Understanding Septoplasty Surgery in Long Island

Understanding Septoplasty in Long Island

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deviated nasal septum—the wall between the nostrils that separates the two nasal passages. It is commonly performed in Long Island to alleviate symptoms associated with a crooked or displaced septum, such as nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, frequent nosebleeds, recurrent sinus infections, sleep apnea, and headaches.

Why Get Septoplasty in Long Island

There are several reasons you may require septoplasty surgery in Long Island. A deviated septum can be caused by genetics, injury to the nose, or progressive changes over time. Symptoms often start off mild but gradually worsen. Others have severe deviation right from birth causing major breathing impairment and repeated infections.

The main goal of #septoplasty in Long Island is to correct the misaligned septum so it no longer obstructs airflow and drainage. This helps relieve congestion, breathing issues, pain and discomfort stemming from the deviation. It may be performed alone or combined with other procedures like #rhinoplasty or sinus surgery.

Evaluating Candidacy for Septoplasty

If you are struggling with chronic nasal/breathing issues or recurrent infections, septoplasty may help. Initial evaluation involves a thorough exam of the internal nasal anatomy. Your surgeon will check the degree of deviation, if it narrows internal nasal spaces, and how it impacts your symptoms.

You may be asked to undergo CT scans to allow careful assessment of the deviation and precise surgical planning. Your doctor will also check for associated sinus inflammation, nasal obstruction, turbinate enlargement, and nasal valve collapse. The findings from the tests help determine if you require standalone septoplasty or additional intervention.

What to Expect: Before, During & After Septoplasty

Septoplasty is performed as outpatient surgery under general anesthesia. The surgery itself takes 1-2 hours. Here’s an overview of the procedure:

• You’ll be asked to quit smoking, avoid blood thinners, and fast overnight prior to surgery.
• Standard preoperative tests will check your fitness for anesthesia/surgery.
• Your doctor will discuss all preparation instructions and postoperative care needs.

• The deviated portions of the nasal septum are precisely identified.
• Incisions are made inside the nose to access the septum.
• The deformed parts are trimmed, removed or repositioned correctly.
• Splints or soft nasal packs may be temporarily placed inside the nose for stabilization & support

• You’ll experience nasal congestion, swelling, pain/pressure around the nose and eyes following surgery.
• Medications will be advised to manage discomfort and prevent infection.
• The splints and dressing are removed within a week once initial swelling subsides.
• Most people return to normal activity in 7-14 days. Strenuous physical activity should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.

Risks & Complications

Septoplasty is generally safe when performed by an experienced nasal surgeon. However, as with any surgery, risks include:

• Bleeding – rarely severe enough to require blood transfusion
• Infection
• Poor wound healing
• Need for revision surgery due to persistent symptoms
• Anesthesia-related risks
• Hole/perforation of the nasal septum – small perforations often cause no issues but larger holes may need surgical closure

Choosing a reputable surgeon attentive to precision & safety helps minimize adverse events. Follow all postop care instructions carefully – this facilitates optimal recovery.

Finding the Right Surgeon on Long Island

The success of your #septoplasty and long-term outcomes depend greatly on the surgeon’s skills and experience. When looking for a qualified nasal/sinus surgeon in Long Island, consider these tips:

• Choose a board-certified otolaryngologist or plastic surgeon.
• Look for specialists dedicated exclusively to nasal surgery and septoplasty.
• Seek surgeons with advanced training in nasal anatomy and complex revision procedures.
• Verify their expertise by checking before-and-after photos, reviews, hospital affiliations and academic positions.
• Schedule an in-depth consultation to evaluate your candidacy.

Reputable surgeons help optimize safety and realistically set expectations regarding symptom relief. Take time to make the right choice.

Recovering from Septoplasty: Tips & Postop Care Essentials

While the surgery helps resolve nasal obstruction and breathing issues stemming from a deviated septum, proper aftercare is vital for smooth recovery after your #septoplasty in Long Island.

Medications & Pain Control

Your doctor will prescribe decongestants, pain meds, and antibiotics after surgery to ease discomfort and prevent infection as you heal. Take these medications only as directed. Icing the nose and face also helps alleviate swelling and pain the first few days.

Wound Care & Hygiene Maintenance

Keeping incision sites clean prevents infection and encourages healing. Saltwater nasal irrigation helps remove crusting and mucus from the nasal passages. Proper hygiene, including showering while avoiding harsh nose blowing, is key.

Activity Restrictions

The first week postop demands lots of rest. Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling. Avoid strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks – this means no weight lifting, contact sports or exercise beyond light walking. Listen to your body and ease back into your routine gradually.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Stick to a balanced diet and stay hydrated to provide nutrients essential for healing. Stop smoking because it impedes wound healing and recovery. Avoiding secondary smoke exposure also reduces nasal irritation.

Follow-up Appointments

Schedule follow-up visits as advised by your surgeon to assess recovery progress and the realignment. Report any concerns such as worsening congestion, breathing problems, pain or signs of infection promptly. Your surgeon may recommend steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines or other medications to facilitate healing.

The Bottom Line

In most cases, #septoplasty significantly improves nasal breathing, comfort, sleeping, and quality of life once initial swelling resolves. As your septum stabilizes in its new position, symptoms continue improving over 3-6 months.

Combining the surgery with appropriate medical therapy and lifestyle adjustments provides optimal relief from nasal obstruction. Work closely with your ENT specialist and follow postop guidelines diligently for best results.

FAQs

How long does septoplasty surgery take?

The septoplasty procedure itself typically takes 1-2 hours to complete. Total time under anesthesia may be longer to also allow for corrective nasal surgery if being combined with septoplasty.

How painful is septoplasty?

There is moderate pain, swelling and nasal congestion for the first few days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort as you recover. The pain gradually improves over the first week.

Can septoplasty straighten the nose?

The main purpose of septoplasty is to realign the nasal septum, not change external nose appearance. However, it may be combined with #rhinoplasty or nose reshaping surgery to concurrently address both form and function.

Does medical insurance cover septoplasty?

Most health insurance plans cover septoplasty surgery when deemed medically necessary to improve nasal breathing issues stemming from septal deviation interfering with normal function.