A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall of bone and cartilage that separates the nasal passages is displaced to one side. This common condition can affect both the appearance of the nose and the ability to breathe comfortably through the nasal passages. While some individuals experience only minor symptoms, others may struggle with chronic congestion, recurring sinus issues, sleep disturbances, and difficulty breathing through the nose.
Patients throughout Atlanta and Sandy Springs trust Dr. Brian Maloney for the treatment of deviated septums because of his extensive expertise in both functional and cosmetic nasal surgery. Dr. Maloney is dual board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology and has authored textbook chapters on rhinoplasty while teaching advanced nasal surgery techniques internationally. His experience allows him to improve both nasal function and facial balance when developing individualized treatment plans.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
The septum is the internal wall that separates the left and right nasal passages. When the septum shifts away from the center of the nose, airflow can become restricted on one or both sides. A deviated septum may be present at birth, develop during facial growth, or result from trauma or injury to the nose.
In some cases, a deviated septum causes only mild symptoms. However, more significant deviations can contribute to chronic breathing difficulties and may also affect the nose’s overall symmetry. Many patients seek treatment to improve both nasal function and appearance.
View before and after photographs.
Symptoms of a deviated septum include:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose: When one side of your nose is obstructed, breathing becomes difficult period. Many patients begin breathing primarily through their mouth.
- Nasal congestion: Congestion can lead to ear infections or chronic coughing causing patients to rely on decongestants and other medication.
- Recurrent sinus infections: If the nasal passages are blocked, they will not drain properly and will most likely cause a backup of liquid leading to a sinus infection. Open airways will help to prevent frequent infection.
- Nosebleeds: Because the tissue over the septum is so thin, it can become inflamed due to nose blowing or dryness.
- Sleep problems, loud snoring or sleep apnea: Blocked airways cause patients to become “mouth breathers” which quickly leads to snoring. The membranes of the throat become dry and create loud sounds both inhaling and exhaling.
- Headache postnasal drip: A deviated septum causes fluid to back up in the nasal cavity which causes pressure. The pressure will continue to build causing a headache. Postnasal drip is the result of minimal amounts of fluid leaking from the blockage. The treatment for this type of problem is to not only bring the nose back to the center of the face but to also bring the septum back in line creating a symmetrical appearance and opening up the nasal airway. There are often other problems that may be present such as a large dorsal hump on the top of the nose as well as distortion around the tip of the nose.
How Is a Deviated Septum Treated?
When symptoms are significant, surgery is often the most effective solution. Septoplasty is a procedure designed to straighten the septum and improve airflow through the nasal passages. During surgery, Dr. Maloney works through incisions placed inside the nose to reposition or remove portions of bone and cartilage that are obstructing airflow.
For patients with cosmetic concerns in addition to breathing problems, septoplasty may be combined with rhinoplasty to improve both nasal function and appearance during a single procedure. Dr. Maloney utilizes advanced evaluation techniques, including computer imaging when appropriate, to help patients understand their treatment options and develop realistic expectations regarding their results.
Why Choose Maloney Center for facial plastic surgery for Deviated Septum Treatment?
Treating a deviated septum requires expertise in both nasal function and facial anatomy. At Maloney Center for facial plastic surgery, patients receive care from Dr. Brian Maloney, a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing functional and cosmetic nasal surgery. His goal is to improve airflow and breathing while preserving or enhancing the overall appearance of the nose whenever appropriate.
Dr. Maloney maintains dual board certification from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. His advanced training and experience enable him to address complex nasal concerns that involve both internal structures and external appearance. Patients throughout Atlanta and Sandy Springs choose Maloney Center for facial plastic surgery for individualized treatment plans, advanced surgical expertise, and comprehensive care focused on long-term results.
Improve Breathing and Comfort in Atlanta, GA
A deviated septum can affect more than just the appearance of the nose. It can interfere with breathing, sleep quality, and overall comfort throughout the day. With proper evaluation and treatment, many patients experience significant improvements in both nasal function and quality of life.
To learn more about deviated septum treatment and your options for improving nasal airflow, schedule a consultation by calling 470.207.1367.
