Septal buttons for septal perforation
A hole in the nasal septum (a septal perforation) can cause troublesome symptoms such as crusting, nosebleeds, whistling, dryness and a blocked sensation when breathing. While surgical repair is an option for some patients, it is not always suitable or necessary.
For many people, a septal button offers a simple, effective non-surgical solution.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital, and Medicana Winchester, we regularly assess patients with septal perforations and advise whether a septal button is the right option.
👃 What Is a Septal Button?
A septal button is a soft silicone device designed to plug the hole in the nasal septum.
It sits comfortably between both sides of the nose, sealing the perforation while allowing normal airflow around it.
Septal buttons do not close the hole permanently, but they can significantly reduce symptoms.
🩺 Who Might Benefit from a Septal Button?
A septal button may be recommended if you have:
Nasal crusting or dryness
Recurrent nosebleeds
Whistling when breathing
A sensation of nasal blockage
Symptoms from a small to medium septal perforation
A perforation following previous nasal surgery
Medical conditions that make surgery less suitable
It is often used when:
Surgery is not appropriate
Symptoms are bothersome but not severe
A trial of symptom relief is preferred before surgery
⚙️ How Is a Septal Button Fitted?
Septal button insertion is a quick outpatient procedure, usually performed under local anaesthetic.
The process typically involves:
Examination of the nose
Measurement of the perforation
Selection of the correct button size
Gentle insertion through the nostril
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and can return to normal activities the same day.
🌟 Benefits of a Septal Button
Non-surgical treatment
Immediate symptom relief
Reduces crusting and bleeding
Stops nasal whistling
Can be removed if not tolerated
No general anaesthetic required
Many patients notice a significant improvement in comfort and breathing within days.
⚠️ Are There Any Downsides?
While septal buttons are helpful for many patients, they are not suitable for everyone.
Possible issues include:
Awareness of the button initially
Mild irritation or mucus build-up
Rare displacement (usually correctable)
Most problems can be managed with simple aftercare advice.
🧠 Septal Button vs Surgical Repair
Your ENT consultant will discuss both options and recommend the most appropriate approach based on your symptoms, anatomy and overall health.
🏥 Expert Care Across Hampshire
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital, and Medicana Winchester, we offer:
Consultant-led assessment
Expertise in septal perforation management
Septal button fitting and follow-up
Advice on surgical repair when appropriate
Convenient for patients from Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury, Fareham, Romsey and Andover.
👉 If you’ve been diagnosed with a septal perforation or are struggling with nasal crusting or bleeding, contact Hampshire ENT Clinics or Medicana Winchester to discuss whether a septal button could help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Septal Buttons for Septal Perforation
What is a septal perforation?
A septal perforation is a hole in the nasal septum—the thin wall that separates the two sides of the nose. It can lead to symptoms such as crusting, dryness, nosebleeds, whistling sounds, and a blocked or uncomfortable sensation when breathing.
What is a septal button?
A septal button is a soft silicone device designed to sit across the perforation and seal the hole. It does not permanently close the perforation but can significantly reduce symptoms by restoring more normal airflow and moisture within the nose.
How does a septal button help symptoms?
By sealing the perforation, a septal button can:
Reduce nasal crusting and dryness
Decrease nosebleeds
Stop whistling noises when breathing
Improve airflow comfort
Many patients notice improvement almost immediately.
Is a septal button an alternative to surgery?
Yes. A septal button is a non-surgical alternative to septal perforation repair. It is often recommended when surgery is not suitable, not desired, or when symptoms are moderate rather than severe.
Who is a good candidate for a septal button?
Septal buttons are most suitable for patients with:
Small to medium-sized septal perforations
Troublesome symptoms such as crusting or bleeding
Previous nasal surgery
Medical conditions that make surgery higher risk
A preference to avoid surgery
How is a septal button fitted?
Fitting is usually performed as a quick outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic. The perforation is measured, and an appropriately sized button is gently inserted through the nostril. Most patients go home the same day.
Is septal button insertion painful?
The procedure is generally well tolerated. Some pressure or mild discomfort may be felt during fitting, but this is usually brief.
Can a septal button be removed?
Yes. One advantage of a septal button is that it is reversible. If it is not tolerated or if surgical repair is later planned, the button can be removed.
Are there any side effects or downsides?
Some patients notice:
Awareness of the button initially
Mild irritation or mucus build-up
Rare displacement
These issues are usually minor and manageable with simple aftercare advice.
Will a septal button cure the perforation?
No. A septal button does not close the hole permanently. It is a symptom-control solution, not a cure. Surgical repair is required for permanent closure.
Is a septal button suitable for large perforations?
Septal buttons are less effective for very large perforations. Your ENT consultant will advise whether a button or surgical repair is more appropriate.
How do I choose between a septal button and surgery?
This depends on:
Size and location of the perforation
Severity of symptoms
Overall health and surgical suitability
Personal preference
Your ENT specialist will discuss both options and recommend the most appropriate approach.
Where can I be assessed and treated?
Assessment and septal button fitting are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, The Harbour Suite at Queen Alexandra Hospital, and Medicana Winchester, caring for patients across Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.