Deviated Septum Surgery in New York City

What Is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage and bone that divide the left and right sides of the nose are significantly shifted to one side. This narrowing of the nasal passages can cause difficulty breathing, chronic congestion, snoring, sleep disturbances, and recurrent sinus infections.

A deviated septum may be inherited, result from trauma, or develop with age. When it interferes with airflow and quality of life, surgical correction through septoplasty may be recommended to restore proper nasal function and improve breathing.

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Common Causes of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum may develop due to:

• Congenital factors or genetics
• Normal growth and aging
• Trauma or injury to the nose
• Compression during childbirth
• Certain connective tissue disorders

A detailed nasal exam helps determine whether the septum is the primary cause of your symptoms.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

Symptoms are often chronic and may worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Persistent nasal congestion, often worse on one side
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Frequent nosebleeds or nasal crusting
• Facial pressure or headaches
• Postnasal drip
• Snoring or loud breathing during sleep

In some patients, nasal obstruction contributes to obstructive sleep apnea, which may cause daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and disrupted sleep.

If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, evaluation by an ENT surgeon is recommended.

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Enlarged Turbinates and Nasal Obstruction

Many patients with a deviated septum also have enlarged turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that swell in response to irritation or allergies. Turbinate enlargement can further restrict airflow.

Medical therapy may help, but when symptoms persist, turbinate reduction surgery may be performed alongside septoplasty to improve breathing.

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Septoplasty Surgery Overview

Septoplasty is the surgical procedure used to correct a deviated septum.

Key details:

• Performed entirely through the nostrils (no external incisions)
• Outpatient procedure
• Typically takes about 60 minutes
• General anesthesia is usually used
• Most patients return home the same day

During surgery, Dr. Mourad carefully reshapes or removes the deviated portions of cartilage and bone to create a straighter, more functional nasal airway.

If cosmetic concerns are also present, septoplasty may be combined with rhinoplasty (septorhinoplasty).

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Preparing for Deviated Septum Surgery

Before surgery, you will meet with Dr. Mourad for a comprehensive consultation. This visit focuses on:

• Reviewing your symptoms and breathing concerns
• Examining the internal and external nose
• Discussing treatment options and expectations
• Determining whether insurance may cover functional correction

Every treatment plan is individualized to ensure the best possible outcome.

Recovery After Septoplasty

Recovery varies by patient, but most experience:

• Nasal congestion for the first week
• Mild discomfort, typically managed with minimal medication
• Internal swelling that improves gradually over several weeks

Patients return for a follow-up visit approximately one week after surgery to clean the nasal passages and assess healing. Breathing typically improves as swelling subsides.

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, avoiding strenuous activity until cleared by the surgeon.

Possible Risks and Complications

Septoplasty is generally safe when performed by an experienced ENT surgeon. Potential risks include:

• Persistent congestion or crusting
• Nosebleeds
• Shifting of the septum

Rare complications may include septal perforation, infection, or changes in nasal structure. These risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation.