Introduction to Well - Known Hospitals for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction Surgery in New York City
A deviated septum can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, causing issues such as breathing difficulties, snoring, sinus infections, and sleep apnea. In New York City, there are several renowned hospitals and surgeons specializing in nasal septum deviation correction surgery. This article will introduce you to some of the top options and provide in - depth information about the procedures, benefits, risks, and recovery.
What is a Deviated Septum?
The nasal septum is a thin strip of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal passage into two cavities. When it is displaced to one side, either from birth or due to an injury, it is called a deviated septum. A slightly deviated septum is common and may not cause health problems for most people. However, a more severe deviation can obstruct airflow, impede breathing through the nose, cause snoring, and block the sinuses from draining (NYU Langone Health).
Causes of a Deviated Septum
- Congenital Development: Some people are born with a deviated septum due to genetic factors or developmental variations. This misalignment may become more noticeable during adolescence as facial features continue to develop, often leading to progressive breathing difficulties (Dr. Rizk).
- Facial Trauma: Physical impacts from sports injuries, accidents, or falls can cause immediate septal deviation. These injuries often require specialized correction to restore both alignment and proper airflow (Dr. Rizk).
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions can affect septal alignment, such as nasal polyps causing structural changes, inflammatory processes affecting nasal tissues, chronic sinus infections leading to gradual deviation, and rarely, tumors causing septal displacement (Dr. Rizk).
Symptoms of a Deviated Septum
- Difficulty breathing, which can manifest as extra effort for inhalation of air and loud snoring at night.
- Feeling permanently congested, with frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, and headaches.
- Pain concentrated around the nose, post - nasal drip, sleep apnea, and congestion that is more prevalent in a single nostril (Dr. Westreich).
Well - Known Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Septum Deviation Correction
NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone's otolaryngologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons are experts in treating deviated septums. They offer a variety of minimally invasive outpatient procedures to reposition the septum and address other causes of nasal obstruction.
Surgical Procedures at NYU Langone
- Septoplasty: A procedure to center the septum, creating two nasal passages that are the same size. A surgeon uses small surgical instruments to make an incision in the tissue lining the septum, straightens or repositions the deviated section, and may remove small pieces of cartilage or bone if damaged. This corrects any airflow disturbance caused by a deviated septum (NYU Langone Health).
- Septorhinoplasty: If an injury such as a fracture is the cause of a nasal obstruction, or if surgery to reposition the septum changes the appearance of the nose, specialists at NYU Langone work with facial reconstructive plastic surgeons to perform septorhinoplasty. They eliminate the nasal obstruction and use cosmetic techniques to ensure the nose looks natural. The surgeons perform the procedure through the nostrils, correct the position of the septum, and address other structural problems. They may also remove cartilage from the septum and place it in other areas to improve breathing or alter the shape of the nose. In addition, if a deviated septum has caused sinus problems, sinus surgery may be performed along with septorhinoplasty (NYU Langone Health).
- Submucosal Resection: A surgeon removes small sections of the septum, the turbinates, or both to open the nasal passages. The surgeon accesses the septum or turbinates through the nostrils and makes a small incision in the layer of soft tissue lining the nasal passage. A laser or a microdebrider may be used to reduce the size of turbinates (NYU Langone Health).
- Turbinate Outfracture: In addition to a submucosal resection or laser procedure, surgeons may permanently reposition the turbinates to provide more space in the nasal passages. This involves breaking the thin bones of the turbinates to reposition them (NYU Langone Health).
Dr. Philip Miller
Dr. Philip Miller specializes in septoplasty in New York City and has over 20 years of experience performing this type of surgery. His office is located at 60 E. 56th & Park, New York, New York 10022.
Septoplasty with Dr. Philip Miller
- Procedure: The septoplasty procedure allows a facial plastic surgeon to realign the wall between the two nostrils – the septum – to achieve balance and symmetry within the two nasal cavities. The surgeon can usually realign the septum into the midline using incisions well - hidden within the nostrils. The procedure begins with separating the septum from the mucosa lining surrounding it, repositioning the septum, and then replacing the mucosa lining. The surgery is performed under anesthesia in his state - of - the - art, accredited surgical suite in his NYC office and takes between 60 to 90 minutes. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day (Dr. Philip Miller).
- Benefits: There are numerous benefits, including improved breathing, better sleep, fewer sinus infections, and improved senses of smell and taste. By clearing the nasal passages, patients can enjoy uninterrupted breathing patterns. Repaired inner nasal structures can also lead to more restful nights by reducing snoring and sleep apnea. Creating an open airway improves sinus drainage and reduces the incidence of sinus infections. Realigning the nasal passageways can awaken the senses of smell and taste (Dr. Philip Miller).
- Risks: While many of the risks associated with septoplasty can be minimized in the hands of a highly skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Miller, risk can never be 100% eliminated. Certain factors beyond his control can sometimes create complications. During the consultation, Dr. Miller will explain the risks and ask patients to sign consent forms (Dr. Philip Miller).
- Recovery: To ensure a good recovery, patients should follow all of Dr. Miller's orders. They can also elevate their head at night using extra pillows to keep swelling down, avoid strenuous activity for at least the first two weeks, and avoid pulling clothing over their head. Patients can usually return to work and daily activities within a few days but should refrain from strenuous physical activity for 2 - 3 weeks. The healing process continues for up to one year as cartilage and nasal tissue settle into their new shape (Dr. Philip Miller).
Dr. David Cangello
Dr. David Cangello is a plastic surgeon who offers septoplasty in New York City. You can contact him at (646) 665 - 4222 to schedule a consultation.
Septoplasty with Dr. David Cangello
- Procedure: Septoplasty is a nasal surgery that can repair and/or correct the passageways in the nose, making it easier to breathe. It can also be performed to straighten a crooked or deviated nose. During the operation, generally done under general anesthesia, Dr. Cangello usually makes an incision on the lower portion of the septum (caudal septum) and works through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage targeted in the procedure. Most septoplasty procedures are comprised of five steps: initial incision to expose the deviated septum, identifying and releasing the internal structures causing angulations, realigning the septum, reimplanting crushed cartilage (when appropriate), and closure of the incision. After straightening the septum, he will temporarily stabilize it with a splint, small plastic tubes, or internal sutures. The method (closed or open technique or via an endoscope) is determined based on the patient's unique anatomy and needs (Dr. David Cangello).
- Candidates: This surgery is typically indicated for individuals with recurrent rhinitis, a deviated septum, or other chronic sinusitis. It can also be performed to alleviate recurrent epistaxis (nosebleeds) due to septal impaction or septal spur and for cosmetic purposes to straighten a crooked or deviated nose. However, it should not be performed on patients presenting with acute sinus or nasal infection, or those with untreated diabetes, bleeding diathesis, or severe hypertension (Dr. David Cangello).
- Risks and Recovery: Septoplasty is a common surgical procedure with a very low risk of complications when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon. Rare complications such as bleeding, septal hematoma, septal perforation, and hyposmia (decreased sense of smell) have been reported. During recovery, patients can experience mild to moderate tenderness or pain at the front of the nose, stuffiness due to swelling, and nasal drainage of blood and mucous. Swelling and congestion inside the nose usually last between two and three days, and drainage may continue for up to five days. Dr. Cangello may prescribe a pain reliever for the first day following surgery and a saline spray or irrigation treatment several times per day for the week following surgery. Full recovery generally takes one to two months (Dr. David Cangello).
Dr. Rizk
Dr. Rizk is considered one of the best facial plastic surgeons for treating deviated septum. He uses advanced septoplasty techniques and technologies to ensure optimal, natural - looking results.
Septoplasty with Dr. Rizk
- Procedure: Before surgery, Dr. Rizk conducts a detailed imaging analysis to measure the septal deviation and surrounding nasal structures. The procedure includes minimally invasive access through hidden incisions, careful measurement of nasal angles and rotation, precise septal cartilage repositioning, strategic bone realignment when needed, preservation of vital support structures, and integration of aesthetic refinements if desired. His approach combines precise measurements to ensure optimal breathing function while maintaining facial harmony. He performs minimally invasive deviated septum nose job at his Park Avenue facility, and for patients seeking both functional and aesthetic improvements, he can enhance the overall nasal appearance during the same procedure (Dr. Rizk).
- Recovery: Recovery involves wearing a protective splint for about a week. Most patients return to work within 7 - 10 days. While initial breathing improvement is noticeable immediately, complete deviated septum operation recovery takes several months as internal healing continues (Dr. Rizk).
Dr. Westreich
Dr. Westreich is double - board certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology. He has extensive knowledge of the facial anatomy and works exclusively with the functional and aesthetic properties of the nose.
Septoplasty with Dr. Westreich
- Procedure: During septoplasty, Dr. Westreich makes a small incision on the inside of the nose to remove the extra cartilage and/or bone confining the airflow. The procedure is typically complete in less than two hours, and the patient is placed under local or general anesthesia depending on the extensiveness of the work. Sometimes, he strategically places splints inside the nose to promote stabilization during the healing process. It is also common for patients to seek a simultaneous rhinoplasty alongside the deviated nose surgery (Dr. Westreich).
- Cost: The cost of a deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) can often be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's insurance plan and whether it can be proven that the deviated septum is impairing the patient's quality of life. If cosmetic improvements are desired, additional out - of - pocket costs will apply. The exact cost varies based on the severity of the deviated septum and can be determined at the consultation (Dr. Westreich).
- Recovery: After surgery, swelling and bruising are normal and should subside as recovery progresses. Patients will have a follow - up appointment with Dr. Westreich one week after surgery, during which he will evaluate the nose, clean any dried blood, and remove any nasal packing or stitches. For the best results, patients should follow all post - operative instructions, such as sleeping with extra pillows, blowing the nose gently, and avoiding strenuous physical activity for at least two weeks. They will start to notice a substantial improvement in their breathing in the weeks and months following the surgery (Dr. Westreich).
Other Considerations
Choosing a Surgeon
When choosing a surgeon for nasal septum deviation correction surgery, it is important to consider their experience, board certification, and patient reviews. Look for surgeons who are specialized in otolaryngology or facial plastic surgery and have a proven track record of successful surgeries. It is also advisable to schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns, expectations, and the surgical process in detail.
Insurance Coverage
As mentioned earlier, the cost of septoplasty may be covered by insurance if it can be proven that the deviated septum is causing significant health problems and is a medical necessity. However, coverage can vary depending on the insurance plan. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider before the surgery to understand the extent of coverage and any pre - authorization requirements.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several well - known hospitals and highly skilled surgeons specializing in nasal septum deviation correction surgery. Whether you choose NYU Langone Health, or consult with surgeons like Dr. Philip Miller, Dr. David Cangello, Dr. Rizk, or Dr. Westreich, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Each of these institutions and surgeons offers comprehensive treatment options, personalized care, and advanced surgical techniques. The benefits of correcting a deviated septum, such as improved breathing, better sleep, and reduced sinus infections, can significantly enhance your quality of life.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a deviated septum, don't hesitate to take action. Schedule a consultation with one of the recommended surgeons in New York City. Explore your treatment options, and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable life. Share this article with others who may be suffering from similar issues, and encourage them to seek professional help.