Deviated Septum

A deviated septum means that the septum, or the hard midline structure that divides the inside of the nose into two equal halves, is bent or crooked. This usually occurs as a result of injuries to the nose throughout life.

The consequence of a deviated septum is that one nasal passage becomes larger and one becomes smaller. This usually means that someone with a deviated septum will feel that breathing through one nostril is easier than the other. In order to fix this, patients may consult with an ENT or plastic surgeon for a septoplasty, in which the deviated septum is straightened surgically.

At Elite Oral and Facial Surgery, we do not perform formal rhinoplasty or septoplasty. However, for patients undergoing corrective jaw surgery, and specifically, Lefort osteotomy (upper jaw surgery), we will have direct access the the lower portion of the nasal septum. During the jaw surgery procedure, we can straighten the lower portion of a deviated septum, especially if it is connected to a crooked upper jaw. During the surgery, by straightening the maxilla and securing the septum to the midline, we can straighten the septum to an extent. Many patients find that their nasal is quite improved after Lefort I osteotomy, and do not feel the need to pursue further nasal procedures.

If you think that you might benefit from this procedure, do not hesitate to mention it to your doctor at your consultation.