Septoplasty in Great Neck, Nassau County

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct defects or deformities of the septum, the partition between the two nostrils. Commonly a procedure that is performed to correct a deviated septum. While a small deviation of the septum is commonplace, if the condition is severe, it may impede airflow through the nostrils. This may cause difficulty breathing and poor nasal drainage from the sinuses, both of which are problematic.

In adults, the nasal septum is composed of both cartilage and bone. The function of the nasal septum is to support the mucous membranes of the nose and to regulate air flow. Septoplasty is commonly performed to help relieve nasal obstruction and in some cases it may be a part of other surgical procedures including sinus surgery or nasal tumor or polyp removal. Septoplasty straightens the nasal septum by trimming, repositioning and replacing cartilage or bone within the nose.

The Septoplasty Procedure

The septoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure and either a general or local anesthetic may be used. During a septoplasty, Dr. Setzen straightens the septum and repositions it to the center of the nose. The procedure may involve removing a small part of the septum itself. A septoplasty may also be performed in conjunction with a rhinoplasty in order to ensure that the reshaping of the nose does not result in a reduction of the amount of breathing space or in conjunction with sinus surgery to assist in post-surgical drainage. Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. After the procedure, there may be splints or packing (of cotton) placed inside the nose to prevent bleeding during the healing process.

Recovery from Septoplasty

Patients return home the same day of the procedure. Packing is usually removed from the nose about 24 hours after the procedure, which helps make patients more comfortable. Patients may experience some swelling and nasal drainage. Most patients are advised to refrain from any strenuous or physical activity for one to two weeks after the procedure. Patients are also advised to elevate their heads while sleeping for at least three to five days and nose blowing should also be avoided for seven to ten days after septoplasty.

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Happy Patient 24 Hours After Septoplasty

A patients recovery journey after a Septoplasty procedure

Risks of Septoplasty

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with septoplasty which include bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Risks specific to septoplasty may include:

• Bleeding
• Septal perforation, which is rare
• Decreased sense of smell
• Scarring internally

Most patients experience restored breathing after the septoplasty procedure. However, full relief may take up to a two to three months, because the cartilage and bones of the septum tend to heal slowly.

Hear What Dr. Setzen’s Patients Have to Say

“I had a badly deviated septum for the past 10 years after a sports injury, leading to many breathing issues and chronic nasal congestion. He was able to correct all of my issues and correct the outside appearance of my nose as it was crooked from the injury. I’m extremely happy with the results. 10/10 recommend!” – K.H

“My son had an extremely severe deviated septum from a childhood injury. He had only 5 to 10% breathing capability. It was a challenging and complex surgery that most doctors would not have even attempted. It was a 100% successful surgery, and my son has been able to breathe freely ever since.” – M.L

“I put off having surgery to repair my deviated septum and clear my sinuses for about five years. Although I knew that both of my parents had very positive experiences with Dr. Setzen, I was apprehensive about the recovery period. All I can say is that I should have had it done years ago!” – A.S

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