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Client Testimonial

Ever since I was a teenager, I had hard time breathing from my nose. Exercise was difficult because I had to breathe through my mouth. Dr. Khosh explained the problem and showed me pictures of the inside of my nose. My surgery and recovery happened exactly as Dr Khosh had stated. I had very little pain, and now I can breathe PERFECTLY!

Fred, New York, NY

Learn More

The nasal septum is the wall inside the nose that separates the two sides. Crookedness or deviation of the nasal septum can lead to blockage of one or both sides of the nose. Deviated septum typically manifests after the complete growth of the nose at the end of teenage years. The cartilage and bones inside the septum become misaligned leading to airway blockage. Nasal trauma is a common cause of septum deviation; however, in majority of patients, there is no clear history of nasal trauma. Septum deviation can cause snoring, recurrent sinus infections and dry mouth and throat.

Dr. Khosh is expert in repair of deviated septum in New York. A deviated septum can be repaired through incisions within the nose, avoiding any visible scars, external swelling, or bruising. Typically, repair of a deviated septum (septoplasty) does not alter the shape of the nose. Some patients choose to combine septoplasty with cosmetic nasal surgery (rhinoplasty). Combining septoplasty and cosmetic rhinoplasty is beneficial, since there is only one recovery from both procedures. In a minority of patients, the location of a deviated septum can cause an external nasal deformity. Septoplasty in these individuals will improve the external appearance of the nose, as well as, lead to improved breathing.

Reducing the size of turbinates, repairing an external nasal fracture, and repairing nasal valve obstruction are additional surgical treatments that may help improve nasal breathing. When clinically indicated, these other procedures can be performed simultaneously with septoplasty.

Prior to recommending any surgery, Dr. Khosh will perform a thorough physical examination of the nose, including nasal endoscopy. In certain cases, a CT scan of the nose and sinuses may also be recommended. In individuals with chronic sinus conditions, sinus drainage procedures can be combined with septoplasty. Dr. Khosh does not use packing inside the nose after surgery and patients can breathe through the nose immediately afterwards. One can return to work within three days of septoplasty, but one should avoid heavy exercise for two weeks. Deviated septum is a medical condition and the cost of surgery is typically covered by insurance companies.

  • 2010 Patients' Choice Award
  • 2008-2009 & 2010-2011 Best Doctor List.
  • Past President of New York Facial Plastic Surgery Society.
  • Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University.
  • Past Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at Columbia Univeristy.
  • Founding Member of new York Head & Neck Institute.
  • Affiliate Member of Vascular Birthmarks Institute of New York.
  • 2001 Columbia University Maxwell Abramson Teaching Award.

Case Study

This 17 year old presented with complaints of total nasal obstruction on the right side. Examination showed profound septum deviation to the right which was also causing external deviation of the nose to the left side. Septoplasty in this patient not only restored normal breathing, it also resulted in straightening of the nose.

  • Patient: 17 year-old with nasal obstruction
  • Problem: Severely deviated nasal septum
  • Procedure: Septoplasty

FAQS

What kind of anesthesia is used for deviated septum surgery?
General anesthesia is my preferred mode of anesthesia for performance of septoplasty. In general anesthesia, the patient is completely asleep and won't feel any discomfort or remember anything. In patients who prefer sedation, the anesthesiologist administers medication to make them comfortable. The procedure is then under taken while the patient naps.
How much pain can expect after deviated septum surgery?
Most patients do not require pain medication past the third post surgical day.
What is the difference between septoplasty and rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty only addresses the internal anatomy of the nose and does not alter the external shape of the nose. Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to change and improve the external nasal appearance.
What is the deference between septoplasty and SMR (Sub Mucous Resection)?
The two surgical terms are often used interchangeably. However, there is a technical difference between septoplasty and SMR. In SMR, the deviated portions of the nasal septum are shaved or removed. In septoplasty, septum cartilage or bone is reconfigured so that it is no longer crooked or blocking.

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