Septoplasty Procedure

in San Francisco

A Clearer Path to Better Breathing

Are you a candidate for septoplasty?

Breathe Freely Again at Aesthetic Surgery Center

Do you struggle with persistent nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, or difficulty breathing through one side of your nose? These may signal a deviated septum — the wall of bone and cartilage that separates your nasal passages — which can significantly impact airflow and quality of life.

At Aesthetic Surgery Center, Dr. Macdonald specializes in surgical correction of this structural issue via septoplasty. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to restore proper nasal airflow, reduce symptoms of obstruction, and improve your breathing comfort.

What happens during a septoplasty?

Refining Nasal Structure for Function and Comfort

A septoplasty is a focused surgical procedure dedicated to straightening or repositioning the nasal septum to improve function. Here is how it works:

Performed under either general anesthesia or monitored sedation, depending on your case and combination procedures.
An incision is made inside the nose — no visible external scar.
The mucosal lining is carefully elevated to expose the bony and cartilaginous septum.
Deviated or obstructive segments of the septum are trimmed, repositioned, or removed as needed while preserving structural support.
Any necessary support material or grafts may be placed for optimal nasal shape and function.
The mucosal flap is replaced, and your nose may be supported temporarily with internal splints or dressings.
Typical procedural time: 30 to 90 minutes depending on complexity.

What must I do to prepare?

Proper preparation helps ensure safe surgery and optimal outcomes. Before your septoplasty:

Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain supplements that can increase bleeding — usually for two weeks prior.
Refrain from smoking or vaping — nicotine impairs healing and increases complication risk.
Arrange for post‑operative care: you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night.
Review your medical history and disclose any nasal or sinus conditions, prior surgeries, or medications.

What is recovery like?

Recovery from septoplasty is typically straightforward when managed by an experienced surgeon and team. Expect:

Minimal discomfort, most often mild to moderate and managed with prescribed pain relief.
Mild nasal congestion or stuffiness for 1‑2 weeks as internal healing occurs.
Splints or dressings removed within 1 week; many patients return to light activities within 5‑7 days.
No strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or nose‑blowing for about 2 weeks.
Final functional results (improved airflow) begin early — full healing and optimal results may take up to 3‑6 months.

Why choose septoplasty with Dr. Macdonald?

This procedure does more than make breathing easier:

Enhanced nasal airflow improves sleep quality, reduces fatigue, and often diminishes snoring or obstructive symptoms.
Localized correction of the septum preserves your natural nose shape while improving function.
With Dr. Macdonald’s dual expertise in facial plastic and ENT surgery, your functional and aesthetic outcomes are considered.
At Aesthetic Surgery Center, the surgical experience is tailored, comfortable, and backed by years of focused nasal airway care.

Before & After Results

Real Transformations with Septoplasty Procedure

Combined treatment with turbinate or nasal valve correction

Often, a deviated septum may coexist with enlarged turbinates or a weakened nasal valve — both contributing to nasal obstruction. In such cases, we may recommend combining septoplasty with:

Turbinate Reduction

LATERA Absorbable Nasal Implant or other nasal valve repair options

Together, these combined procedures improve both the structure and airflow dynamics of your nose for lasting relief.

Learn more about our full suite of breathing‑treatment options → Explore Breathing Treatments