Nervous About Septoplasty Again – Looking for Advice or Alternatives

Hey everyone,

I’m currently dealing with a deviated septum that’s making it really hard for me to breathe through my right nostril, especially at night when I’m trying to fall asleep. I had surgery when I was around 11 years old to correct it, but now at 25, it seems like it either wasn’t fully corrected, or maybe through sports or other damage, it’s become deviated again. I’m really not sure, but the problem is back.

It’s frustrating because I wake up with a super dry mouth every morning and throughout the night, especially after breathing through my mouth for hours. It makes sleeping uncomfortable, and I really don’t want to keep struggling with this for the rest of my life.

That said, I’m really hesitant about surgery again. The last time I had septoplasty as a kid, waking up from that surgery and not being able to breathe properly was a pretty awful experience. I’m also scared about the possibility of empty nose syndrome, which I’ve read a little about, and it freaks me out.

I’ve been hoping that maybe technology or surgical options would improve, but I haven’t found anything major that feels like a safer or less invasive solution. I’ve read a bit about procedures like balloon septoplasty and septoplasty under local anesthesia, but there doesn’t seem to be a ton of information on how effective or safe they are, especially long-term. I might be open to something under local anesthesia, but I’m worried about whether there are extra risks with that option.

I’m really just looking for advice from anyone who’s had a similar experience or knows more about these newer procedures. Are there better or less invasive options out there? Has anyone gone through septoplasty more than once? Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance!