Deviated Septum Doctor
in Houston, TX

A deviated septum can cause chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, frequent sinus infections, snoring, and even headaches, impacting daily life and overall health. Many patients seek treatment to restore clear airflow, improve sleep quality, and reduce the risk of ongoing sinus problems. At Texas Sinus & Snoring, our specialized approach addresses both functional and comfort concerns, offering personalized solutions to help patients breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.

Table of Contents

What Is a Deviated
Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the septum – the structure inside your nose made of bone and cartilage – is not straight. Your septum divides the two sides of the nose into the left and right sides. If it isn’t straight, it can prohibit air from reaching the back of your nose and make it difficult to breathe.

If you think you might have a deviated septum, a consultation is the best way to find out. You can always call us, or click the button below, and we’ll reach out to you.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

Nasal Observation

When your septum leans to one side, it may cause that nostril to feel obstructed or blocked. Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can make the blocked nostrils feel worse. These conditions cause the membranes in your nose to swell, making your nasal passages even narrower. Nasal obstruction and/or recurrent sinus infections can be a sign that you have a crooked septum.

Snoring

A deviated septum might not be the only cause of your snoring issues, but it can be a factor. Think of it like pinching the end of a balloon as you let air out; it makes a squealing sound. A crooked septum narrows your airway, which can cause noise when you breathe.

Nosebleeds

When the surface of your septum becomes dry, you can experience nosebleeds.

Facial Pain

In some cases, patients experience facial pain or sinus headache. This is largely due to the narrowed passageway and additional symptoms, such as swelling.

Sleeping Only on One Side

If you notice that sleeping on a certain side makes it harder to breathe, you may have a deviated septum.

Nasal Congestion

Because a deviated septum your nasal passageway on one side, it can often feel like that side of your nose is always congested.

Recurrent Sinus Infections

Also known as sinusitis, recurring sinus infections can be a sign of a deviated septum.

What Causes a Deviated
Septum

Genetics- Development at birth can cause a deviated septum.
Injury to the Nose- This can happen during birth, rough play, sports, or a car accident. The injury does not have to be severe to cause the septum to become unaligned.
Aging - As we age, our cells degrade. Aging can cause a slightly deviated septum to become worse over time.
Rhinitis - Swelling of the nasal cavities can further narrow the nasal passage, worsening a deviated septum.

How to Know if You Have a
Deviated Septum

The only way to know if a deviated septum is the cause of your sinus issues is with a CT scan. At Texas Sinus and Snoring, we believe in comprehensive care. So when you come in for your first appointment, we can do your CT scan and scope (if needed), right in our office. This usually means you’ll receive a diagnosis right there, and we can work with you on a treatment plan.

How to Fix a Deviated Septum

Septoplasty

septoplasty is a simple 15-minute procedure done under twilight anesthesia. It’s performed through a nostril, usually with no significant, visible external changes to the shape of the nose. Ninety-five percent of the time, we do not put packing in the nose and do not use the infamous nasal splints that need to be removed in the clinic later. This makes the once-painful procedure much more tolerable, with minimal downtime.

A crooked septum can lead to recurrent sinus infections, nasal congestion, nasal obstruction, nasal drainage, difficulty tolerating a CPAP machine, snoring, recurrent nasal bleeds, and even chronic headaches. A septoplasty straightens and corrects the position of the septum to allow for adequate airflow through the nostrils.

Balloon Septoplasty

Balloon septoplasty, not to be confused with balloon sinuplasty, is often advertised as a solution for a deviated septum. Since a correction of the cartilage and bone is necessary to fix a deviated septum, a balloon septoplasty will not work as a permanent solution. A deviated septum is a surgical nasal problem, not a sinus problem. The best way to correct a crooked septum is with a septoplasty procedure.

Deviated Septum Surgery: Step-by-Step

Anesthesia

Septoplasty is typically performed under twilight anesthesia. This ensures the patient remains comfortable and pain-free during the procedure, allowing our surgeon to work with precision on delicate nasal structures.

Incisions

Our surgeon makes a small incision inside one nostril, lifting the mucosal tissue that covers the septum. This step exposes the underlying cartilage and bone, allowing for careful correction of the septal deviation while protecting the lining of the nose, which is critical for proper healing.

Reshaping the Septum

Once the mucosal tissue is lifted, our surgeon identifies areas where the septum is deviated or obstructing airflow. Any obstructing portions of bone or cartilage may be removed or repositioned. If needed, cartilage grafts are used to reinforce weak areas or fill gaps, ensuring a stable, straight septum.

Support Structures

In some cases, spreader grafts are placed to widen the internal nasal valve and maintain an open airway. These thin strips of cartilage help preserve structural integrity while improving airflow through the nasal passages.

Closure

After the septum is corrected, the mucosal tissue is carefully repositioned over the septum. The incision is closed with absorbable sutures, eliminating the need for external stitches. This internal approach ensures minimal disruption to the nose’s external appearance.

Recovery After Deviated Septum Surgery

First 24 Hours

After this outpatient surgery, patients can return home the same day. During the first 24 hours, it’s common to experience mild swelling, some discomfort, and minor bleeding. Pain is usually managed with prescribed medications, and patients are encouraged to rest with their head elevated. Avoiding strenuous activity is important during this initial phase.

Week 1

In the first week, most patients notice a gradual improvement in breathing and a reduction in discomfort. If nasal packing was used during the procedure, it is typically removed within the first couple of days. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes may persist but should steadily decrease. Light activities are allowed, but heavy exercise should still be avoided.

Weeks 2–3

By the second and third weeks, mild swelling may still be present, but nasal airflow continues to improve. Scabs inside the nose begin to fall off naturally, and any residual bruising usually fades. Patients can resume most normal activities, but should continue to avoid contact sports or situations that could risk trauma to the nose.

Weeks 4+

Over the next few weeks, internal healing continues, and the septum stabilizes in its corrected position. Patients may still experience occasional congestion or dryness, which is normal. Following recovery tips, such as saline sprays, avoiding forcefully blowing the nose, and keeping the head elevated during sleep, can support a smoother healing process.

Candidates for Deviated Septum Treatment

Deviated septum treatment is appropriate for patients whose nasal structure significantly affects breathing or quality of life.

Individuals experiencing severe nasal airway obstruction that interferes with daily activities are often considered strong candidates.
Patients who suffer from sleep disturbances or sleep apnea related to a narrowed nasal passage may also benefit from septum correction, as proper airflow can improve both sleep quality and overall health.
A history of nasal trauma, whether from sports, accidents, or injuries during childhood, can lead to structural defects in the septum that warrant surgical intervention.
Noticeable nostril asymmetry or a severe septal deflection that causes chronic congestion, frequent sinus infections, or difficulty tolerating breathing devices may indicate the need for treatment.

Ultimately, candidates are evaluated on the combination of functional impairment, structural abnormalities, and overall impact on quality of life to determine whether septoplasty or related procedures are the best solution.

Benefits of Correcting a Deviated Septum

Breathe Easier with Our Advanced Treatments

To achieve excellent results with deviated septum treatment, Houston residents can rely on our board-certified ENT specialist, who combines expertise with the latest advanced techniques to restore both form and function. Treatments focus on improving nasal breathing and overall nasal function while also addressing aesthetic concerns when needed.

During a septoplasty procedure, the mucosal lining is carefully preserved to promote healing, and the nasal valves are supported to maintain an open airway. In severe cases, additional interventions such as bone grafting may be used to reinforce the septum, and revision septoplasty is available for patients who have not achieved optimal results from previous surgery.

Many procedures can be performed without general anesthesia, allowing patients to experience a more comfortable and efficient treatment process. The goal is not only sinus relief but also improved long-term breathing and overall comfort.

Cost of Deviated Septum Repair in Houston, TX

The cost of deviated septum repair in Houston ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the surgeon’s experience. Factors influencing septoplasty cost include the need for additional procedures, anesthesia type, and whether any cartilage grafts or other corrective techniques are required. Insurance may cover part of the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, so it’s always a good idea to check with your provider before scheduling surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Is septoplasty surgery painful?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated septum and improve breathing. During the procedure, the mucous membrane lining the nose is carefully lifted to access the septum, which helps minimize discomfort. Most patients report only mild pain afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medications.

Why is it crucial to fix a deviated nasal septum as soon as possible?

Addressing a deviated septum promptly can prevent complications, such as chronic sinusitis and ongoing nasal obstruction. Early correction also ensures better outcomes if patients later consider plastic surgery, as a straight septum supports both functional and aesthetic improvements.

Is Dr. Cilento a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon?

Yes, Dr. Cilento is a board-certified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) and facial plastic surgeon. He specializes in correcting septal issues while preserving the cartilaginous septum and achieving results without visible scarring, ensuring both functional and cosmetic excellence.

Deviated Septum Doctor in Houston, TX

What Is a Deviated Septum?