Septoplasty Recovery - Time, Tips, How Long?

The recovery time for septoplasty (straightening the midwall partition of the nose) is quicker than rhinoplasty (full nose job). Most surgeons use silicon based stents (internal splints) for about one week following the surgery. The splints usually have a tunnel, enabling the patient to still breath through them during this recovery phase. Most of the pain and discomfort is reported during the first week while the splints are sutured inside the nose. Many surgeons prescribe an oral antibiotic and a low grade narcotic pain medication for the first week. Patients can maintain their regular diet following the surgery. However, they are instructed to avoid any medications or supplements that could have potential blood thinning effects. During this week patients are at risk for nosebleeds (albeit low) and thus instructed to avoid strenuous activity too. Following the removal of the splints patients are instructed on local wound care with saline washes +/- ointment at the nostril edges. Most patients will resume their work and regular activity in the second week. There is usually minimal pain at this phase but some numbness of upper lip and palate and discomfort with facial movement might be experienced. It will take about two to three months for the general wound contraction and resorption of absorbable sutures to occur, by then the result is mostly considered final.

The recovery for septoplasty is less time than for rhinoplasty.  Our patients find that the first week has the most discomfort after septoplasty only because of packing with stents to keep the airway open and keep things stable while you're healing.  Once the stents come out (usually in 7 days), you're feeling much better and take a nice breath of fresh air.  Within a few weeks, you should be feeling good, with your swelling at a minimum.  In two to three months you should be healed.  With Rhinoplasty it can take much longer for the swelling to completely subside (6 months to a year).  Be well!

HI septoplasty is the inner airway procedure to remove deviated cartilage.  It is a very different procedure than a rhinoplasty that changes the bones and cartilage to give the nose a different shape.For septoplasty we have you relax for about 10 days.  For rhinoplasty surgery the recovery is similar but can take a little bit longer due to the swelling.  I suggest visiting a board certified plastic surgeon who performs these procedures or a ENT physician that has additional training called "facial plastic surgery" to help figure out exactly what you need.Best Wishes!!

Recovering from a septoplasty is not as terrible as you might thing. The first 48-72hrs you can expect some dull pain and you may have a headache. The biggest thing you can do during that time is head elevation, rest and ice. Most patients can switch to tylenol at that point and get back to work. 
Most patients will have some bruising and swelling, but not as much as a rhinoplasty patient. The head elevation and ice help with this. 
Nasal congestion is normal after septoplasty since the nasal mucosa is inflamed. This can take 2-6 weeks to improve. 
You can do light activity but I don't want patients to do heavy exercise for 6 weeks. 

Septoplasty alone is an easier, quicker recovery than the rhinoplasty. Septoplasty alone includes removal of the angled portion of the septum (bone and cartilage) and repositing the septum in the midline. 
Post-op, there will be an internal silicone splint stabilizing the septum for about 10 days. The splint has a tube that extends from inside the nostril to the posterior aspect of the nose so you can breathe easily.
A rhinoplasty will include a septoplasty as well. There is a lot more internal procedures done at the same time and the recovery is longer for the swelling to subside. 
Downtime for a septoplasty is minimal, no increased exertion for 7-10 days; pain should be well controlled with moderate pain meds and then Tylenol for a couple of days. 

Hello Ivan and thanks for your question.
Septoplasty can cause some discomfort. However, it responds nicely to pain meds. We use a soft splint which speeds up recovery.Most pateints are very pleased with the improvement in the breathing.Please note that a number of factors can lead to breathing difficulty through the nose.Given that the nose and nasal breathing passages are three dimensional structures, a complete examination is needed to determine the diagnosis and the exact reason for breathing difficulty. In our office we used a headlight and other instrument to come up with the exact cause for this issue.  
The following are the 3 main reason for mouth breathing and difficulty breathing through the nose:
1. Septal deviation
2. Turbinate enlargement
3. Nasal Valve collapse
4. Major allergic rhinitis
5. Any combination of the above.
For patients who are searching for answer regarding above or septoplasty, I would highly recommend visiting a few plastic surgeons who specialize in this exacting and artistic procedure. In our office we provide patients with a personalized, individualized and complementary consultation to address these similar issues.

For more information and many before and after examples please see the link below.
Best wishes and good luck.
Dr. Sajjadian