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A deviated septum is a common condition that can affect both nasal function and, in some cases, the external appearance of the nose. The septum is the thin wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two nasal passages. When it is displaced or off-centre, it can restrict airflow and lead to a range of symptoms.
For some individuals, a deviated septum may go unnoticed. For others, it can contribute to ongoing nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, snoring or recurrent sinus issues. The severity of symptoms often depends on the degree of deviation and how it affects airflow within the nose.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, treatment for a deviated septum begins with a comprehensive assessment of both nasal function and structure, with each treatment plan tailored to the individual.
About
What is a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum is displaced to one side, rather than sitting centrally between the nostrils. This can result in one nasal passage being narrower than the other, affecting airflow and nasal function.
In some cases, the deviation is mild and causes little to no symptoms. In others, it can significantly impact breathing, particularly during exercise or sleep. A deviated septum may also contribute to dryness, congestion or frequent sinus infections.
Causes
What Causes a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum can develop due to a range of structural, developmental and external factors. In many cases, it is the result of natural anatomy, while in others, it may occur following trauma or changes over time. The underlying cause often influences both the severity of the deviation and the symptoms experienced.
Congenital (Present from Birth)
Many individuals are born with a deviated septum, which develops as part of their natural facial structure. During early growth, the cartilage and bone that form the nasal septum may not align perfectly, resulting in a deviation that can become more noticeable over time. In these cases, the condition is often longstanding, even if symptoms only appear later in life.
Nasal Injury or Trauma
Injury to the nose, such as from sports, accidents or impact, can displace the septum. It is one of the most common causes of a deviated septum. Trauma can shift the septum out of alignment or cause irregular healing, leading to obstruction within the nasal passages. Even relatively minor injuries, particularly if untreated, can result in structural changes that become more apparent over time.
Growth and Development
As the face matures, the nasal structures continue to develop. Uneven growth between the cartilage and bone can contribute to a septal deviation becoming more pronounced during adolescence or early adulthood. This may explain why some individuals only begin to notice symptoms later, despite having an underlying deviation for many years.
Age-Related Changes
Over time, the cartilage within the nose can weaken, shift or change shape. These subtle changes may shift the septum or exaggerate an existing deviation. In addition, age-related changes to surrounding tissues can make symptoms such as nasal blockage or airflow restriction more noticeable.
Treatment
When to Consider Professional Treatment for a Deviated Septum?
Treatment may be appropriate when a deviated septum begins to affect breathing, sleep quality or overall comfort. Common signs include persistent nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through one side of the nose, frequent sinus infections or disrupted sleep.
While mild cases may be managed conservatively, structural issues within the nose cannot be corrected with topical treatments alone. A professional assessment allows for a clear understanding of the underlying cause and whether surgical correction is appropriate.
Options
Deviated Septum Treatment at Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Treatment for a deviated septum is tailored to the individual, depending on the severity of the deviation and whether aesthetic concerns are also present. Mr Paul Wilson uses advanced surgical techniques to restore function while maintaining or improving nasal balance.
Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects the position of the septum and restores normal airflow through the nasal passages. During the procedure, the septum is carefully reshaped, straightened and repositioned to reduce obstruction.
This approach focuses solely on function and is typically recommended for patients with symptoms such as chronic nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through one nostril, snoring, or recurrent sinus infections. As septoplasty is performed internally, it does not usually alter the external appearance of the nose. Often trimming of the inferior turbinates is also required to improve the airflow.
Recovery is generally straightforward, with most patients noticing a gradual improvement in breathing as swelling subsides and the nasal passages stabilise.
Septorhinoplasty
Septorhinoplasty combines functional correction with aesthetic refinement, offering a more comprehensive approach for patients with both breathing concerns and visible nasal irregularities.
In addition to straightening the septum, this procedure allows for precise reshaping of the external structure, addressing concerns such as asymmetry, deviation of the nasal bridge or imbalance in facial proportions. By treating both the internal and external structure in a single procedure, septorhinoplasty provides a cohesive and long-lasting result.
This approach is particularly suitable for individuals who want to improve both their breathing and the appearance of their nose, with outcomes tailored to complement their overall facial features.
Choose Us
Why Choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics for Deviated Septum Treatment?
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, your care is grounded in safety, expertise and surgical integrity. Surgeries are performed by Mr Paul Wilson, an accredited Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with dual qualifications in medicine and dentistry.
His background in complex reconstructive surgery ensures a meticulous, anatomically driven approach, where patient safety and functional outcomes are always prioritised. Every treatment plan is personalised and carefully planned using advanced imaging technology to provide a clear, realistic understanding of what can be achieved.
From your initial consultation through to recovery, you are supported with a transparent, considered approach that focuses on realistic expectations rather than overpromising outcomes. Mr Wilson’s aesthetic philosophy centres on restoring and refining rather than altering, ensuring results that feel balanced and authentically you. Supported by a dedicated team, you can expect a seamless and attentive patient experience, where your concerns are heard, your questions are answered, and your care is tailored at every stage of your journey.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a deviated septum look like?
A deviated septum is not always visible externally. In many cases, the deviation occurs internally and does not significantly affect the nose’s outward appearance. However, in more pronounced cases, it may cause the nose to appear slightly crooked, uneven or asymmetrical. For most people, symptoms such as difficulty breathing through one side of the nose are more noticeable than any visual change.
What causes a deviated septum?
A deviated septum can be present from birth due to natural anatomical development or occur later as a result of injury to the nose. Trauma, such as from sports or accidents, can shift the septum out of alignment. In some cases, the deviation may become more noticeable over time as the nasal structures change with growth or ageing.
How much does deviated septum surgery cost?
The cost of treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether septoplasty or septorhinoplasty is required. Factors such as surgical time, individual anatomy and whether functional and aesthetic concerns are addressed together can all influence the overall price. A personalised quote will be provided following consultation, with a clear breakdown of all associated costs.
Can I test for a deviated septum at home?
While a definitive diagnosis requires a clinical examination, certain signs may suggest a deviated septum. These include consistently blocked airflow on one side of the nose, difficulty breathing through one nostril or a noticeable difference in airflow when alternating sides. Some individuals also find temporary relief by manually adjusting the nose’s position; however, a specialist assessment is needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity.
Do I always need surgery for a deviated septum?
Not necessarily. Mild cases may be managed with non-surgical treatments such as nasal sprays or lifestyle adjustments to reduce symptoms. Surgery is typically considered when symptoms are persistent, impact daily life or do not respond to conservative management. A consultation allows for a thorough assessment to determine whether surgical correction is the most appropriate option.
Schedule your consultation
Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics for a combination of surgical expertise, honest guidance and a highly personalised approach to care. To get started, book a consultation where Mr Wilson will assess your concerns, discuss your goals and determine whether septoplasty or septorhinoplasty is the most appropriate option for you.
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Open Preservation Rhinoplasty | Before & After
This patient presented for a consultation with both functional and aesthetic concerns.
She had experienced several previous nasal injuries, including a horse-riding accident, a netball incident, and a facial injury. Although she had undergone a septoplasty in 2022, she was still experiencing intermittent breathing difficulties, shifting between the right and left sides.
Aesthetically, her primary concerns were a dorsal hump and the droopiness of her nasal tip.
On assessment, her nose was reasonably straight, with a dorsal hump created by a combination of prominent nasal bones and increased septal height. There was also slight nostril asymmetry and some external valve collapse on the right side, meaning the outer wall of the nostril could collapse slightly during sharp, deep breathing.
A CT scan revealed a relatively straight septum, with only a small posterior deviation, clear sinuses, and normal-sized turbinates.
An open preservation rhinoplasty was performed.
The plan was to refine the dorsal hump, create a gentle curve to the nose, improve the tip position, and achieve as much symmetry as possible while respecting the patient`s existing anatomy.
Rhinoplasty planning is never about chasing perfection. The aim is to make a considered improvement that looks balanced, functions well, and remains in keeping with the rest of the face.
The result shown here is part of that process, with healing continuing over time.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
A rhinoplasty consultation is not just about examining the nose.
It is about understanding the patient, their anatomy, their breathing, and their reasons for considering surgery.
In this video, Mr Wilson explains what happens during a rhinoplasty consultation at Paul Wilson Aesthetics.
Patients are seen personally by Mr Wilson at Northwood Hospital in Bristol. The consultation includes a full medical history, a discussion about aesthetic concerns, breathing and functional symptoms, previous injuries or surgery, and the support available at home after the procedure.
The nose is then carefully assessed, as rhinoplasty always addresses both form and function.
Two-dimensional photographs are taken for medical records, and 3D Vectra imaging may also be used to aid in planning the procedure. This allows Mr Wilson and the patient to visually discuss possible changes and ensure expectations are aligned before surgery.
The aim is not to promise a precise, screen-generated result.
It is to understand what the patient hopes to achieve, what is surgically attainable, and how to meticulously plan the operation.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Open Septorhinoplasty | Before & After
This patient had previously undergone rhinoplasty and otoplasty at the age of 23, which included the reduction of a dorsal hump.
Over time, he began to notice increasing droopiness of the nasal tip. He had also broken his nose as a child during gymnastics, although his breathing was otherwise good.
On assessment, he presented with a long, straight nose and a dependent, droopy, and slightly asymmetric tip. There was a mild deviation of the nose to the left, but no remaining bony hump. The septum appeared straight.
One of the key findings was the acute angle between the base of the nose and the upper lip. Simply lifting the tip helped to improve the appearance of the nose and also made it appear straighter.
In this case, an open septorhinoplasty was performed under general anaesthetic.
Revision rhinoplasty requires careful planning, particularly when the nose has been previously operated on. The existing structure, scar tissue, tip support, and previous surgical changes all need to be considered before any further refinement is made.
The aim was to improve tip position and support, address the asymmetry, and create a more balanced nasal profile while working with the patient`s existing anatomy.
The result shown here is part of that process, with healing continuing over time.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
A bump on the bridge of the nose can change the entire facial profile.
For many patients, a dorsal hump is the feature they notice most in side-profile photos or from certain angles. It may be part of the natural nasal structure, or it may appear more pronounced after trauma or injury.
However, a dorsal hump is never treated as just a "bump".
The bridge, tip, septum, nasal bones, and facial proportions all need to be assessed together before any surgical plan is made.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, rhinoplasty planning focuses on refining the nasal profile in a way that remains balanced with the individual face.
Depending on the anatomy, this may involve preservation rhinoplasty or structural rhinoplasty.
The aim is not a perfect nose.
It is a considered, proportionate result that suits the patient.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #dorsalhump #rhinoplastybristol #preservationrhinoplasty #northwoodhospital
When rhinoplasty does not go as expected, subsequent operations are rarely simple.
Revision rhinoplasty often involves navigating scar tissue, altered anatomy, reduced cartilage support, and the outcomes of previous surgery.
In this reel, Mr Wilson explains why patients seek him out for revision rhinoplasty and why this type of surgery demands meticulous planning, extensive experience, and candid discussions.
Additional support may sometimes be required, utilising cartilage from the ear or rib, fascia, or fat grafting.
This also underscores the importance of aftercare. Should concerns arise post-surgery, patients need assurance that they will receive proper review, support, and care.
Revision rhinoplasty is not merely about re-shaping the nose.
It involves comprehending previous interventions, assessing current possibilities, and meticulously planning the subsequent stage.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #revisionrhinoplasty #rhinoplastysurgery #bristolplasticsurgeon #northwoodhospital
A blocked nose is not always "just congestion".
A deviated septum can make one side of the nose feel constantly blocked, affect airflow, and make breathing feel uneven.
The septum is the internal wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two nasal passages. When it sits off-centre, one side may become narrower, which can make breathing more difficult.
It is not always visible from the outside.
This is why assessment matters. The nose needs to be examined for both structure and function, especially when symptoms are linked with previous injury, nasal asymmetry, or ongoing obstruction.
Treatment may involve septoplasty to improve airflow, or septorhinoplasty when breathing concerns and external nasal shape need to be addressed together.
The aim is to understand what is causing the obstruction and choose the most suitable approach for the individual patient.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty | Before & After
This young patient desired refinement of her nasal profile and tip, aiming for a result that remained balanced with her facial features.
Her primary concerns included a prominent dorsum and a bulbous nasal tip.
In this case, an open tip rhinoplasty was performed, utilising piezo-electric surgery for surface reduction of the dorsum. A septal projection graft was also employed to support and define the nasal tip.
Piezo-electric surgery facilitates highly precise work on the nasal bones. This is particularly beneficial when reshaping the bridge of the nose, as it permits controlled refinement while preserving crucial surrounding structures.
The tip also necessitated meticulous planning. A bulbous tip is not merely reduced; it requires reshaping and support to ensure the final result remains stable as the nose heals.
This is where dorsal preservation rhinoplasty and tip definition must work in conjunction. The objective is not to create an entirely different nose, but to refine the existing structure in a manner that complements the individual`s face.
The result displayed here represents an stage of that process, with healing progressing over time.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #dorsalpreservationrhinoplasty #rhinoplastybristol #piezoelectricsurgery #northwoodhospital
Rhinoplasty is not a single technique.
It is a series of decisions.
In this reel, Mr Wilson explains the difference between structural rhinoplasty and preservation rhinoplasty, and why preservation techniques have become such a valuable option in suitable primary cases.
The principle is simple: where possible, preserve the natural bridge of the nose rather than dismantling and rebuilding it.
For the right patient, this can allow refinement of the nasal profile while maintaining more of the existing nasal structure.
However, suitability is crucial.
If the nose is very crooked, has been previously broken, or the patient is concerned about the frontal view, a structural or hybrid approach may be more appropriate.
That is why consultation and assessment are so important.
The technique should fit the patient, not the other way around.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
A second rhinoplasty is not simply a repeat of the first.
Revision rhinoplasty often means working with a nose that has already healed, scarred, and changed after previous surgery.
Sometimes the concern is visible; sometimes it is functional; often, it is both.
The nose may need more support, better definition, improved symmetry, or correction of breathing issues.
In some cases, grafting may be required to rebuild or strengthen areas that no longer have adequate support.
This is why secondary rhinoplasty needs time, experience, and a very clear plan.
The goal is not to chase perfection.
It is to make the next operation as careful, realistic, and considered as possible.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #revisionrhinoplasty #secondaryrhinoplasty #rhinoplastysurgery #northwoodhospital
Preservation Rhinoplasty with Septoplasty | Before & After
This patient presented with a previously fractured septum, leading to breathing difficulties, a dorsal hump, and a bulbous nasal tip.
In such cases, rhinoplasty extends beyond merely altering the external appearance of the nose; the internal structure is equally crucial.
The procedure performed was a preservation rhinoplasty with septoplasty. The objective was to enhance the shape of the nose while simultaneously addressing the septum, which had been impacting her breathing.
A preservation approach involves meticulously working with the existing nasal structure rather than simply excising tissue. The bridge, tip, septum, and overall support of the nose all require integrated consideration.
What has been particularly gratifying in this case is the post-operative feedback from the patient. She expressed continued satisfaction with her result, consistently recommends Mr Wilson, and feels the surgery made a significant difference to her. She also noted that while she occasionally experiences some breathing difficulty, she was informed that her nose had been considerably improved from its initial state.
Such feedback is always valued, as rhinoplasty is a protracted process. The outcome encompasses not only the day of surgery but also the planning, healing, trust, and long-term results.
Patient images and feedback shared with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #preservationrhinoplasty #septoplasty #rhinoplastybristol #northwoodhospital
Mommy Makeover | Mastopexy + Full Abdominoplasty
After two pregnancies, this patient was left with skin laxity and a change in shape to both her breasts and tummy — despite returning to a stable, healthy weight. She was happy with her breast volume but troubled by the drooping and excess skin, and by the loose skin and stretch marks across her abdomen.
We planned a combined approach:
🔹 Mastopexy (breast uplift) — excess skin removed and the nipple repositioned higher to lift and reshape the breast, while keeping her own natural volume, exactly as she wanted. This uses an “anchor” pattern scar.
🔹 Full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) — removal of the loose skin and stretch marks below the belly button, with repair of the separated tummy muscles (diastasis recti) that so commonly follow pregnancy.
Because she’s naturally slim and athletic, no liposuction was needed — tightening the muscle separation and removing the skin overhang simply revealed the toned, defined abdomen that was already there. She’s especially delighted with her new core definition. 💪
Every patient and every result is individual. Surgery carries risks, and a full consultation is essential to understand whether a procedure is right for you.
📍 Surgery by Paul Wilson @ Northwood Hospital, Bristol Consultations via the link in bio.
#MommyMakeover #Abdominoplasty #TummyTuck #Mastopexy #BreastUplift PlasticSurgery CosmeticSurgery BristolSurgeon PaulWilsonAesthetics NorthwoodHospital PostPregnancyBody DiastasisRecti
Breast Augmentation
A natural increase in volume — restoring shape after hypomastia
Hypomastia is the medical term for naturally underdeveloped breast tissue. It’s a recognised developmental variation, not a flaw — but for many women it affects how comfortable and confident they feel in their own body.
This patient, a mum of two with a completed family, had thought about augmentation for several years. Her request was simple and one I hear often: a natural, modest increase in volume and improved shape — not a dramatic change. On examination she had reduced upper-pole fullness in both breasts with good underlying symmetry.
Rather than reaching for a number, we planned this properly. Measurements, 2D and 3D imaging morphed to her chosen implant, external sizers tried on in clinic, and a home rice test to let her feel the volume for herself. Her choice: a 275cc round, moderate-profile Mentor micro-textured implant, placed subfascially through an inframammary incision — a plan designed to add soft upper-pole fullness in proportion to her petite frame.
You can see in the lateral and oblique views how the goal was balance, not bulk.
The psychological side matters just as much. In appropriately assessed patients, augmentation for hypomastia is consistently associated with improvements in body image, self-confidence and quality of life — and that outcome means as much to me as the surgical one.
Shared with this patient’s full consent.
Results vary from person to person. This is educational and not a recommendation to undergo surgery — any decision should follow a personal consultation.
📍 Address: 1400 Parkway North, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8YU (Northwood Hospital)
📞 Phone: +44 7480 125890
🌐 Website: paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
🕐 Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
#BreastAugmentationUK #Hypomastia #NaturalResults #PlasticSurgeon #BeforeAndAfter
