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Septoplasty for Deviated Septum in Gangnam, Seoul

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

What is septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a functional operation that corrects a bent or displaced nasal septum, the wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nose into left and right passages. The surgeon works through an incision inside the nose, lifts the lining, and reshapes or removes only the deviated portions of cartilage and bone. There is no external scar, and the outer shape of the nose is usually unchanged because septoplasty targets function, not appearance.

Who is it for?

Many people have a slightly off-center septum without symptoms. Septoplasty is considered when a deviated septum clearly causes problems, such as:

• Persistent one-sided or two-sided nasal obstruction
• Snoring or obstructive sleep apnea worsened by a narrow nasal airway
• Recurrent sinus problems where the septum blocks drainage
• Difficulty using CPAP because of nasal blockage

How it is done at our Gangnam clinic

Septoplasty was a core part of Dr. Kim Yoo Suk's rhinology subspecialty during his years as a clinical assistant professor at Yonsei and assistant professor at Ajou University. Diagnosis starts with nasal endoscopy, and a sinus CT scan is used when the deviation or sinuses need closer evaluation.

• Anesthesia: local anesthesia; you remain awake but numb.
• Operating time: about 20 to 30 minutes.
• Packing: bilateral packing for 1 day, removed at the clinic the next day.
• Sutures: absorbable stitches that dissolve in 2 to 3 weeks.
• Discharge: same-day admission; most patients go home without a guardian.

When enlarged turbinates also obstruct breathing, Dr. Kim may combine the operation with turbinate reduction in the same session.

Recovery and aftercare

Protect your nose for 2 weeks. That means avoiding bumps, contact sports, heavy lifting and forceful nose blowing. A blocked feeling is normal while the packing is in place and for a few days after removal. Mild bloody discharge and crusting are common early on. Follow-up visits let the doctor clean the nasal passages and check healing.

Risks and limitations

Possible complications include bleeding, infection, a septal hematoma (a blood collection that needs drainage), numbness of the upper front teeth, and, uncommonly, a septal perforation. Some people have a residual deviation. Septoplasty improves airflow through the septum but does not treat allergy or sinus disease on its own. Contact the clinic promptly if you develop increasing pain, fever, or bleeding that does not stop.

Practical information for foreign patients

Your consultation, consent and aftercare instructions can be discussed in English. Many visitors complete testing, consultation and surgery on the same day, then return the following day for packing removal, so plan at least that much time in Seoul. English medical certificates and itemized receipts are available for your insurer. The clinic is about 2 minutes from Gangnam-gu Office Station Exit 3. See location and hours and Dr. Kim's credentials.

Frequently asked questions

Does septoplasty change the shape of my nose?

Septoplasty is performed inside the nose to improve breathing and usually does not change the outer appearance. If a crooked external nose also needs correction, that is a separate rhinoplasty discussion, and Dr. Kim can explain the difference during your consultation.

How long does the packing stay in after septoplasty?

At our clinic, soft packing is placed on both sides for one day. You return the next day to have it removed. Breathing through the nose is limited while it is in place, so plan to rest quietly that evening.

When can I exercise after septoplasty?

Protect your nose for about two weeks. Avoid contact sports, heavy lifting and strenuous workouts during that time. Light walking is usually fine sooner. Dr. Kim will confirm when to resume full activity at your follow-up visit.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis or a guarantee of results; every treatment carries risks, and suitability is decided only after an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.