How Breathing Quality Improves After Deviated Septum Surgery (Septoplasty)

The nasal septum is a thin structure made of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils and regulates airflow. When this structure is curved or displaced — a condition known as deviation — a person may experience breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, headaches, and sleep problems.
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects this curvature, opens the airway, and restores normal nasal function.

So, how does breathing quality improve after surgery? What steps should be followed? Here’s a day-by-day recovery guide 👇

Days 1–3: Early Stage – Careful Recovery Begins
 

Septoplasty surgery typically lasts 30–60 minutes, and most patients can be discharged on the same day.
During the first 24–48 hours after surgery, nasal congestion, mild pain, and discharge may occur. This is completely normal since the internal nasal tissues are swollen.

Nasal tampons (or silicone splints) are usually removed after 2–3 days. Once they’re removed, patients can breathe more comfortably for the first time.
During this stage, it’s important to:

• Avoid blowing your nose
• Avoid lying face down
• Eat warm and soft foods
• Use saline sprays to keep the nose moist

Thanks to advanced surgical techniques and modern clinical facilities, Turkey attracts many patients from Europe for septoplasty operations. Especially ENT centers in Istanbul and Izmir offer minimally invasive approaches that ensure faster recovery.

Weeks 1–2: Breathing Begins to Improve
 

From the first week onward, swelling starts to subside, and breathing quality visibly improves.
To prevent dryness inside the nose, use seawater sprays and doctor-prescribed moisturizing drops regularly.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and dusty environments, as they can slow down recovery.

When cleaning your nose, use soft tissues instead of cotton swabs. Gently wipe the outside of the nose without pressing inside.

Weeks 3–4: Return of Normal Breathing
 

By the third week, patients can generally breathe almost normally.
The nasal mucosa fully regenerates, and most of the swelling subsides.
Avoid sports or heavy exercise at this stage, as increased blood pressure could cause nosebleeds.

During follow-up visits, the doctor examines the nasal passages and evaluates healing progress.
Most patients notice significant improvement in both smell and breathing functions by the fourth week.

Months 1–3: Long-Term Breathing Quality
 

By the end of the first three months, the internal nasal structures are completely healed.
At this stage, patients often report that they can “breathe deeply for the first time in years.”
Sleep quality improves, snoring decreases, and morning fatigue disappears.

This change brings not only physical but also psychological relief.
Proper breathing after septoplasty increases oxygen intake and boosts overall energy levels.

The best long-term results after septoplasty depend not only on surgical success but also on consistent nasal care. Following your doctor’s recommended spray and care routine helps maintain lasting breathing quality.

🩺 Wupdoc Recommendation
 

When researching septoplasty or other ENT surgeries, you can look into these treatment terms:
septoplasty, functional rhinoplasty, endoscopic nasal surgery, sinus surgery, ENT treatments.
Through Wupdoc, you can compare clinics specialized in these areas, read patient reviews, and request a free consultation.

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