaped and straightened, and the lining is repositioned to allow for better breathing. If turbinate enlargement is also contributing to your symptoms, it may be addressed at the same time.
Turbinates are small structures inside your nose that help warm, humidify, and filter the air you breathe. When these tissues—especially the inferior turbinates—become swollen or enlarged, they can significantly block nasal airflow. Common causes of turbinate enlargement include chronic allergies, frequent sinus infections, or structural narrowing of the nasal passages. Turbinate surgery (turbinate reduction) may be recommended alongside septoplasty for more complete relief.
Your evaluation may include a nasal examination and discussion of your symptoms, along with an in-office CT scan or nasal endoscopy to assess your anatomy and pinpoint the cause of obstruction.
Septoplasty and turbinate reduction may be right for you if:
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your breathing concerns and review your imaging results. If surgery is recommended, it is typically performed at an outpatient surgical center under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and you will be monitored in recovery and sent home the same day.
Fatigue is common for a few days after surgery. Nasal stuffiness from swelling usually improves after the first week, and some mild drainage (including mucus or blood) is normal during healing. Most patients experience only mild discomfort, which is easily managed with oral medication. You may be advised to use saline sprays or irrigation to keep the nasal passages moist and support healing.
We understand how frustrating it can be to live with ongoing nasal congestion or blocked breathing. Whether your goal is to sleep better, breathe more freely, or simply feel like yourself again, we’re here to provide expert care with comfort and clarity every step of the way.
I first came to Dr Paciorek for my eyes. I noticed my lids were almost non existent. He took the time to explain and show me first hand pictures of what they would look like after surgery. Dr Paciorek spent extensive time with me explaining how the procedure would go. On my day of surgery, he took time to go over everything. I was very much at ease with what to expect. After surgery, my healing time was minimal and results were more than what I expected.
— Real Patient
Septoplasty is focused on internal structures, and cosmetic appearance is typically unchanged.
Most patients report mild discomfort during recovery, which is well managed with medication.
Many people return within a few days to a week, depending on the extent of surgery.
Usually yes, but we’ll walk you through all your options.
If your snoring is related to nasal obstruction, this procedure may offer significant relief.