Septoplasty in NYC

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THE PROCEDURE

Improving Form And Function Of The Nose

Each year thousands of people undergo surgery of the nose. Nasal surgery may be performed for cosmetic purposes, or a combination procedure to improve both form and function. It also may alleviate or cure nasal breathing problems, correct deformities from birth or injury, or support an aging, drooping nose.

Patients who are considering nasal surgery for any reason should seek a doctor who is a specialist in nasal airway function, as well as plastic surgery. This will ensure that efficient breathing is as high a priority as appearance.

When Should Surgery Be Considered to Correct a Chronically Stuffy Nose?

Millions of Americans perennially suffer the discomfort of nasal stuffiness. This may be indicative of chronic breathing problems that don’t respond well to ordinary treatment. The blockage may be related to structural abnormalities inside the nose or to swelling caused by allergies or viruses.

There are numerous causes of nasal obstruction. A deviated septum (the partition between the nostrils) can be crooked or bent as the result of abnormal growth or injury. This can partially or completely close one or both nasal passages. The deviated septum can be corrected with a surgical procedure called septoplasty. Cosmetic changes to the nose are often performed at the same time, in a combination procedure called septorhinoplasty.

Overgrowth of the turbinates is yet another cause of stuffiness. (The turbinates are the tissues that line the inside of the nasal passages.) Sometimes the turbinates need treatment to make them smaller and expand the nasal passages. Treatments include injection, freezing, and partial removal. Allergies, too, can cause internal nasal swelling, and allergy evaluation and therapy may be necessary.

Can Surgery Correct a Stuffy, Aging Nose?

Aging is a common cause of nasal obstruction. This occurs when cartilage in the nose and its tip are weakened by age and droop because of gravity, causing the sides of the nose to collapse inward, obstructing air flow. Mouth breathing or noisy and restricted breathing are common.

Try lifting the tip of your nose to see if you breathe better. If so, the external adhesive nasal strips that athletes have popularized may help. Or talk to a facial plastic surgeon/otolaryngolgist about septoplasty, which will involve trimming, reshaping or repositioning portions of septal cartilage and bone. (This is an ideal time to make other cosmetic improvements as well.) Soft silicone splints are placed in the nostrils for 1 week to hold the septum in its new position. Patients may experience some internal swelling for a week or two. However, after the silicone splints are removed, most people enjoy a dramatic improvement in breathing that continues several weeks after surgery.

"I am very happy with the results."

“Prior to the consultation, I was very uneasy about getting fillers in my cheeks because I didn’t want to look unnatural or feminine. Dr. Zimm senses my concerns and was very patient…before leaving his office, I knew exactly what to expect over the next few days after the injection. All in all, I am very happy with the results and I’m glad I found Dr. Zimm’s office.”
"My breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion was beautifully done."

“…As a healthcare provider myself, I have worked with many physicians over the years and I can attest to his competence and professionalism. His practice is extremely well run and his excellent bedside manner, astute medical knowledge and involvement in the latest research put me at ease and allowed for me to completely trust his abilities… His passion for his field of work is evident, and I am extremely satisfied with the outcome of my sinus reconstruction and rhinoplasty -- my breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion is beautifully done.”
"World-class Surgeon with a Small-town Manner"

“I was really impressed by how much he knew about state-of-the art surgical techniques and practiced them. He is clearly an extremely skilled surgeon. He is also a very intelligent and kind person. As someone who doesn't love the idea of surgery, I felt comfortable and confident… As someone who works as a professor and an artist, I can say that Dr. Zimm sets a high bar for engaging with people and teaching them about their condition, for putting people at ease and building trust, and for clearly being passionate about both the artistry and the technical dexterity of his work. I couldn't recommend him more.”
"He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty."

“Need a perfect, natural-looking nose? Go nowhere else but to Dr. Zimm!...Being involved in the industry myself, I went to 13 different rhinoplasty consultations in NYC to find the right surgeon. After hearing lots of opinions, prices and seeing different images of the "perfect" nose, I chose Dr. Zimm. He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty. He also didn't have a "signature" nose he puts on every one of his patients (walk around the UES and you'll know what I'm talking about). He is truly an amazing surgeon and anyone who works with him at the hospital will tell you the same.”
"Dr. Zimm made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member."

“Working in the industry I have had the opportunity to work with many surgeons and am always very particular when choosing a physician myself, family, friends and so forth. Dr. Zimm recently performed a Blepharoplasty on me in his office. I consulted with 10 surgeons before moving forward and scheduling this surgery. Without hesitation, I have to say I could not have made a better choice in surgeons!!!! Dr. Zimm was confident and competent, he also had a wonderful bedside manner and made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member of his own. Fantastic! Not to mention the results are amazing!!!! Completely natural, but amazing Thank you Dr. Zimm!!!!!!”
"Warm and extremely professional"

I am not one to write reviews, but Dr. Zimm deserves one. I had numerous consultations with other top rhinoplasty surgeons across the country but as soon as I had my consultation with Dr. Zimm, I immediately felt he was the right surgeon for me. I am very thankful I chose him. Heather and his entire staff have been warm and extremely professional. He is a brilliant surgeon. I can’t say enough positive things about my experience and would recommend him to anyone looking for a kind, patient, artistic surgeon.
"From the moment you step into Dr. Zimm's office you feel at ease."

"I spent the bulk of my life feeling self conscious about how my ears were set on my head, and I started to look around for surgeons for my otoplasty to help correct them. After my first meeting with Dr. Zimm, I cancelled my remaining consultations with other surgeons. Dr. Zimm and his staff make you feel at ease and informed at every step of the process. From the consistent and clear communication all the way through to the fantastic results and follow up care, Dr. Zimm was without a doubt the right choice to handle my case. Thank you Dr. Zimm and team!"

Is a septoplasty a major surgery?

No. While septoplasty is a surgical procedure and does carry risks such as bleeding, infections, and numbness, it is not typically considered a major surgery. However, any surgical procedure should be approached with caution especially when general anesthesia is involved. Before a septoplasty in New York City, your surgeon will thoroughly review your medical history to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure and at low risk of any complications.

How long does it take to recover from a septoplasty?

A septoplasty in Manhattan is performed as an outpatient procedure allowing patients to return home the same day of the procedure. Immediately following the procedure, swelling and discomfort can be expected and will resolve within the first week. It can take up to three to four weeks before patients can return to normal activities, and up to three months before the nose is fully healed from the procedure.

Is fixing a deviated septum worth it?

A deviated septum surgery can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life, improving their breathing, quality of sleep, and nasal discomfort. Therefore, for many, it is a life-changing procedure. However, the benefits must be weighed against the risks of the surgery to make a well-informed decision and to determine if the procedure is right for you.

Obtaining a consultation with one of the top septoplasty doctors in New York City will provide a customized treatment recommendation, as well as the expected outcomes of the procedure.

Is a septoplasty a permanent fix?

Yes. The results of a septoplasty provide a permanent fix for the complications associated with a deviated septum. Unlike many non-surgical treatment options, such as nasal strips and medications, which provide temporary relief, a septoplasty targets the root cause of the problem to provide long-lasting relief. By addressing the soft-tissue and bony issues resulting in a deviated septum, patients may experience a significant life-long improvement in their breathing and nasal comfort.

How painful is a septoplasty?

While the benefits of septoplasty and sinus surgery can be profound for patients, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with the procedure. One consideration should include the discomfort and pain associated with the procedure.

After septoplasty, it is not uncommon to have swelling, discomfort, and temporary sensory changes such as numbness and tingling. While these symptoms typically resolve within the first week of surgery they can produce significant discomfort for some patients and thus must be considered when deciding to proceed with the procedure.

Will my voice change after septoplasty?

New research shows that patients undergoing a septoplasty can experience varying degrees of changes in voice quality after surgery. These changes are often subtle but can be apparent to trained listeners. Patients can also perceive these changes to some extent but these alterations do not typically cause any interference in their daily lives.