Introduction
Nasal septum deviation is a common condition that can lead to a variety of problems, including breathing difficulties, chronic sinus issues, snoring, and sleep disturbances. In New York City, a metropolis with a high - density population and access to top - tier medical resources, several hospitals stand out for their excellence in nasal septum deviation correction surgery, also known as septoplasty. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals in New York City for this procedure, as well as provide in - depth knowledge about septoplasty, its causes, and what to expect during and after the surgery.
Understanding Nasal Septum Deviation
What is the Nasal Septum?
The nasal septum is a thin strip of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal passage into two cavities. In an ideal anatomical formation, it runs down the center of the nose. However, when it is displaced to one side, either from birth or due to an injury, it is called a deviated septum (source: NYU Langone Health). A slightly deviated septum is common and often doesn't cause health problems for most people. But a more severe deviation may obstruct airflow, impede breathing through the nose, cause snoring, and block the sinuses from draining.
Causes of Nasal Septum Deviation
- 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 (source: Dr. Rizk's practice). For example, if there are family members with similar nasal structure issues, the likelihood of a congenital deviated septum may increase.
- 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. A common scenario could be a boxer getting hit in the nose during a match or a person being involved in a car accident and hitting their nose on the dashboard.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions can affect septal alignment. Nasal polyps can cause structural changes, inflammatory processes can affect nasal tissues, chronic sinus infections can lead to gradual deviation, and in rare cases, tumors can cause septal displacement (source: Dr. Rizk's practice).
Consequences of Nasal Septum Deviation
Breathing Difficulties
One of the most common consequences of a deviated septum is breathing difficulties. When the 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. This can lead to chronic nasal congestion, making it hard for individuals to breathe through their nose, especially during sleep (source: various clinics in New York offering septoplasty services).
Sinus Issues
A deviated septum can also block the sinuses from draining properly. This can lead to recurrent sinus infections, as mucus builds up in the sinuses and provides a breeding ground for bacteria. The resulting sinusitis can cause pain, pressure in the face, headaches, and a reduced sense of smell.
Snoring and Sleep Disturbances
Obstructed nasal airflow can contribute to snoring. When air has a hard time passing through the nasal passages, the soft tissues in the throat can vibrate, creating the characteristic snoring sound. In more severe cases, a deviated septum can be a contributing factor to obstructive sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
What is Septoplasty?
Definition and Purpose
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 so that it runs down the center of the nose in the ideal anatomical formation. The main purpose of septoplasty is to improve breathing by opening up the nasal passages and addressing any airflow disturbances caused by the deviated septum (source: Cangello Plastic Surgery).
The Surgical Process
Generally done under general anesthesia, a septoplasty operation usually begins with an incision on the lower portion of the septum, known as the caudal septum. The surgeon then works through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage targeted in the procedure. Most septoplasty procedures are comprised of five steps:
- Initial Incision: The surgeon makes an incision to expose the deviated septum.
- Identifying and Releasing Structures: The internal structures that are the cause of angulations are identified and released.
- Realigning the Septum: The septum is repositioned to its proper alignment.
- Reimplanting Crushed Cartilage (if appropriate): If cartilage has been damaged or removed, it may be reimplanted to help maintain the structure of the nose.
- Closure of the Incision: The incision is closed, and the nose may be temporarily stabilized with a splint, small plastic tubes, or internal sutures (source: Cangello Plastic Surgery).
Septoplasty can be performed using a closed or open technique or via an endoscope. The method used depends on the patient's unique anatomy and needs.
Top Three Hospitals for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction Surgery in New York City
NYU Langone Health
Expertise and Approach
NYU Langone's otolaryngologists, who specialize in head and neck surgery, and plastic and reconstructive surgeons are highly skilled in treating deviated septums. They can perform one or more procedures to reposition the septum and provide more space in the nasal passages. Using minimally invasive techniques, the surgeries are often done in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return home on the same day (source: NYU Langone Health). If the results of diagnostic imaging tests indicate that there are other structural abnormalities in addition to the deviated septum, such as enlarged turbinates, the surgeons address those as well. For instance, they may reduce the size of the turbinates to make more room for the nasal passages.
Range of Procedures
NYU Langone offers various procedures related to deviated septum correction. Septoplasty is a common procedure to center the septum and create two equal - sized nasal passages. In cases where an injury has caused a nasal obstruction or where the appearance of the nose needs to be addressed, septorhinoplasty may be performed. During this procedure, the surgeons not only correct the septum but also use cosmetic techniques to ensure the nose looks natural. Additionally, if a deviated septum has caused sinus problems, the surgeon may perform sinus surgery in addition to septorhinoplasty to prevent sinus infections from occurring.
Cangello Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. David Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. He has extensive experience in septoplasty procedures. Since every septum is unique, Dr. Cangello tailors each septoplasty to the individual patient. He is skilled in exposing the bony and cartilaginous portions of the septum, freeing the cartilage from its attachments to the bone, and removing or repositioning any cartilage or bone that is causing obstruction or narrowing of the airway (source: Cangello Plastic Surgery). After realigning the septum, he uses methods like splints, small plastic tubes, or internal sutures to temporarily stabilize it.
Patient - Centered Care
The clinic provides a high level of patient - centered care. Before the surgery, Dr. Cangello takes the time to explain the procedure in detail to the patient, answering all their questions and addressing any concerns. During the recovery process, he provides clear instructions on how to manage pain, reduce swelling, and promote proper healing. He also schedules follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's progress and ensure a successful outcome.
Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center
Skilled Surgeon
Dr. M. Zakir Sabry at Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center is an expert in septoplasty. He has earned recognition as a “top doctor” since 2005. With his expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, he provides top - notch care for patients seeking septoplasty. During the outpatient surgery, Dr. Sabry expertly manipulates and reconstructs the wall between the nostrils to open airways obstructed by bone and cartilage displacement. He realigns or removes portions of the crooked septum to increase airflow, allowing patients to breathe freely (source: Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center).
Comprehensive Approach
The center offers a comprehensive approach to septoplasty. From the initial consultation, where the patient's symptoms, medical history, and goals for surgery are reviewed, to the pre - operative preparations, which include lab tests, medication adjustments, and helping the patient arrange transportation and help after surgery, the staff at Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center is dedicated to ensuring a smooth process. During the recovery period, they provide detailed instructions on post - operative care, including how to manage pain, clean the nose, and gradually resume normal activities.
Candidates for Septoplasty
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with Recurrent Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis: Those who suffer from frequent sinus infections or rhinitis due to a deviated septum may benefit from septoplasty. The surgery can open up the nasal passages and improve sinus drainage, reducing the frequency of these conditions (source: various medical resources in New York).
- People with Nasal Obstruction: If a deviated septum is causing significant nasal obstruction, making it difficult to breathe through the nose, septoplasty can be a good option. This may be due to a congenital deviated septum or a result of trauma to the nose.
- Patients with Recurrent Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): Septoplasty can be performed to alleviate recurrent nosebleeds caused by septal impaction or septal spur. By correcting the septum, the irritation that leads to nosebleeds can be reduced.
- Those Seeking Cosmetic Improvements: In some cases, septoplasty can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to straighten a crooked or deviated nose, improving both the function and appearance of the nose.
Non - Candidates
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 good candidates for the procedure as these conditions can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery (source: Cangello Plastic Surgery).
Septoplasty Risks and Recovery
Risks
Although septoplasty is a common surgical procedure with a very low risk of complications, rare complications such as bleeding, septal hematoma (collection of blood in the septum), septal perforation (a hole in the septum), and hyposmia (decreased sense of smell) have been reported (source: European archives of oto - rhino - laryngology). The risk can be minimized by choosing an experienced and board - certified surgeon.
Recovery
Immediate Post - Surgery
After septoplasty, patients can expect some 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. Gauze packing is usually placed in each nasal passage to absorb drainage and prevent bleeding, and pain medication is prescribed to manage discomfort. Patients should keep their heads elevated on several pillows when sleeping to reduce swelling, and rest is crucial to restore energy and facilitate proper healing (source: Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center).
Short - Term Recovery (1 - 2 Weeks)
The nose packing is usually removed within several days after surgery. Discomfort and nasal congestion are still common during the first week, but pain medication can help manage unpleasant symptoms. Patients should avoid heavy lifting, bending over, straining, or strenuous activity to allow proper healing. Splints are usually removed at the beginning of the second week, and saline spray can be used to help cleanse the nose.
Long - Term Recovery (Months)
It can take up to a year for the nose to stabilize and adjust completely after septoplasty procedures. Even if the skin looks healed, the tissues, membranes, blood vessels, and nerves inside the nasal passages continue to recuperate for several months. Regular activity may gradually resume, but strenuous exercise should still be avoided for at least a month. Most patients report a substantial improvement in nasal airflow within a few weeks after the surgery.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost of Septoplasty in NYC
The cost of septoplasty in New York City ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. The wide range in price depends on factors like the surgeon's fees, hospital or facility charges, and anesthesia expenses. On average, most people can expect to pay nearly $10,000 for septoplasty when performed by an experienced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon (source: Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center). During the initial consultation at many clinics, patients receive accurate price quotes and can discuss all financial questions.
Insurance Coverage
Coverage for septoplasty by insurance plans varies. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost if the procedure is deemed medically necessary, such as when it is performed to correct breathing difficulties or sinus problems caused by a deviated septum. However, if the surgery is being done primarily for cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered. Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center is an out - of - network provider for most insurance plans, but their knowledgeable staff can help patients navigate their benefits and see what portion of the septoplasty costs their plan will cover.
Conclusion
Nasal septum deviation can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, causing breathing difficulties, sinus issues, and sleep disturbances. Fortunately, in New York City, there are top - notch hospitals and surgeons available to perform septoplasty, a highly effective surgical procedure for correcting this condition. NYU Langone Health, Cangello Plastic Surgery, and Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center are three leading institutions known for their expertise, patient - centered care, and successful outcomes in nasal septum deviation correction surgery. Before deciding on the procedure, it is important for patients to understand the causes, consequences, and recovery process of septoplasty, as well as the costs and insurance coverage involved.
If you are suffering from symptoms related to a deviated septum, we encourage you to seek a consultation with a qualified medical professional at one of these top hospitals. They can provide a personalized assessment, answer your questions, and guide you through the decision - making process to help you achieve better nasal function and an improved quality of life. Don't let a deviated septum hold you back any longer – take the first step towards better health today.
