Crooked Nose From Deviated Septum Rhinoplasty
When a septum is deviated, it’s not only a cosmetic concern but functionally as well. Deviated septums can make it difficult to breath, difficult to sleep, and lead to chronic headaches and nosebleeds. In some cases it can cause sleep apnea, which is a serious condition where people stop breathing in their sleep. Patients who suffer from these symptoms may want to consider septoplasty, a rhinoplasty surgery designed to straighten the nose and fix the septum so that the nasal airways are open.
About Deviated Septums
The septum is the cartilage and bone that divides the nose in half, creating two separate airways.
A deviated septum can occur as a result of trauma to the nose or patients may be born with it.
It is important to note that the majority of people don’t have perfectly straight septums. However, when a crooked septum starts to impair the functionality of the nose, then it is likely time to consider surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Septoplasty?
By addressing internal structural and external aesthetic concerns, septoplasty can significantly enhance your daily comfort and confidence, allowing you to breathe freely and comfortably again.
Other benefits include the following:
- Relief from chronic nasal congestion and headaches
- Reduction or elimination of nosebleeds
- Enhanced quality of sleep, potentially reducing or resolving sleep apnea
- Improved nasal symmetry and appearance, enhancing your facial harmony
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you're experiencing the following, you may be an excellent candidate for septoplasty:
- Chronic breathing difficulties
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Disrupted sleep
- Headaches
- Nasal congestion due to a deviated septum
Ideal candidates typically have tried non-surgical treatments without sufficient relief and seek a permanent, effective solution.
We invite you to schedule a private consultation at Princeton Plastic Surgeons to determine whether septoplasty is right for you. During your visit, Dr. Hamawy or Dr. Martinez will:
- Perform a thorough examination
- Discuss your medical history and symptoms
- Outline a personalized surgical plan tailored specifically to achieve your aesthetic goals
Septoplasty
This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and under general or local anesthesia, depending on the seriousness of the case and the patient’s personal feelings.
Fixing a deviated septum is known as septoplasty.
To fix the septum, the deviated part of the septum will be removed so that the septum and surrounding cartilage is straight. It may be replaced in the nose in a new position; this will counter any obstruction of the airway. In some cases, a cartilage graft will be used to provide additional support to the septum. If the nose is crooked, then in most cases it will be necessary to re-break the bone of the nose to perform surgery. After breaking the nose, then the bone will be set straight.
Recovery
During recovery from septoplasty, patients will be outfitted with an internal splint and soft packing material to keep the bone and cartilage straight as it heals. The nose may bleed a little for the first couple days following surgery. This is normal. Also, if the nose was broken, then there will be bruising and swelling present for one to two weeks.
Why Choose Us for Septoplasty?
At Princeton Plastic Surgeons, your septoplasty is performed by one of two esteemed, board-certified plastic surgeons—Dr. Adam Hamawy and Dr. Amaury Martinez Garcia—both renowned for meticulous technique, compassionate patient care, and exceptional outcomes.
Dr. Hamawy brings over two decades of elite surgical expertise, with advanced training from prestigious institutions including UT Southwestern Medical and New York Presbyterian-Cornell. Dr. Martinez complements our practice with his distinguished surgical background, including extensive training at NYU Langone Medical Center and St. Joseph's University Medical Center, and invaluable global experience gained through international surgical missions.
We are dedicated to delivering personalized, luxurious care for your septoplasty journey, emphasizing comfort and satisfaction. We focus on achieving natural-looking, lasting results through thorough patient education and compassionate support. Choose Princeton Plastic Surgeons for unparalleled expertise and excellence in New Jersey.
FAQs
How long does a septoplasty procedure usually take?
Most septoplasty procedures take approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your individual case.
Is septoplasty a painful procedure?
Discomfort is generally minimal and well-managed with prescribed medications. Many patients describe feeling pressure rather than significant pain during recovery.
Can septoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, septoplasty is often combined with other nasal or facial procedures such as cosmetic rhinoplasty, sinus surgery, or turbinate reduction to optimize both function and aesthetic results.
Will septoplasty alter the external appearance of my nose significantly?
Typically, septoplasty primarily addresses internal nasal structures, leaving the external appearance unchanged unless combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty to reshape the nose aesthetically.
How soon can I return to work after septoplasty?
Most patients return to non-strenuous work within 5 to 7 days. If your job involves physical exertion, you may need to wait up to 2 weeks, or as our surgeons recommend.
Are septoplasty results permanent?
Yes, results are typically permanent. The structural changes made during septoplasty correct the deviation permanently, barring any new trauma to the nose.
Can septoplasty help reduce allergies or sinus infections?
While septoplasty does not directly treat allergies, it can significantly improve airflow, reducing congestion and symptoms of allergies or chronic sinusitis.
At what age can septoplasty be performed?
Septoplasty is typically recommended once nasal growth is complete, usually around age 16 to 18, although exceptions can be made based on severity and individual circumstances.
Is septoplasty covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover septoplasty when medically necessary, such as for breathing difficulties or chronic nasal obstruction. Our office staff can assist in verifying your coverage and benefits.
Are there any risks associated with septoplasty?
Septoplasty is considered safe when performed by experienced surgeons, though all surgeries carry minor risks. Potential complications, though uncommon, may include bleeding, infection, reaction to anesthesia, or temporary numbness. Our surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks.
Ready to Breathe Easier?
Contact Princeton Plastic Surgeons today to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Hamawy or Dr. Martinez. Together, we'll create a personalized treatment plan to enhance your breathing, appearance, and overall quality of life.
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Princeton Plastic Surgeons, based in the New Jersey area, boasts board-certified surgeons who specialize in procedures such as facelifts, breast lifts, breast augmentations, and tummy tucks.