Septoplasty

Septoplasty is a functional nasal surgery designed to correct a deviated septum and restore proper airflow through the nasal passages. At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Charles Kim performs septoplasty using advanced diagnostic evaluation and precision surgical techniques to improve breathing, sleep quality, and overall nasal function while preserving the nose’s natural structure. By addressing internal nasal obstruction at its source, septoplasty can significantly reduce chronic congestion, sinus pressure, snoring, and breathing difficulty. Dr. Kim’s patient-centered approach emphasizes long-term results, safety, and individualized surgical planning, often integrating septoplasty with other nasal procedures when appropriate to optimize both function and comfort.

Overview

Septoplasty is a specialized nasal surgery that corrects structural abnormalities of the nasal septum the thin wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into left and right airways. When the septum is deviated, crooked, thickened, or displaced, it can obstruct airflow and contribute to chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, sinus infections, postnasal drip, headaches, snoring, and sleep disturbances.

At CK Plastic Surgery, Dr. Charles Kim approaches septoplasty with a focus on functional restoration, anatomical balance, and long-term nasal health. Unlike cosmetic rhinoplasty, septoplasty is a medically indicated procedure intended to improve breathing rather than alter the external appearance of the nose. However, Dr. Kim’s expertise in both functional and aesthetic nasal surgery allows him to address internal structural issues while maintaining or enhancing nasal harmony when needed.

Each septoplasty begins with a comprehensive consultation and nasal evaluation, which may include physical examination, nasal endoscopy, imaging, and airflow assessment. Dr. Kim carefully analyzes the internal nasal anatomy, identifying septal deviation patterns, cartilage weakness, bony spurs, and contributing factors such as turbinate hypertrophy or valve collapse. This level of analysis ensures precise surgical planning tailored to the patient’s symptoms and anatomy.

During septoplasty surgery, Dr. Kim carefully repositions, trims, or removes deviated portions of septal cartilage and bone while preserving essential structural support. Advanced techniques allow for correction without compromising nasal stability, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues and reducing recovery time. Incisions are made internally, meaning there are no visible external scars.

Septoplasty is frequently combined with turbinate reduction, nasal valve repair, or functional rhinoplasty when multiple contributors to nasal obstruction are present. Dr. Kim’s experience with advanced nasal surgery techniques ensures that airflow improvement is achieved without overcorrection or weakening of the nose.

Patients undergoing septoplasty at CK Plastic Surgery benefit from meticulous surgical execution, comprehensive pre-operative planning, and attentive post-operative care. The result is improved nasal breathing, reduced congestion, better sleep quality, and enhanced overall quality of life all delivered with the highest standards of safety, precision, and patient-centered care.

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Overview

Benefits & Candidates

Improves nasal airflow and breathing through the nose

Reduces chronic nasal congestion and obstruction

Decreases sinus infections and sinus pressure symptoms

Improves sleep quality and reduces snoring

Enhances oxygen intake during exercise and daily activity

Corrects structural causes of nasal blockage

Provides long-term functional relief without external scarring

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1. Patients with a diagnosed deviated nasal septum

2. Individuals experiencing chronic nasal obstruction or congestion

3. Patients with recurrent sinus infections related to airflow blockage

4. Individuals in good overall health with realistic expectations

5. Patients with breathing difficulty worsened during sleep or exercise

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The Process

Comprehensive Consultation & Nasal Evaluation
Detailed examination of nasal anatomy, airflow obstruction, and septal deviation.

Surgical Planning & Anesthesia
Customized surgical plan created based on internal nasal structure and symptoms.

Internal Nasal Incisions
Incisions made inside the nose to access the septum without external scars.

Septal Correction
Deviated cartilage and bone are repositioned, reshaped, or removed to restore airflow.

Structural Stabilization
Preservation of nasal support structures to maintain long-term function.

Closure & Recovery Initiation
Internal sutures placed, with splints if needed, followed by monitored recovery.

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Recovery & Risks

Septoplasty is considered a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon, but as with any surgery, it carries potential risks. Common temporary side effects include nasal swelling, congestion, mild discomfort, bruising, and drainage during the early healing phase. These symptoms typically improve within the first one to two weeks following surgery.

Less common risks may include bleeding, infection, septal perforation, changes in nasal sensation, or persistent nasal obstruction. Dr. Kim minimizes these risks through careful surgical technique, conservative tissue handling, and strict adherence to patient safety protocols.

Recovery after septoplasty is generally straightforward. Most patients return home the same day and can resume light activities within a few days. Nasal splints or internal supports may be used temporarily to stabilize healing structures. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, nose blowing, and heavy lifting during the initial recovery period.

Swelling inside the nose gradually subsides over several weeks, with breathing improvements often noticeable once early congestion resolves. Full internal healing continues over several months, allowing airflow to progressively improve. Dr. Kim provides detailed post-operative instructions, follow-up visits, and ongoing support to ensure optimal healing and long-term success.

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Real Results

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is septoplasty effective for fixing one-sided nasal blockage?

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Yes, septoplasty is highly effective for one-sided nasal blockage caused by a deviated septum. Many people searching for single-nostril breathing issues discover their septum leans or bends into one nasal passage. Dr. Charles Kim repositions the deviated cartilage to restore balanced airflow. This correction reduces pressure, congestion, and reliance on temporary remedies like nasal strips or sprays.

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Can septoplasty help with snoring or sleep problems?

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Yes, septoplasty can improve snoring and sleep quality when nasal obstruction contributes to mouth breathing at night. Patients searching for deviated septum snoring solutions commonly report reduced nighttime congestion after surgery. By straightening the airway, Dr. Charles Kim helps create smoother airflow that supports more restful sleep. Although not a full treatment for sleep apnea, it often improves nighttime breathing comfort.

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Will septoplasty change the appearance of my nose?

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Septoplasty typically does not change the external appearance of your nose. The procedure focuses on internal cartilage and bone that affect airflow rather than cosmetic shape. People searching for internal nasal correction without cosmetic changes often prefer septoplasty alone. At CK Plastic Surgery, Dr. Charles Kim performs functional adjustments that restore proper nasal alignment while preserving natural form unless cosmetic rhinoplasty is also requested.

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How long do septoplasty results typically last?

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Septoplasty results are long-lasting because the corrected septum remains stable after healing. Many individuals researching long-term deviated septum correction want assurance that breathing won’t worsen again. Dr. Charles Kim reinforces the septal structure during surgery to maintain alignment and prevent collapse. Once healed, most patients experience permanent improvement in airflow, reduced congestion, and better sleep quality.

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How does septoplasty help chronic nasal congestion?

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Septoplasty helps chronic nasal congestion by correcting the internal deviation that restricts airflow. Patients researching persistent nasal blockage causes often discover that the septum itself is responsible rather than allergies. Dr. Charles Kim carefully repositions and reshapes the obstructing cartilage, creating a more open pathway. This structural improvement allows more consistent airflow and reduces dependence on nasal sprays or decongestants.

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