Deviated Septum in Mumbai: Diagnosis and Septoplasty with Dr. Shama Kovale
Persistent nasal blockage can affect breathing, sleep, concentration and everyday comfort. If one side of your nose always feels congested or you regularly breathe through your mouth, a deviated nasal septum could be one possible cause. While mild deviations may not require treatment, significant symptoms deserve evaluation by an ENT specialist.
For people searching for deviated septum in mumbai, Dr. Shama Kovale offers specialised ENT evaluation and surgical care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, Andheri West. With more than 23 years of clinical and surgical experience, she focuses on understanding the underlying cause of nasal symptoms and recommending an appropriate treatment plan.
What Is a Deviated Nasal Septum?
The nasal septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the nose into two passages. Ideally, it sits near the centre of the nose, allowing air to move through both sides. When the septum is displaced to one side, it is known as a deviated nasal septum.
Some people are born with this condition, while others develop it following an injury to the nose. In certain cases, the deviation is mild and causes no noticeable problems. In others, it can narrow one nasal passage and contribute to persistent breathing difficulties.
A deviated septum may also occur alongside enlarged nasal turbinates, allergies or chronic sinus inflammation. Identifying these associated conditions is important because nasal blockage does not always result from septal deviation alone.
Common Symptoms of a Deviated Septum
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the deviation. You may benefit from an ENT assessment if you experience:
Persistent nasal blockage: One or both nostrils may feel obstructed, sometimes more noticeably on one side.
Difficulty breathing through the nose: Nasal airflow may feel restricted during daily activities or exercise.
Mouth breathing: You may breathe through your mouth, particularly at night.
Snoring or disturbed sleep: Nasal obstruction can contribute to snoring and poor sleep quality, although other causes may also be involved.
Repeated sinus symptoms: Some patients experience recurrent sinus complaints, but a deviated septum is not the only possible explanation.
Nosebleeds or nasal discomfort: Dryness and irritation may contribute to bleeding in some cases.
These symptoms can overlap with allergies, infections and other nasal conditions. A proper examination helps establish the cause rather than relying on symptoms alone.
What Causes a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum can develop for several reasons. Some common causes include:
Developmental differences: The septum may develop off-centre during childhood or growth.
Nasal injury: An accident, sports injury or impact to the nose can displace the septum. Sometimes, an injury may have occurred years before symptoms become troublesome.
Age-related changes: Structural changes in the nose over time may influence existing nasal obstruction.
Not everyone with a deviated septum needs surgery. Treatment depends on how significantly the condition affects breathing, sleep and quality of life.
How Is a Deviated Septum Diagnosed?
An ENT specialist begins by discussing your symptoms, medical history and any previous nasal injuries or treatments. The examination may include inspecting the nose and assessing airflow.
Dr. Shama Kovale’s septoplasty care information describes the use of nasal endoscopy and appropriate imaging when required to evaluate septal deviation and associated turbinate problems. Nasal endoscopy allows the specialist to examine internal nasal structures using a thin viewing instrument. A CT scan may be recommended when sinus disease or other concerns need further assessment; imaging is not necessary for every patient.
This evaluation helps distinguish a structural obstruction from conditions such as allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps or sinus inflammation. The findings guide the decision about whether medication, surgery or a combination of treatments is appropriate.
Treatment Options for a Deviated Septum
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment
When symptoms are related partly to allergies or inflammation, an ENT specialist may recommend treatments such as saline nasal rinses or appropriate nasal medication. These options can help manage inflammation and congestion, but they cannot physically straighten a deviated septum.
Avoid using decongestant nasal sprays for longer than recommended, as prolonged use can worsen congestion. Always discuss suitable medication with your healthcare professional.
2. Septoplasty Surgery
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects the position of the nasal septum to improve airflow. The surgeon reshapes or repositions the deviated portions of cartilage and bone while preserving adequate support for the nose.
It is generally considered when significant nasal obstruction persists and the examination confirms that septal deviation is contributing to the symptoms.
Septoplasty is usually performed through the nostrils, so an external incision is often unnecessary. Depending on the patient’s needs and the procedure, anaesthesia may be local or general, with general anaesthesia commonly used. The appropriate approach is determined by the treating surgeon and anaesthesia team.
3. Turbinate Reduction and Associated Nasal Treatment
The turbinates are structures inside the nose that help warm and humidify inhaled air. If they are enlarged and contribute to obstruction, the surgeon may discuss turbinate reduction alongside septoplasty.
Patients who also have sinus disease may need a separate or combined treatment plan. The decision depends on examination findings rather than assuming that every patient needs multiple procedures.
What to Expect During Recovery After Septoplasty
Recovery varies from person to person, depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Nasal congestion, mild discomfort, swelling or a small amount of blood-stained discharge may occur during the initial recovery period.
Your surgeon will explain how to clean the nose, whether saline rinses are appropriate, which medicines to take and when to return for follow-up. Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activity and protect the nose from impact until cleared by their treating team.
Some people return to light daily activities within about a week, but complete healing takes longer. Do not judge the final breathing result during the first few days, when swelling and internal healing can temporarily affect airflow.
Seek urgent medical advice if you experience heavy or persistent bleeding, difficulty breathing, high fever, severe worsening pain or any other concerning symptoms after surgery.
As with all operations, septoplasty carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, persistent obstruction, septal perforation or changes in smell. Your surgeon can explain the risks relevant to your circumstances before you decide.
Why Consult Dr. Shama Kovale for Nasal and ENT Care?
Dr. Shama Kovale holds an MBBS, DLO and MS in ENT from B.Y.L. Nair Hospital and Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai. Her additional training includes advanced education in voice and swallowing disorders at the University of California, Davis, a laryngology fellowship at Bombay Hospital, and cochlear implant surgery training at P. D. Hinduja Hospital.
With more than 23 years of clinical and surgical experience, she has worked with established healthcare institutions and manages a range of ear, nose and throat conditions. Her areas of expertise include nasal and sinus disorders, endoscopic ENT surgery, airway conditions, voice and swallowing disorders, and cochlear implant surgery.
At Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, patients can access specialist assessment within a multispecialty hospital environment. Dr. Kovale’s approach emphasises evaluating the underlying problem, explaining treatment options and planning care according to individual needs.
If you are comparing options for the Best ENT in Mumbai, consider the specialist’s relevant experience, the quality of communication and whether the proposed treatment addresses your specific symptoms. People searching for ENT Specialists Near Me in Mumbai should also confirm the clinic location and appointment availability before visiting.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Persistent nasal obstruction should not be ignored, especially when it affects sleep, exercise or everyday breathing. An ENT consultation can help determine whether a deviated septum is responsible for your symptoms and whether medical management or septoplasty may be appropriate.
Consult Dr. Shama Kovale at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for timely evaluation and expert hearing care.
Give Us a Ring: +91-91528 50769
Email: drshamakovaleent@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main symptoms of a deviated septum?
Common symptoms include persistent nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, mouth breathing, snoring and sometimes recurrent sinus complaints. An ENT examination can help identify whether septal deviation is responsible.
2. Is surgery always necessary for a deviated septum?
No. Mild deviations without significant symptoms may not require treatment. Medication can help manage associated allergies or inflammation, but surgery may be considered when structural obstruction continues to affect breathing.
3. How long does recovery from septoplasty take?
Many patients resume light daily activities within approximately a week, but recovery varies. Internal healing can take several weeks, and the surgeon’s instructions and follow-up schedule should guide your return to exercise and other activities.
4. How can I consult Dr. Shama Kovale for a deviated septum in Mumbai?
You can contact Dr. Shama Kovale at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Andheri West, by calling +91-91528 50769 or emailing drshamakovaleent@gmail.com to enquire about an appointment.
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