Taking a Deep Breath Making It Possible

A deviated septum can make breathing difficult, contribute to chronic congestion, snoring, sinus infections, and overall discomfort. Septoplasty is a specialized surgical procedure to straighten the cartilage and bone of the nasal septum. This improves airflow and helps you breathe more easily.

At Chalekson Plastic Surgery | MedSpa, our approach to septoplasty emphasizes both medical precision and patient-centered care. Whether functional or combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty, septoplasty in San Luis Obispo is tailored to each patient's anatomy and needs, ensuring optimal results with minimal downtime.

What Is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum, the cartilage and bone structure dividing the nasal passages, which can block airflow and cause chronic congestion. The procedure involves:

  • Realignment of the septum: Dr. Chalekson carefully repositions or removes obstructive portions of cartilage or bone to create a straighter nasal passage.
  • Preserving nasal structure: While improving airflow, the procedure maintains the natural shape and support of the nose.
  • Optional turbinate reduction: In some cases, additional procedures can be performed to further improve airflow. For example, if interior nodules, called turbinates, block breathing, these can also be addressed.

Septoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia, and most patients experience significant improvement in breathing and nasal function after recovery.

Banner media
Women hand on chin

Am I a Candidate for Septoplasty?

Septoplasty may be a good option for patients who:

  • Have difficulty breathing through the nose due to a deviated septum
  • Experience chronic nasal congestion, snoring, or recurrent sinus infections
  • Have a nasal obstruction that affects sleep quality or daily life
  • Have previously tried medical treatments (like nasal sprays or allergy therapy) without adequate relief

A personalized consultation with Dr. Chalekson will determine your suitability for septoplasty and whether adjunct procedures might further enhance your results.

The Septoplasty Procedure

Septoplasty in San Luis Obispo is a precise, targeted surgical procedure that follows a series of steps:

  • Anesthesia: Patients are given local or general anesthesia to ensure comfort during surgery.
  • Incision: A small incision is made inside the nose, leaving no visible external scars.
  • Correction of the septum: Deviated cartilage and bone are carefully repositioned or trimmed to improve airway alignment.
  • Stabilization: In some cases, temporary splints or soft internal dressings are placed to support healing.
  • Closure and recovery: Incisions are closed, and patients typically return home the same day.

The procedure usually takes 60–90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the deviation and any additional treatments performed.

Support Through Recovery

Recovery from septoplasty is generally smooth, and most patients notice an immediate improvement in nasal airflow. Key points to know:

  • Initial recovery: Mild swelling, congestion, and discomfort are common for the first few days. Over-the-counter pain medication or prescribed medications can help manage symptoms.
  • Return to activities: Light activity can usually resume within a week, while strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2–4 weeks.
  • Nasal care: Gentle saline rinses and careful attention to nasal hygiene help ensure proper healing.

Our nurse and physician assistant team, as well as our dedicated Patient Care Coordinator, are here to answer your questions and provide ongoing support during your recovery.

Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us

Testimonials

“I feel free for the first time in so long, and the relief has been incredible. I always felt like I was in the best possible hands.”

– H.S.

“I am healing, I am HAPPY, and I know I can reach out to them for anything. They have taken such good care of me.”

– K.D.

“I am so completely happy with my body transformation. My life has already been transformed and it was completely worth it.”

– L.K.

“Great surgeon and office! Special shoutout to Angela that really advocated for me by arguing with my insurance to get coverage. Not only are the MAs and front desk nice but Dr. Cha...”

Great surgeon and office! Special shoutout to Angela that really advocated for me by arguing with my insurance to get coverage. Not only are the MAs and front desk nice but Dr. Chalekson also truly cares for his patients. I've gotten multiple compliments on the work he has done from close friends and my partner. Thank you guys for everything you have done for me. You gave me the experience of being comfortable in my body for the first time in my life.

– S.

“As a mom of three little boys, I just wanted to feel like me again, like I did before years of nursing and pregnancy. Thanks to Dr. Chalekson and his amazing team, I now do. The re...”

As a mom of three little boys, I just wanted to feel like me again, like I did before years of nursing and pregnancy. Thanks to Dr. Chalekson and his amazing team, I now do. The results of my BA are absolutely beautiful and so natural, which was important to me. The staff were incredibly kind, and the level of individual care in the operating room was exceptional. Dr. Chalekson is honest and down to earth, I felt comfortable talking to him each time we met and always felt he was giving me honest feedback that was never rushed. I couldn’t be happier with my experience and the confidence I’ve regained. Can’t recommend enough!

– S.L.

“The whole experience from my first visit to today has been amazing. DR Chalekson and his staff are amazing. I highly recommend this surgical office. I am so impressed with the staf...”

The whole experience from my first visit to today has been amazing. DR Chalekson and his staff are amazing. I highly recommend this surgical office. I am so impressed with the staff and outcome of my procedure.

– C.S.

“From the very beginning, at the initial consultation, I was greeted and treated with the upmost professionalism, and attentiveness. The beautiful, elegant, and private office made ...”

From the very beginning, at the initial consultation, I was greeted and treated with the upmost professionalism, and attentiveness. The beautiful, elegant, and private office made the experience perfect. The staff and doctor were available to answer any of my questions and worked with extremely busy schedule. Dr. Chalekson has raised the bar and set the new standard that all practitioners in his field should mirror.

– M.S.

“I had the best experience with Chalekson Plastic Surgery. I was a bundle of nerves and Dr. Chalekson and staff made me feel at ease. I am 4 days post op and I’m already amaze...”

I had the best experience with Chalekson Plastic Surgery. I was a bundle of nerves and Dr. Chalekson and staff made me feel at ease. I am 4 days post op and I’m already amazed by the results. I feel so grateful to have been treated by Dr. Chalekson and staff. A special thanks to Stephanie (surgical nurse), Christine (nurse manager) and Danielle (pre & post op nurse).

– A.C.

“The first time I walked into the office, it was like coming home to family. Everyone said hi and the nurse was fabulous. Kind and professional. Then the Doctor came in and made me ...”

The first time I walked into the office, it was like coming home to family. Everyone said hi and the nurse was fabulous. Kind and professional. Then the Doctor came in and made me feel comfortable with the procedure. He is kind, professional and funny. I left there feeling like my procedure would be smooth and in very good hands.

– P.M.

“I had a great experience! Dr. Chalekson and his staff are kind, helpful and professional. My surgery and recovery went well, and I was delighted with the outcome. His office staff ...”

I had a great experience! Dr. Chalekson and his staff are kind, helpful and professional. My surgery and recovery went well, and I was delighted with the outcome. His office staff worked with my insurance company and made the process so easy and stress free. I fully recommend Dr Chalekson and would not hesitate to visit him again for any future needs.

– D.M.
Read More Testimonials
Reviews media

Results

Improved breathing is typically noticeable almost immediately, with full healing and optimal airway function developing over several weeks.

Patients often report enhanced sleep quality, reduced sinus infections, and an overall increase in comfort and quality of life.

Septoplasty in Templeton, CA FAQ

Will septoplasty change the appearance of my nose?

Septoplasty is designed to improve breathing, not alter your appearance. Because the procedure is performed entirely inside the nose, it typically does not change the external shape. However, if you are interested in cosmetic refinement, septoplasty can be thoughtfully combined with rhinoplasty to address function and aesthetics at the same time.

How long do septoplasty results last?

Septoplasty provides a long-term correction of structural deviation. Once the septum is properly realigned and healed, the results are typically permanent. While normal aging or trauma can affect nasal structure over time, most patients enjoy lasting improvement.

Is septoplasty covered by insurance?

Because septoplasty is performed to correct functional breathing issues rather than for cosmetic reasons, it is often covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan. Our Patient Care Coordinator can help guide you through verification and preauthorization when applicable.

Will I have nasal packing after surgery?

In most modern septoplasty procedures, bulky nasal packing is not required. When internal support is needed, soft splints may be placed temporarily to stabilize the septum during healing. These are typically removed within several days and are designed for your comfort.

Can a deviated septum come back after surgery?

Recurrence is uncommon when septoplasty is performed carefully, and the nasal structure is properly supported during healing. Following postoperative instructions and protecting the nose from trauma are important factors in maintaining long-term results.

FAQ media

National-Caliber Results Without the Big-City Hassle Why Patients Choose Us in San Luis Obispo

At Chalekson Plastic Surgery | MedSpa, every aspect of your care is centered around expertise, continuity, and exceptional results. Even patients with access to major metropolitan aesthetic markets choose our practice for the quality of our results. While based in Templeton, Dr. Chalekson delivers surgical outcomes that rival the top practices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. For those seeking world-class expertise without the noise, traffic, or pressure of a big city, our practice provides a quieter, more personalized setting while maintaining uncompromising standards of care.

Schedule Your Septoplasty Consultation in San Luis Obispo

If you are struggling with breathing difficulties, chronic congestion, or other issues related to a deviated septum, Dr. Charles Chalekson can help. Our practice offers individualized, expert care for deviated septum surgery in San Luis Obispo and throughout California, including Paso Robles, Atascadero, Templeton, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, and Santa Maria.

Contact our team today at (805) 386-7164 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward improved breathing, enhanced comfort, and renewed confidence.

Take the Next Step Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering plastic surgery in San Luis Obispo County, our team can help you understand your options and move toward the outcome that feels right for you. We welcome patients from across California and the United States, including Paso Robles, Atascadero, Templeton, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, and Santa Maria.

Contact Us
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at +1 805 998 7993.
Contact Us