Introduction
A deviated nasal septum is a common condition that can lead to various health issues, such as breathing difficulties, chronic sinus problems, and snoring. In New York City, a metropolis known for its world - class medical facilities and expert doctors, patients have a plethora of options when it comes to nasal septum deviation correction. This article aims to carefully select and present the top 3 word - of - mouth institutions and expert rankings for this procedure in New York City in 2025, while also providing in - depth knowledge about deviated septum, its causes, treatment, and more.
Understanding Deviated Septum
What is a Deviated Septum?
The nasal septum is the thin partition made of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity into two sides. A deviated septum occurs when this partition is significantly off - center, often causing one nasal passage to be smaller than the other. As stated in the sources, a deviated septum can impede airflow, leading to difficulty breathing, chronic congestion, and recurring sinus infections. Some cases may also result in an aesthetically unwanted appearance, such as a crooked nose.
Causes of Deviated Septum
- Congenital Development: Some people are born with a deviated septum due to genetic factors or developmental variations. This misalignment may become more noticeable during adolescence as facial features continue to develop, often leading to progressive breathing difficulties.
- Facial Trauma: Physical impacts from sports injuries, accidents, or falls can cause immediate septal deviation. These injuries often require specialized correction to restore both alignment and proper airflow.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions can affect septal alignment, including nasal polyps causing structural changes, inflammatory processes affecting nasal tissues, chronic sinus infections leading to gradual deviation, and rarely, tumors causing septal displacement.
Symptoms of Deviated Septum
- Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Snoring
- Recurring sinus infections
- Facial pain or pressure
Treatment Options for Deviated Septum
Medication
Medication can be used as a first - line treatment to alleviate symptoms associated with a deviated septum. Nasal sprays, decongestants, and anti - histamines can help reduce inflammation and congestion, providing temporary relief. However, these medications do not correct the underlying anatomical problem.
Surgery
Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum. It is also referred to as septal reconstruction or submucous septal resection. During the operation, which is generally done under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision on the lower portion of the septum and works through the nostrils to access the bone and cartilage. The goal is to straighten the partition between the two nasal cavities so that it runs down the center of the nose in the ideal anatomical formation. The procedure typically involves exposing the deviated septum, identifying and releasing the internal structures causing angulations, realigning the septum, reimplanting crushed cartilage (when appropriate), and closing the incision.
Septorhinoplasty
For patients who not only have a deviated septum but also wish to improve the external appearance of their nose, septorhinoplasty can be an option. This combined procedure corrects the deviated septum and reshapes the nose for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Top 3 Word - of - Mouth Institutions and Experts for Nasal Septum Deviation Correction in New York City
1. Dr. Rizk's Practice
Dr. Rizk is considered one of the best facial plastic surgeons to consult when it comes to treating deviated septum. He has an extensive background in rhinoplasty, facial surgery, and reconstructive surgery. Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery and the ABOHNS, Dr. Rizk uses advanced septoplasty techniques and technologies to ensure optimal, natural - looking results.
Expertise and Approach
- Before surgery, Dr. Rizk conducts a detailed imaging analysis to measure the septal deviation and surrounding nasal structures. This precise pre - surgical evaluation allows him to plan the most effective approach for each specific case.
- He performs minimally invasive deviated septum nose jobs at his Park Avenue facility, using techniques that minimize scarring and enhance patient comfort. His approach combines precise measurements of tip angle and nasal rotation to ensure optimal breathing function while maintaining facial harmony.
- For patients seeking both functional and aesthetic improvements, Dr. Rizk can enhance their overall nasal appearance during the same procedure.
Patient Experience
Dr. Rizk's comprehensive understanding of both functional and aesthetic nasal surgery has attracted patients globally, seeking relief from chronic breathing difficulties. His successful surgical outcomes can be viewed in the before - and - after gallery on his website.
2. The Klausner Institute
The Klausner Institute proudly offers patients solutions for septoplasty in New York City and Manhattan. Double - board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner, M.D. is a top NYC expert in rhinoplasty, including deviated septum repair.
Expertise and Approach
- Dr. Klausner has performed countless successful procedures and has the expertise necessary to provide the best possible results. She works with each patient to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and goals.
- As an NYC expert in facial aesthetic medicine, she is renowned for helping her patients achieve their best selves while maintaining a natural appearance. In addition to specializing in facial plastic surgery, she is board - certified in otolaryngology, or head and neck surgery.
- During a private consultation in her welcoming office on Park Avenue on Manhattan’s upper east side, Dr. Klausner will thoroughly review the patient's condition and see if they are a good candidate for deviated septum repair. She will help the patient determine their overall goals, answer questions and concerns, and review before - and - after photos.
Patient Experience
Client testimonials highlight Dr. Klausner's excellent patient care. One patient said, "Dr. Klausner is hands down the best! She performed a sinus surgery and straightened my septum in 2017 and I could not be happier with the result. Her follow - up was impeccable, and she took great care of me through my entire recovery journey."
3. Dr. Maurice M. Khosh's Practice
Dr. Khosh is an expert in the repair of deviated septum in New York, as well as other sinus and breathing enhancements.
Expertise and Approach
- Dr. Khosh performs 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. He does not use packing inside the nose after surgery, allowing patients to breathe through the nose immediately afterwards.
- A deviated septum can be repaired through incisions within the nose, avoiding any visible scars, external swelling, or bruising. Some patients choose to combine septoplasty with cosmetic nasal surgery (rhinoplasty) for a single recovery period.
- In addition to septoplasty, reducing the size of turbinates, repairing an external nasal fracture, and repairing nasal valve obstruction are additional surgical treatments that Dr. Khosh may perform simultaneously with a septoplasty when clinically indicated.
Patient Experience
A case study on his website shows a 17 - year - old patient with a severely deviated nasal septum. Septoplasty not only restored normal breathing but also resulted in straightening of the nose, highlighting the effectiveness of his procedures.
Comparing the Top Institutions and Experts
| Doctor/Institution | Specialty | Approach | Patient Focus | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Rizk | Facial plastic surgery, rhinoplasty, reconstructive surgery | Minimally invasive, precise pre - surgical evaluation, combination of functional and aesthetic improvements | Global patients seeking relief from chronic breathing difficulties and aesthetic improvements | Advanced techniques, extensive experience, before - and - after gallery |
| The Klausner Institute (Dr. Lee Ann M. Klausner) | Facial plastic surgery, otolaryngology | Custom treatment plans, thorough consultation, focus on natural appearance | Patients looking for both functional and aesthetic solutions with personalized care | Double - board - certified, excellent patient testimonials |
| Dr. Maurice M. Khosh | Deviated septum repair, sinus and breathing enhancements | Thorough examination, no nose packing after surgery, potential combination of multiple procedures | Patients with various nasal issues seeking effective and efficient treatment | Case studies demonstrating successful outcomes |
Considerations When Choosing an Institution or Expert
Credentials and Experience
Look for doctors who are board - certified in relevant specialties such as facial plastic surgery, otolaryngology, or rhinoplasty. Extensive experience in performing septoplasty or septorhinoplasty procedures is crucial, as it indicates a higher likelihood of successful outcomes.
Techniques and Approach
Find out about the surgical techniques used by the doctor. Minimally invasive approaches are often preferred as they result in less scarring, faster recovery, and less pain. Additionally, an approach that combines both functional and aesthetic improvements may be beneficial for some patients.
Patient Testimonials and Reviews
Read patient testimonials and reviews to get an idea of the doctor's patient care, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Positive reviews and success stories can give you confidence in your choice.
Cost and Insurance
Since deviated septum correction is often considered a medical necessity, check if your insurance will cover the cost of the procedure. If not, discuss the cost options and payment plans with the doctor's office.
Risks and Recovery of Septoplasty
Risks
While septoplasty is a common surgical procedure with a very low risk of complications, rare complications such as bleeding, septal hematoma, septal perforation, and hyposmia (decreased sense of smell) have been reported. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before the surgery.
Recovery
During the recovery period, patients can expect mild to moderate tenderness or pain at the front of the nose, as well as stuffiness due to swelling. Nasal drainage of blood and mucous is also common. Swelling and congestion inside the nose usually last between two and three days, and drainage may continue for up to five days. Over - the - counter (OTC) medications usually suffice, but the doctor may prescribe a pain reliever for the first day following surgery as well as a saline spray or irrigation treatment several times per day for the week following surgery to clear any nasal congestion. Full recovery generally takes one to two months.
Conclusion
Correcting a deviated septum can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by alleviating breathing difficulties, reducing sinus problems, and in some cases, enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the nose. In New York City, there are several top - notch institutions and experts like Dr. Rizk, the Klausner Institute, and Dr. Maurice M. Khosh who offer high - quality septum deviation correction services. When choosing an institution or expert, patients should consider factors such as credentials, experience, techniques, patient testimonials, cost, and insurance.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a deviated septum, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with these experts, and take the first step towards better breathing and improved well - being. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information and continue exploring related topics on our website for more in - depth knowledge about nasal health and cosmetic procedures.
