Introduction

A deviated nasal septum can cause a range of problems, from difficulty breathing to recurrent sinus issues and even aesthetic concerns. In New York City, there are numerous doctors who specialize in nasal septum deviation correction surgery, also known as septoplasty. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking of these doctors and compare the plastic surgery results they achieve. We will also delve into the details of septoplasty, including the procedure, candidates, risks, and recovery, to help you make an informed decision when choosing a doctor for your nasal septum correction surgery.

Understanding Nasal Septum Deviation and Septoplasty

What is a Deviated Nasal Septum?

The nasal septum is the wall that divides the two sides of the nose. It is made up of cartilage and bone, and in an ideal anatomical formation, it runs down the center of the nose. However, in many people, the septum can become deviated, meaning it shifts to one side or the other. This deviation can occur during birth, due to an injury, or it may be present from birth as a result of genetics. A deviated septum can cause a narrowing of one or both nasal cavities, leading to difficulty breathing, snoring, recurrent sinus infections, and in some cases, an aesthetically unpleasing appearance, such as a crooked nose.

What is Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated nasal septum. The goal of the surgery is to straighten the septum so that it runs down the center of the nose, improving airflow and alleviating the symptoms associated with a deviated septum. During the procedure, the surgeon will typically make an incision in the lower portion of the septum and work through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage. The surgeon will then remove or reposition any cartilage or bone that is causing the obstruction or narrowing of the airway and realign the remaining septum for better function. Septoplasty can be performed using a closed or open technique or via an endoscope, depending on the patient's unique anatomy and needs.

Ranking of Doctors for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction Surgery in New York City

Top Doctors Based on Patient Ratings and Experience

When it comes to choosing a doctor for nasal septum deviation correction surgery, patient ratings and experience are important factors to consider. Here are some of the top doctors in New York City based on information from Healthgrades and WebMD:

Additional Considerations When Choosing a Doctor

• Board Certification: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) or plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the rigorous standards of education, training, and experience in their specialty.
• Years of Experience: Look for a doctor with several years of experience performing septoplasty surgeries. A more experienced doctor is likely to have encountered a wider range of cases and be better equipped to handle any complications that may arise.
• Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the doctor's bedside manner, communication skills, and the quality of the results they achieve. You can find patient reviews on websites such as Healthgrades, WebMD, and Google Reviews.
• Hospital Affiliation: Consider the doctor's hospital affiliation. A doctor who is affiliated with a reputable hospital is likely to have access to the latest technology and resources, as well as a team of experienced medical professionals to support the surgery.

Comparison of Plastic Surgery Results

Functional Results

The primary goal of septoplasty is to improve the functionality of the nose by correcting the deviated septum and improving airflow. The following are some of the functional results that patients can expect after septoplasty:

• Improved Breathing: One of the most significant benefits of septoplasty is improved breathing. By straightening the septum, the airway is widened, allowing air to flow more freely through the nose. This can alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, snoring, and difficulty breathing during sleep.
• Reduced Sinus Infections: A deviated septum can cause blockages in the nasal passages, leading to a buildup of mucus and an increased risk of sinus infections. Septoplasty can help to reduce the frequency and severity of sinus infections by improving drainage and ventilation in the sinuses.
• Better Sleep: Improved breathing can also lead to better sleep quality. Patients who previously snored or had difficulty breathing during sleep may find that they sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more refreshed after septoplasty.

Aesthetic Results

In some cases, septoplasty can also have aesthetic benefits, especially if the deviated septum has caused a crooked or uneven appearance of the nose. However, it's important to note that the primary focus of septoplasty is on function, not appearance. If a patient is also interested in improving the appearance of their nose, they may choose to combine septoplasty with rhinoplasty, a cosmetic procedure that can reshape the nose.

When comparing the plastic surgery results of different doctors, it's important to look at before - and - after photos of their patients. This can give you an idea of the doctor's skill and the type of results they are able to achieve. You should also consider the naturalness of the results and how well the nose blends with the rest of the face.

The Septoplasty Procedure

Pre - operative Evaluation

Before undergoing septoplasty, patients will typically have a pre - operative evaluation with their doctor. During this evaluation, the doctor will:

• Conduct a thorough physical examination of the nose, including an inspection of the inside of the nose using a nasal speculum or endoscope.
• Take a detailed medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and medical conditions.
• Order any necessary tests, such as a CT scan, to get a better understanding of the nasal anatomy and the extent of the deviation.
• Discuss the patient's goals and expectations for the surgery and explain the procedure, risks, and recovery process.

Surgical Steps

The septoplasty procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Septoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the complexity of the procedure. If general anesthesia is used, the patient will be asleep during the surgery.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the nose, usually on the lower portion of the septum. This incision is typically hidden inside the nose and will not leave a visible scar.
3. Exposure of the Septum: The surgeon will then lift the mucous membrane away from the septum to expose the underlying bone and cartilage.
4. Correction of the Septum: The surgeon will remove or reposition any cartilage or bone that is causing the deviation. This may involve trimming, reshaping, or realigning the septum to straighten it and improve airflow.
5. Closure: Once the septum has been corrected, the surgeon will reposition the mucous membrane and close the incision with sutures. In some cases, the surgeon may also insert a splint or small plastic tubes inside the nose to help support the septum during the healing process.

Intra - operative Considerations

During the surgery, the surgeon will take several factors into consideration to ensure the best possible outcome:

• Anatomical Variations: Every patient's nasal anatomy is unique, and the surgeon will need to tailor the procedure to the individual. This may involve making adjustments to the surgical technique based on the location and severity of the deviation, as well as the patient's overall nasal structure.
• Preservation of Function: While the goal of septoplasty is to correct the deviated septum, the surgeon will also take care to preserve the normal function of the nose. This includes maintaining the integrity of the nasal mucosa, which helps to filter, warm, and humidify the air we breathe.
• Prevention of Complications: The surgeon will take steps to minimize the risk of complications during the surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and damage to the surrounding structures. This may involve using appropriate surgical techniques, such as gentle handling of the tissues and careful hemostasis.

Candidates for Septoplasty

Ideal Candidates

The following are some of the ideal candidates for septoplasty:

• Individuals with a deviated septum that is causing significant breathing problems, such as nasal congestion, snoring, or difficulty breathing during sleep.
• Patients who have recurrent sinus infections that are believed to be related to a deviated septum.
• People who are unhappy with the appearance of their nose due to a crooked or uneven septum and wish to improve both the function and appearance of their nose (in some cases, in combination with rhinoplasty).

Non - Candidates

Septoplasty may not be suitable for everyone. The following are some of the factors that may make a person a non - candidate for the procedure:

• Patients with acute sinus or nasal infections, as the surgery may increase the risk of spreading the infection.
• Individuals with untreated diabetes, bleeding diathesis (a tendency to bleed easily), or severe hypertension, as these conditions may increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
• Patients who are not in good overall health or who have other medical conditions that may make it difficult for them to tolerate the surgery or the recovery process.

Risks and Complications of Septoplasty

Common Risks

While septoplasty is generally considered a safe procedure, like any surgery, it carries some risks. The following are some of the common risks associated with septoplasty:

• Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after septoplasty, but in rare cases, excessive bleeding may occur. This may require additional treatment, such as packing the nose or cauterizing the bleeding vessels.
• Infection: There is a risk of infection after any surgery. To reduce this risk, patients will typically be prescribed antibiotics before and after the surgery. Signs of infection may include fever, pain, swelling, and discharge from the nose.
• Septal Hematoma: A septal hematoma is a collection of blood between the layers of the septum. This can occur if bleeding continues after the surgery and is not properly drained. A septal hematoma can cause pain, swelling, and may increase the risk of infection. It usually requires prompt treatment to drain the blood and prevent complications.
• Septal Perforation: In rare cases, a hole may develop in the septum (septal perforation) as a result of the surgery. This can cause symptoms such as a whistling sound when breathing, crusting in the nose, and recurrent nosebleeds.
• Hyposmia (Decreased Sense of Smell): Some patients may experience a temporary or permanent decrease in their sense of smell after septoplasty. This is usually due to damage to the olfactory nerves or the nasal mucosa during the surgery.

Reducing the Risk of Complications

To reduce the risk of complications, it's important to choose an experienced and qualified surgeon. The surgeon will take steps to minimize the risks during the surgery, such as using appropriate surgical techniques and providing post - operative care instructions. Patients should also follow these instructions carefully, which may include taking medications as prescribed, avoiding strenuous activities, and keeping the nose clean.

Recovery After Septoplasty

Immediate Post - operative Period

After septoplasty, patients will typically spend a few hours in the recovery room to allow the anesthesia to wear off. They may experience some pain, swelling, and nasal congestion, which can be managed with pain relievers and nasal sprays. The surgeon may also place a splint or small plastic tubes inside the nose to help support the septum during the healing process. These will usually be removed a few days after the surgery.

Short - term Recovery

During the first few days after surgery, patients should rest and avoid strenuous activities. They may experience some bruising and swelling around the eyes, which is normal and will gradually subside. Nasal drainage of blood and mucous is also common and may continue for up to a week. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding nasal care, such as using saline sprays or irrigation to keep the nose clean and moist.