Treatment

• One of the most common treatments for a deviated septum is septoplasty, a surgical procedure where a surgeon repositions the septum, making your nostrils of equal size.
  
  

Time Frame

• A septoplasty typically lasts one to 1 1/2 hours, and doctors often perform the procedure on an outpatient basis, reports the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Normally, patients are free to return home approximately three to four hours after the procedure, explains the American Rhinologic Society.
  
  

Features

• During the procedure, your doctor packs your nostrils with splints and cotton to support your septum. Around two to five days after the septoplasty, you will visit your doctor to have the splints and cotton removed, asserts the Mayo Clinic.
  
  

Risks

• Your nose may appear different after a septoplasty due to the repositioning of your septum. Other risks associated with the procedure include the formation of a hole or perforation in your septum, permanent numbness on the tip of your nose, excessive bleeding, infection, or loss of smell, cautions the American Rhinologic Society.
  
  

Self Care

• During the first few days after septoplasty, avoid strenuous activity, exercise and blowing your nose, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Avoid pulling clothing over your head during the recovery process.