Most people have at least a slightly deviated septum, but in some cases, the deviation can be severe enough to cause continual nasal obstruction.
Whether you realize it or not, a deviated septum can cause other health issues. While many people are used to struggling with the discomfort associated with this concern, you should not have to live with it.
At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Pearlman is a well-known rhinoplasty specialist who offers deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area.
Patients trust his proven expertise.
What causes a deviated septum?
While some deviations might be caused by an injury, the most common cause of a deviated septum is natural anatomy. You may have a deviated septum present at birth, or your nasal septal cartilage may weaken and bend with age, causing the septum to become crooked.
The septum is the vertical structure that divides the nasal cavity into two equal halves. It’s made up of both cartilage and bone and plays a crucial role in maintaining airflow and supporting the overall function of the nose. When the septum is crooked, or deviated, it can lead to a range of issues that affect both breathing and overall nasal health.
How Deviated Septums Are Diagnosed
A specialist uses a headlight and an instrument called a speculum to diagnose a deviated septum. In some cases, a CT scan can help better visualize the back of your nose and sinuses. A CT scan is usually necessary for patients who have recurrent sinusitis to get a better understanding of the status of their sinuses because they can’t be seen with a speculum or nasal endoscope.
At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, we use intra-nasal photographs taken with a nasal endoscopic camera to circumvent the need for a CT scan in most cases.
When Surgery Is Necessary
Many people have mildly deviated septums that cause no problems whatsoever. If there is no nasal blockage, obstruction, or frequent sinusitis, then a mildly deviated septum doesn’t need to be fixed unless you are considering rhinoplasty surgery.
We typically recommend surgery when a deviated septum significantly impacts quality of life or leads to ongoing health issues. A thorough evaluation by a qualified facial plastic surgeon or otolaryngologist (ear nose and throat) specialist can help determine if a septoplasty is the right option for you.
Common reasons that signal a need for deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area include:
Chronic Breathing Difficulties
If a deviated septum is causing persistent nasal obstruction—most frequently on one side more than the other—that interferes with normal breathing, surgery may be required to restore airflow.
Recurrent Sinus Infections
A deviated septum can contribute to blockages in the sinus cavities, leading to frequent sinus infections. If other treatments have failed, surgery might be considered.
Sleep Disturbances
Conditions like sleep apnea, which can be aggravated by nasal obstructions, may necessitate surgical intervention to improve airway function.
Non-Surgical Treatments Haven’t Worked
If you’ve tried other treatments (such as medications, nasal sprays, or allergy management) without relief, surgery may be recommended as the next step.
Patients often seek deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area when they have continued to struggle with chronic nasal issues despite using medication or other solutions. In these cases, they meet with Dr. Pearlman to explore their options for relief.
Other Causes of Nasal Issues
Chronic nasal problems can be frustrating and debilitating, affecting everyday life. While a deviated septum is a well-known culprit, it’s important to recognize that other factors, particularly turbinate and sinus issues, can also contribute to persistent nasal symptoms.
When they are chronically enlarged, some patients may need to consider turbinate surgery. If they have recurrent or chronic sinusitis, they may need to consider functional endoscopic sinus surgery.
Swollen Turbinates
The turbinates are bony structures inside the nasal passages that help regulate airflow and moisture. When these turbinates become enlarged—often due to chronic inflammation, allergies, or irritants—they can obstruct airflow, making breathing difficult. Turbinate surgery aims to reduce the size of these structures, improving airflow and alleviating congestion.
Polyps in the Sinuses
When chronic sinusitis is accompanied by significant blockage and sometimes polyps, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) may be recommended. This procedure involves the use of an endoscope to visualize the sinuses and remove obstructions or diseased tissue—opening up the sinuses so they flow better into the nose.
FESS can improve sinus drainage and restore normal function, leading to significant relief from symptoms. Patients often report improved breathing, reduced facial pain, and enhanced quality of life after undergoing this surgery.
A Combination of Concerns
In some cases, patients may have multiple issues contributing to their nasal symptoms. For example, someone with a deviated septum may also have enlarged turbinates and chronic sinusitis. In such situations, a comprehensive approach that addresses all underlying conditions may be necessary. This could involve a combination of septoplasty, turbinate reduction, and FESS to achieve optimal results.
What to Look for in a Nose Surgeon
When searching for a surgeon to perform your deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area, it’s essential to prioritize finding a nose surgeon with significant experience—specifically in septoplasty and related nasal surgeries.
Board Certification and Specialization
A facial plastic surgeon and/or otolaryngologist who specializes in nose surgeries has a deep understanding of nasal anatomy, including the intricate structures of the septum, cartilage, and bone. This specialized knowledge allows them to navigate the complexities of the procedure effectively.
Board-certified facial plastic and otolaryngology surgeons have completed extensive education and training. They typically undergo a minimum of five years of residency training after medical school, followed by additional fellowship training in their specialty.
You’ll also want a surgeon whose practice is primarily focused on rhinoplasty and septoplasty. This focus and experience translate into refined surgical skills. A seasoned surgeon is likely to have performed numerous septoplasties, equipping them with the techniques and dexterity needed to achieve optimal results, even in challenging cases.
Overview of a Septoplasty: What to Expect
Understanding what you can expect during the septoplasty process can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for the surgery and recovery.
Consultation
At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, prior to a deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area, patients will have a thorough consultation with Dr. Pearlman.
During the consultation, Dr. Pearlman will ask you about the specific symptoms you’re experiencing. This can include persistent nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, sinus infections, snoring, or any other issues that may be affecting your quality of life. Understanding your symptoms will help him tailor the surgical approach to your unique situation.
Dr. Pearlman will conduct a thorough physical examination of your nasal passages. This typically involves using a nasal speculum and a headlight to closely inspect the interior of your nose. He will assess the alignment of your septum and identify any other anatomical issues, such as enlarged turbinates or signs of inflammation. If any areas require closer inspection, he may also use a nasal endoscope.
Day of Surgery
A septoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of your case. The procedure usually takes about 30 to 90 minutes.
During the surgery, Dr. Pearlman makes an incision inside the nostrils to access the septum. He will then remove or reposition the cartilage and bone as necessary to straighten the septum and improve airflow. This approach usually leaves no visible external scars.
After the surgery, you’ll be monitored for a short period in a recovery area before being discharged. Because sedation or general anesthesia is used, you will need someone to drive you home.
Patients will receive specific aftercare instructions to follow, including how to manage swelling, congestion, and any discomfort.
Historically, most nasal surgeons use nasal packing post-operatively for one to three days. Dr. Pearlman has perfected the technique where no packing is required in 99% of patients—significantly reducing postoperative pain.
Planning for Recovery
The initial recovery period usually lasts about 1 week. During this time, it’s important to follow the post-operative instructions carefully. In rare circumstances, you may have nasal packing placed inside your nostrils to control bleeding and support healing. Dr. Pearlman typically removes this packing within a few days.
Swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose are common but will gradually subside. It’s best to keep your head elevated while resting to minimize swelling.
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over for three weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and ensure that everything is on track.
Expected Outcomes
Most patients experience significant improvements in breathing and overall nasal function following a septoplasty. While results can vary from a deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area, patients often find that their quality of life improves.
Keep in mind that it may take some time for your nose to fully heal, and the final results may not be evident for several months.
After the surgery, patients often report better sleep quality, increased energy levels, and an overall sense of well-being. With improved airflow, many find that they can participate in physical activities more comfortably, whether it’s exercising, playing sports, or simply enjoying time outdoors.
Breathe Easier With a Corrected Septum
You deserve to have the best quality of life possible, and a deviated septum can have a negative impact by hindering your breathing, sleep, and comfort. A septoplasty will give you the ability to breathe easily and comfortably.
If you’re ready to learn more about deviated septum surgery in New Jersey and the tri-state area, consider booking your consultation with Dr. Steven Pearlman today.
Dr. Pearlman is uniquely dual board-certified in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and in otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery (ENT). He has performed over 7,500 rhinoplasties and septoplasties in his career and has been chosen as a Top Doctor by New York Magazine and Castle Conolly.
