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Looking for relief from chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or snoring? Septoplasty, a common surgical procedure, is a surgery that can efficiently address a deviated septum and improve your quality of life. 

Dr. Moustafa Mourad is one of the best septoplasty surgeons in NYC, with years of experience and a reputation for excellence. Whether you’re struggling with a deviated septum or other nasal issues, Dr. Mourad can help you breathe easier and feel better.

Schedule a consultation for a septoplasty in New York!

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What is a septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed to correct a deviated or crooked septum, which is the cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils in the nose. The procedure involves straightening and repositioning the septum to improve airflow and alleviate breathing difficulties. 

It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia and involves minimal incisions and a short recovery period. Septoplasty can be done alone or in combination with other nasal procedures such as rhinoplasty or turbinate reduction.

What are the issues caused by a deviated septum?

A deviated septum can cause several issues, including the following symptoms:
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose;
  • Frequent sinus infections;
  • Frequent nosebleeds;
  • Facial pain and headaches;
  • Snoring. 

In some cases, a deviated septum may also lead to sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. Additionally, a deviated septum can affect the cosmetic appearance of the nose, causing it to appear crooked or misshapen.

How can I straighten a deviated nasal septum?

The only way to physically make the septum more even inside your nose is with a surgical procedure called a septoplasty. The surgery you have will depend on where you have a deviation and where you have your obstruction. 

  1. If your septum deviates deeper inside of your nose then all otolaryngologists are trained to remove the deviated portion and give you a straighter septum. 
  2. If you have a very anterior septal deviation, near your nostrils or even extending into your nostrils, you may want to have a facial plastic surgeon correct your septum. Facial plastic surgeons have extensive training in the cosmetic and functional front of your nose.

Who is a good candidate for a NYC septoplasty?

A good candidate for septoplasty is someone who has a deviated septum that is causing nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, snoring, or chronic sinus infections that have not responded to other treatments. Other symptoms that may indicate a need for septoplasty include frequent nosebleeds, headaches, facial pain, and postnasal drip. 

Candidates for septoplasty should be in good overall health and not have any medical conditions that could increase the risks associated with surgery. Septoplasty may be considered for children or adults who have completed facial growth, typically around age 16 or older. It is important to consult with an experienced ENT surgeon to determine if septoplasty is a good option for a particular patient’s needs.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mourad to know if you’re a good candidate for septoplasty in NYC!

How is the recovery from a septoplasty?

The recovery is not fun at all although it is generally not very painful. Most patients do have obstruction of both sides of the nose that lasts for most of the week or even until you see your doctor. Dr. Mourad provides pain medication if you need it but most of the time Tylenol or no medication is used. You return to our office one week after your procedure and your nose is decongested with any crusts removed from inside of the nose. Most patients are breathing better within a couple of weeks as the swelling inside of the nose improves.

What are the associated risks of a septoplasty?

As with any surgeries or medical procedures, a septoplasty may present some risks to the patient. You can rest assured that Dr. Moustafa Mourad and his team of experts will let you know of the associated risks well in advance. Here are the most notable associated risks when it comes to a septoplasty.

  • Anesthesia: Depending on the type of anesthesia administered, patients may have a reaction. This is exceedingly rare, and it is important to discuss your personal risk with your anesthesiologist.
  • Infection: In rare circumstances patients may develop an infection following septoplasty procedures. These are usually managed with intraoperative and postoperative antibiotics.
  • Bleeding: Although rare, patients may have bleeding episodes following nasal surgery. Your surgeon will likely order blood work to make sure you are healthy enough to undergo the procedure. Your surgeon should also go over all medications and supplements that you take to minimize bleeding risk.
  • Need for secondary and revision surgeries: Depending on the complexity of the surgery, sometimes multiple surgeries are required to ensure the best aesthetic and functional outcomes.
  • Scarring and Poor wound healing: Some patients with underlying medical conditions or more prone to poor wound healing and scarring. It is important to understand these risks prior to embarking on a treatment strategy.
  • Local Reactions: Sometimes you may experience local reactions to the ointments, sutures, taping material, and nasal packing used during surgery and postoperatively. This is rarely seen, but may occur. If you have any allergies to certain materials or adhesives you should discuss with your surgeon.
  • Changes in nasal sensation:Patients may experience altered sensations in their nose (pain or numbness). This is exceedingly rare, and if it occurs it is most often temporary.
  • Persistent or Recurrent Nasal Airway Obstruction: Although the goal of surgery is to enhance breathing, sometimes patients may develop persistent or recurrent airway problems. This is rare, but oftentimes is due to poor wound healing or scarring (see above). This may require secondary surgeries to optimize outcomes.
  • Continued need for medical therapies: If you have breathing complaints related to medical causes (e.g. allergies), then you may continue to require medical nasal therapies (e.g. nasal steroids and sprays).
  • Nasal Septal Perforation: A hole in the septum may develop. Oftentimes these do not cause any problems. Other times however, they may cause crusting, bleeding, and breathing difficulties. These require secondary surgeries for repair.

Septoplasty cost NYC

How much does a septoplasty cost in New York City?

The cost of a septoplasty in New York City can vary depending on several factors such as the surgeon’s experience, the facility where the procedure is performed, and the extent of the surgery needed. The cost may also be influenced by the patient’s insurance coverage and the deductible and copay amounts. On average, the cost of a septoplasty in New York City can range from $5,000 to $15,000. It is important to discuss the cost of the procedure with the surgeon’s office and the patient’s insurance provider to obtain an accurate estimate of the expected costs.

Does insurance pay for a septoplasty in New York?

Most insurances will pay for functional surgery of the nose, that is, surgery that improves the ability of your nose to work well. Our office will check your benefits for you and let you know what your responsibility will be. We don’t believe in patient surprises and will keep you informed throughout the process. You may have co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance which we will tell you about. We try to keep our services affordable as we all have financial responsibilities. Of course, cosmetic surgery is never covered by insurance.

Meet Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS

Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS is board-certified in head and neck surgery and highly-trained in cosmetic plastic surgery and facial reconstruction. Dr. Mourad is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He treats many conditions, both cosmetic and complex, that affect the head, neck... Learn More »

The Results


Learn more about septoplasty NYC

What is the process of a septoplasty?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. The following is a general overview of the process of a septoplasty:

1. Anesthesia:

The patient is given local or general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

2. Incision:

The surgeon makes an incision on the inside of the nose to access the septum.

3. Repositioning of septum:

The surgeon repositions the deviated septum by trimming, repositioning, or replacing parts of the cartilage and bone.

4. Closing the incision:

The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches, and nasal packing or splints may be placed inside the nose to support the septum during the healing process.

5. Recovery:

After the procedure, the patient is monitored in the recovery area until they are awake and stable enough to go home. Most patients can go home the same day, but some may need to stay overnight for observation.

6. Follow-up:

The patient will have a follow-up appointment with the surgeon to remove any nasal packing or splints and to check on the healing progress.

The recovery period after septoplasty can take a few weeks, during which time the patient should avoid activities that could disrupt the healing process, such as blowing their nose or strenuous exercise. The surgeon will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care and follow-up appointments to monitor the healing progress.

What are some of the common nasal conditions that may require septoplasty?

Common nasal conditions that may require septoplasty include insufficient nasal drainage, intermittent nasal obstruction, nasal blockage, and a crooked shape of the nasal septum.

Is septoplasty a cosmetic procedure?

While septoplasty may improve the cosmetic appearance of the nose in some cases, it is primarily performed for functional reasons, such as improving nasal function and airflow.

What is the recovery process like after septoplasty?

The recovery process typically takes 2-3 weeks, during which time the patient should avoid strenuous activities and follow the recovery instructions provided by their surgeon. Sensation of nasal congestion and mucus membrane healing can take 3-6 months.

What are some of the biggest concerns with septoplasties?

Some of the biggest concerns with septoplasty include health concerns, such as infection or bleeding, and the possibility of insufficient improvement in nasal function.

Is septoplasty surgery an effective procedure?

Yes, septoplasty is an effective procedure for improving nasal function and airflow. The improvement in nasal function and airflow is usually significant after the surgery.

Can septoplasties be combined with other procedures?

Yes, septoplasty can be combined with other nose surgeries, such as rhinoplasty or nasal valve surgery, for patients who require additional improvement in nasal function or cosmetic appearance.

How can patients schedule a septoplasty consultation?

Patients can schedule a private consultation with a facial plastic surgeon or a double board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with septoplasty patients. Virtual consultations are also available. Patients can speak with patient advisers and even see real patient photos before and after their procedure.

Is recovery from a nasal septoplasty difficult?

Recovery from septoplasty is generally not difficult, and patients can usually return to normal activities within a couple of weeks. However, patients should follow the recovery instructions provided by their surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery.

Is septoplasty a complex procedure?

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that can be complex, as it involves delicate nasal structures and requires a high level of precision to achieve optimal results. The procedure typically involves repositioning the cartilage and bone of the septum to improve nasal airflow and relieve breathing difficulties. Depending on the severity of the deviated septum and the extent of the correction needed, the procedure may take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to complete. Septoplasty can be performed under local or general anesthesia, and it is usually done on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day. While the procedure can be complex, it is considered a safe and effective treatment option for those suffering from nasal obstruction and other related symptoms. As with any surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with an experienced ENT surgeon and to carefully follow pre- and post-operative instructions to optimize results and minimize potential complications.

Can I have other procedures with my septoplasty surgery?

Yes. You can have a turbinate reduction or valve repair to further improve breathing. You can also have sinus surgery or removal of polyps to improve sinus function. If you have a bump or other areas of your face that you would like addressed then you can have cosmetic surgery at the same time.