Introduction

A deviated nasal septum can cause a variety of problems, from difficulty breathing to frequent sinus infections. In New York City, there are numerous plastic hospitals and surgeons that offer septoplasty - the surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum. This article aims to comprehensively explore all the relevant aspects related to nasal septum deviation correction in NYC, including the procedures, the top surgeons and their clinics, and important factors to consider before undergoing the surgery.

Understanding Septoplasty

What is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum. Also referred to as septal reconstruction or submucous septal resection, this corrective surgery straightens the partition between the two nasal cavities known as the nasal septum so that it runs down the center of the nose in the ideal anatomical formation. When the nasal septum deviates from the center line and into one of the nasal cavities, it can impede airflow due to narrowing that occurs in the affected cavity.

Deviations of the septum can often lead to nasal obstruction and sinus issues. A deviated septum can be the result of an injury or can occur during childbirth. If the septum that functions as a wall between the two sides of the nose shifts towards one side at a degree greater than 50%, it can cause difficulty breathing. In some cases, this shift causes the inferior turbinate on the opposite side to enlarge, which is referred to as compensatory hypertrophy.

Steps in Septoplasty

Most septoplasty procedures are comprised of five steps:

1. Initial incision to expose the deviated septum
2. Identifying and releasing the internal structures that are the cause of angulations
3. Realigning the septum
4. Reimplanting crushed cartilage (when appropriate)
5. Closure of the incision

Surgeons will begin by exposing the bony and cartilaginous portions of the septum by elevating the mucosal lining that covers them. Then they will free the cartilage portion of the septum from its attachments to the bone, remove and/or reposition any cartilage or bone that is causing obstruction or narrowing of the airway, and realign the remaining portion of the bone and cartilage that has been preserved for structural support within the nasal cavity. Once the septum has been straightened, it is temporarily stabilized with a splint, small plastic tubes, or internal sutures.

Types of Septoplasty Approaches

There are several types of approaches for septoplasty:

• Closed: The most common type involving an internal incision to expose the cartilage.
• Open: A less common choice for deviated septum surgery which involves making an incision on the outside of the nose (hidden at the columella) and the inside. This more advanced approach is useful when the front part of the septum (caudal septum) badly deviates and a more extensive septoplasty procedure is required.
• Endoscopic: Some septoplasty surgeries can be performed with a minimally invasive endoscopic approach. This approach works well for a posterior - based septal deflection where an incision towards the front of the nose can be avoided.

Candidates for Septoplasty

This surgery is typically indicated for individuals with the following conditions:

• Recurrent rhinitis, a deviated septum, or other chronic sinusitis
• To alleviate recurrent epistaxis (nosebleeds) due to septal impaction or septal spur
• For cosmetic purposes to straighten a crooked or deviated nose
• Individuals experiencing significant nasal obstruction, which may be caused by a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or swollen turbinates
• People with recurring sinus infections, as a crooked septum can obstruct sinus drainage passages
• Patients after a traumatic injury to the nose that has caused a deviated septum or other damage obstructing nasal breathing

However, septoplasty should not be performed on patients presenting with acute sinus or nasal infection. Individuals with untreated diabetes, bleeding diathesis, or severe hypertension are not candidates for septoplasty.

Top Surgeons and Plastic Hospitals for Septoplasty in NYC

Dr. David Cangello - Cangello Plastic Surgery

Dr. David Cangello is an experienced plastic surgeon who offers septoplasty in NYC. He tailors each septoplasty to the individual patient. His approach involves making an incision on the lower portion of the septum and working through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage targeted in the procedure. He will determine the method (closed, open, or endoscopic) used for each patient depending on their unique anatomy and needs. Patients can contact him at (646) 665 - 4222 to schedule a consultation.

Multiple Surgeons on WebMD - Various Practices

WebMD lists numerous doctors in New York, NY who treat deviated nasal septum. For example:

There are many other surgeons listed on WebMD, with details about their experience, awards, and patient reviews to help patients make an informed decision.

Multiple Doctors on Healthgrades - New York

Healthgrades found 970 doctors who perform nasal septum surgery in New York. Some of the highly - rated ones include:

Dr. M. Zakir Sabry - Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center

At Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center, Dr. M. Zakir Sabry offers septoplasty to correct deviated septums and improve breathing. He has been recognized as a “top doctor” since 2005. The cost of septoplasty in nyc at this center ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, with an average of nearly $10,000. The center is an out - of - network provider for most insurance plans, but the staff helps patients navigate their benefits.

Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner - Klausner Institute

Double - board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner at the Klausner Institute offers septoplasty in New York City and Manhattan. She has performed countless successful procedures and creates custom treatment plans for each patient. Deviated septum repair surgery here is an outpatient procedure, with swelling typically subsiding after about three days, and most patients able to return to daily activities after 2 - 3 weeks. Full recovery can take between 1 - 3 months.

NYU Langone Health

NYU Langone specialists, including otolaryngologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons, can perform surgery to straighten the septum. They use minimally invasive techniques and perform surgery in an outpatient setting. Procedures they offer include septoplasty, septorhinoplasty, submucosal resection, and turbinate outfracture. If the results of diagnostic imaging tests indicate other structural abnormalities, they address those as well.

Dr. Gary Linkov - City Facial Plastics

Dr. Gary Linkov at City Facial Plastics in Manhattan offers septoplasty to restore the shape and function of the nasal passages. He is a double - board - certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery. The data suggests a septoplasty satisfaction rate of about 85% in his practice, mainly due to optimizing patient selection.

Dr. Mourad - Mourad NYC

Dr. Mourad specializes in nasal conditions and offers deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) in New York City. The healthcare facility at Mourad NYC prioritizes personalized care, encompassing both functional and aesthetic aspects of nasal health. The average cost of deviated septum facial plastic surgery in New York City here can range from approximately $4,000 to $10,000, but the actual cost can vary.

Benefits of Septoplasty

Improved Breathing

Septoplasty helps improve breathing by straightening the septum to allow for better airflow through the nasal passages. Patients can significantly improve their quality of life by avoiding the discomfort and stress associated with congestion in the nose.

Reduced Sinus Infections

A deviated septum may obstruct the sinus drainage pathways, leading to more frequent sinus infections. During septoplasty surgery, the crooked portions are repositioned, allowing proper mucus removal. This helps prevent mucus buildup and sinus infections.

Better Sleep Quality

Difficulty breathing through a blocked nasal airway can disrupt sleep and cause chronic fatigue. After septoplasty surgery, improved airflow capacity at night allows patients to enjoy deeper, more restorative rest.

Recovery and Risks

Recovery

The recovery process after septoplasty varies among patients. Generally:

• First 24 hours: Gauze packing is placed in each nasal passage to absorb drainage and prevent bleeding. Pain medication is prescribed, and patients should keep their heads elevated to reduce swelling.
• Week 1: The nose packing is usually removed within several days. Discomfort and nasal congestion are still common, and patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity. A follow - up appointment is usually scheduled by the end of the week.
• Weeks 2 - 4: Most of the discomfort should subside. Drainage, congestion, and minor bleeding may still occur. Splints are usually removed at the beginning of the second week. Regular activity may gradually resume, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a month.
• Long - term recovery: It can take up to a year for the nose to stabilize and adjust completely. The tissues, membranes, blood vessels, and nerves inside the nasal passages continue to recuperate for several months.

Risks

Although septoplasty is a common surgical procedure with a very low risk of complications when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some potential risks:

• Bleeding
• Septal hematoma
• Septal perforation
• Hyposmia (decreased sense of smell)
• Infection
• Poor scarring
• Undesirable aesthetic result
• Upper dental numbness
• Persistent or relapse of deviation
• Saddle nose (bridge collapse)
• Persistent nasal congestion

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of septoplasty in NYC can vary widely. It can range from approximately $4,000 to $15,000, depending on factors such as the surgeon's fees, hospital or facility charges, and anesthesia expenses. Most deviated septum surgery is covered by insurance, especially when it serves a necessary and functional purpose like improving breathing. However, certain septoplasty doctors may not be in - network providers. Patients should check with their insurance companies and the surgical facilities to understand their financial responsibilities.

Conclusion

In New York City, there are a plethora of options for patients seeking nasal septum deviation correction. From well - established plastic hospitals to highly experienced individual surgeons, patients have access to a wide range of expertise. Septoplasty can bring about significant improvements in breathing, reduce sinus infections, and enhance sleep quality. However, it is crucial for patients to thoroughly research the available options, understand the procedure, recovery process, and associated risks. They should also have detailed discussions with potential surgeons to ensure that they are making the best decision for their health and well - being.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to a deviated septum, don't hesitate to take the first step. Schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons in NYC mentioned in this article. By addressing the issue, you can potentially improve your quality of life and enjoy better nasal health.