Septoplasty is a surgical procedure intended to correct a deviated nasal septum. This operation aims to straighten the septum in order to restore proper airflow in the nasal passages. The surgeon generally works through the nostrils to reposition and, if necessary, remove part of the cartilage or bone responsible for the obstruction.
The cost of a septoplasty varies depending on the country, the type of procedure, the surgeon’s reputation, and the facility where it is performed (public hospital, private clinic, etc.). The table below presents a comparison of average prices for septoplasty in different countries in 2025, including the most common methods.
| Country | Traditional septoplasty | Endoscopic septoplasty | Laser-assisted septoplasty |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | €1800 – €3500 | €2200 – €4000 | €2500 – €4300 |
| United Kingdom | €2200 – €4500 | €2800 – €5200 | €3200 – €5600 |
| Germany | €2000 – €3700 | €2500 – €4200 | €2800 – €4700 |
| Netherlands | €2100 – €4000 | €2600 – €4600 | €3000 – €5000 |
| Italy | €1700 – €3400 | €2100 – €3900 | €2400 – €4300 |
| Tunisia | €1200 – €1800 | €1800 – €2600 | €2000 – €2800 |
| Turkey | €1300 – €2200 | €1700 – €2600 | €1900 – €3000 |
| Hungary | €1400 – €2300 | €1800 – €2700 | €2100 – €3000 |
| Czech Republic | €1350 – €2400 | €1700 – €2600 | €1850 – €2800 |
| Lithuania | €1200 – €2100 | €1500 – €2300 | €1700 – €2500 |
| Thailand | €2000 – €3200 | €2500 – €3800 | €2800 – €4000 |
| Poland | €1300 – €2100 | €1600 – €2500 | €1800 – €2700 |
| Belgium | €1800 – €3400 | €2200 – €3900 | €2500 – €4200 |
| Brazil | €1700 – €2900 | €2100 – €3300 | €2400 – €3600 |
| Albania | €1100 – €1700 | €1400 – €2000 | €1600 – €2200 |
Prices updated for 2025, for reference only and may vary depending on individual cases.
Septoplasty is generally covered by social security or health insurance when it is performed for medical reasons (proven nasal obstruction, breathing difficulties, functional complications). However, if performed solely for cosmetic reasons, it is typically not reimbursed.
The main goal of septoplasty is to restore proper breathing by correcting a deviation of the nasal septum. There are various techniques depending on the nature of the deviation and the patient’s needs. These include:
In recent years, septoplasty has benefited from significant technological advancements:
Septoplasty is most often performed under general anesthesia, but deep local anesthesia can be offered in some cases. After disinfecting the face, the surgeon typically makes discreet incisions inside the nostrils to access the nasal septum, leaving no visible scar on the skin.
The surgeon then gently lifts the mucosa covering the septum. The septum is straightened by removing or reshaping the deviated parts of cartilage and/or bone. Depending on the situation, grafts may be used to stabilize the new shape of the septum.
Finally, the mucosa is carefully repositioned, and the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. Splints or packing may be temporarily placed in the nasal passages to keep the septum straight and control bleeding during the first postoperative days.
Generally, a septoplasty lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. This duration may vary depending on the complexity of the deviation, the technique used (traditional, endoscopic, or laser-assisted), and whether other surgical procedures are needed.
No pain is felt during the procedure thanks to anesthesia (general or local). After the operation, pains are usually moderate and well controlled by simple painkillers.
Some patients report discomfort, a sensation of nasal congestion due to the presence of packing or splints, as well as mild headaches or bruising. Severe pain is rare. In case of significant pain, it is recommended to quickly contact the medical team.
The postoperative follow-up phase is essential to ensure both the patient’s safety and the stability of the result achieved after septoplasty. This period requires patience, as healing takes place over several weeks or even months. Good medical support also helps to prevent possible complications and realistically assess the benefits of the procedure on breathing and nasal comfort.
The recovery period after septoplasty varies according to the patient and the technique used. Most internal swelling and possible hematomas resolve within two to three weeks.
However, it generally takes about 2 to 3 months to appreciate the functional result, that is to say, the optimal reopening of the airways. The remodeling of the septum and the internal healing subtly continue for 6 to 12 months after the operation, by which time the result is considered final.
A well-performed septoplasty offers lasting effects on the quality of breathing. For the majority of patients, the functional benefit remains long-term, provided that no new nasal trauma or chronic disease affecting the nose occurs.
However, rare cases of secondary deviation of the septum may appear over time, sometimes requiring reoperation. Therefore, ENT follow-up is recommended if symptoms reappear several months or years after the surgical procedure.
It is common to feel nasal discomfort (blocked nose, mild pain, small nosebleeds) during the first week, but these symptoms gradually ease over the days. Simple painkillers provide relief from most of the discomfort.
Swelling inside the nose may persist for several weeks, and the sensation of fully liberated breathing develops later. Scars are very discreet or even invisible since they are made inside the nostrils. It is advisable to avoid sports activities and exposure to dust during the healing period.
Like any surgical procedure, septoplasty carries risks: infection, prolonged bleeding, persistence or recurrence of nasal obstruction, septal perforation, healing disorders… These complications remain generally rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced specialist.
Strict adherence to postoperative advice (nasal hygiene, follow-up appointments) reduces the risk of complications. At the slightest concern (unusual pain, fever, persistent discharge), it is important to consult quickly. Open communication with the surgeon, transparency regarding medical history, and following instructions are the best guarantees for optimizing the success of the operation and the patient’s safety.
