Introduction

Nasal septum deviation is a common condition that can cause a variety of problems, such as nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, sinus infections, and nosebleeds. For many individuals in New York City, corrective surgery may be the best option to alleviate these symptoms. In this article, we will explore the ranking of public specialized hospitals for nasal septum deviation correction surgery in New York City, as well as provide comprehensive information about the surgery, its candidates, risks, and recovery.

What is Nasal Septum Deviation and Septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated nasal septum. The nasal septum is the partition between the two nasal cavities. When it deviates from the center line and into one of the nasal cavities, it can impede airflow due to the 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 (Source: Top Septoplasty Surgeon New York City NYC | Deviated Septum Repair Manhattan).

During a septoplasty operation, which is generally done under general anesthesia, the surgeon will usually make an incision on the lower portion of the septum, known as the caudal septum. They then work through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage targeted in the procedure. Most septoplasty procedures are comprised of five steps: the initial incision to expose the deviated septum, identifying and releasing the internal structures that are the cause of angulations, realigning the septum, reimplanting crushed cartilage (when appropriate), and closure of the incision. The septum is then temporarily stabilized with a splint, small plastic tubes, or internal sutures. Septoplasty can be performed using a closed or open technique or via an endoscope, and the method used depends on the patient's unique anatomy and needs (Source: Top Septoplasty Surgeon New York City NYC | Deviated Septum Repair Manhattan).

Candidates for Septoplasty

This surgery is typically indicated for individuals with recurrent rhinitis, a deviated septum, or other chronic sinusitis. Septoplasty can also be performed to alleviate recurrent epistaxis (nosebleeds) due to septal impaction or septal spur. Lastly, it can be done for cosmetic purposes to straighten a crooked or deviated nose. 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 (Source: Top Septoplasty Surgeon New York City NYC | Deviated Septum Repair Manhattan).

Septoplasty Risks & Recovery

Septoplasty is a common surgical procedure that has a very low risk of complications, and when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, it is both safe and effective. However, rare complications such as bleeding, septal hematoma, septal perforation, and hyposmia (decreased sense of smell) have been reported. During septoplasty recovery, patients can experience mild to moderate tenderness or pain at the front of the nose, as well as stuffiness due to swelling. Nasal drainage of blood and mucous is also common. Patients can expect swelling and congestion inside the nose to last between two and three days, and drainage may continue for up to five days. While over - the - counter (otc) medications usually suffice, the surgeon may prescribe a pain reliever for the first day following surgery as well as a saline spray or irrigation treatment several times per day for the week following surgery to clear any nasal congestion. Full recovery generally takes one to two months (Source: Top Septoplasty Surgeon New York City NYC | Deviated Septum Repair Manhattan).

Rankings of Public Specialized Hospitals for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction Surgery in New York City

Based on U.S. News Rankings for Ear, Nose & Throat

U.S. News evaluates hospitals that see many challenging ear, nose, and throat patients. These hospitals are assessed on patient outcomes, nurse staffing, services, and more. Here are some of the top - ranked hospitals in New York City for ear, nose, and throat (which includes nasal septum deviation correction surgery) according to U.S. News:

Based on Doctor Ratings on Healthgrades

Healthgrades provides ratings for doctors who perform nasal septum surgery and treat deviated septum in New York. Some of the highly - rated doctors and their affiliated hospitals or practices can give an indication of where good septum deviation correction surgery might be available:

Procedures Offered at Specialized Hospitals for Nasal Septum Deviation

Septoplasty

As mentioned earlier, septoplasty is a procedure to center the septum, creating two nasal passages that are the same size. This corrects any airflow disturbance caused by a deviated septum. A surgeon uses small surgical instruments to make an incision in the tissue lining the septum, then straightens or repositions the deviated section of the septum to maximize airflow through the nasal passages. If the septum is damaged in addition to being out of place, doctors may remove small pieces of cartilage or bone (Source: Surgery for 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 may perform septorhinoplasty. During this procedure, surgeons eliminate the nasal obstruction and use cosmetic techniques that ensure that the nose looks natural. They correct the position of the septum and address any other structural problems. Frequently, surgeons remove cartilage from the septum and place it in other areas to improve breathing and, if desired, to alter the shape of the nose. If a deviated septum has caused sinus problems in addition to obstructed breathing, the surgeon may perform sinus surgery in addition to septorhinoplasty to prevent sinus infections from occurring. In more complex procedures like these, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon and an otolaryngologist may work together to provide the best care (Source: Surgery for Deviated Septum | NYU Langone Health).

Submucosal Resection

In submucosal resection, a surgeon removes small sections of the septum, the turbinates, or both to open the nasal passages. A surgeon accesses the septum or turbinates through the nostrils and makes a small incision in the layer of soft tissue lining the nasal passage. This incision allows surgeons to remove portions of the underlying bone structure without disturbing the outer layer of tissue, which plays an important role in keeping the nasal passages hydrated. Surgeons may use a laser or a small device called a microdebrider, a powered instrument that removes bone and soft tissue, to reduce the size of turbinates (Source: Surgery for Deviated Septum | NYU Langone Health).

Turbinate Outfracture

In addition to a submucosal resection or laser procedure, surgeons may also permanently reposition the turbinates to provide more space in the nasal passages. This permanent repositioning, called outfracture, involves breaking the thin bones of the turbinates in order to reposition them (Source: Surgery for Deviated Septum | NYU Langone Health).

How to Choose the Right Hospital for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction Surgery

• Hospital Reputation: Look at the hospital's overall reputation in the medical community. Hospitals that are nationally ranked in ear, nose, and throat specialties, as well as other related specialties, are often a good choice. For example, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell have high national rankings, which can be an indication of their quality of care.
• Surgeon Experience: Check the experience and ratings of the surgeons who will be performing the surgery. You can look at patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades to get an idea of the surgeon's skills and bedside manner. Surgeons with a high number of successful septum deviation correction surgeries and positive patient feedback are more likely to provide good results.
• Available Procedures: Different hospitals may offer different procedures for nasal septum deviation correction. Make sure the hospital you choose offers the procedure that is most suitable for your condition. For example, if you have a complex case with additional sinus problems, a hospital that offers septorhinoplasty and sinus surgery in combination may be a better choice.
• Insurance Coverage: Verify that the hospital accepts your health insurance. This can significantly reduce your out - of - pocket expenses. You can check with your insurance provider or the hospital's billing department to confirm coverage.
• Location and Convenience: Consider the location of the hospital. If you need to visit the hospital for pre - operative consultations, post - operative follow - ups, and potential emergency visits, a hospital that is close to your home or workplace can be more convenient.

Conclusion

In New York City, there are several public specialized hospitals that offer high - quality nasal septum deviation correction surgery. By considering the rankings, procedures offered, and factors such as surgeon experience and insurance coverage, patients can make an informed decision about which hospital is the best fit for their needs. Septoplasty and related procedures can provide significant relief from the symptoms of nasal septum deviation, but it is important to choose a qualified surgeon and a reputable hospital to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you know is suffering from nasal septum deviation, we encourage you to do further research, consult with multiple doctors, and explore the options available at the top - ranked hospitals in New York City. Don't hesitate to share this article with others who may benefit from this information and explore related topics on nasal health and surgical procedures.