Is a plastic surgeon a good choice for fixing a deviated septum?

It may sound strange but I like the way my nose looks, it just doesn't work that well, especially the right nostril. I had an E.E.N.T. doctor do this when I was 17, but the results were not very good. I'm 53 now, and haven't found the obstruction any easier to deal with. Should I go to a plastic surgeon to get the deviated septum fixed?

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23 answers to “Is a plastic surgeon a good choice...”

A: Find a Rhinoplasty Surgeon who has experience correcting both functional and cosmetic issues

C. Spencer Cochran, MD

Choosing a qualified surgeon is the most important decision you can make when deciding to under go nasal surgery.  First and foremost, choose an surgeon who specializes in nasal surgery and who has experience correcting both functional problems (such as a deviated septum) and cosmetic problems. While... more

A: Accurate diagnosis and treatment plan are more important

Nick Slenkovich, MD

As a surgeon that has completed full residencies and holds current board certifications in both Plastic Surgery and ENT (American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery), I can tell you that an accurate diagnosis is a vital step toward treating your symptoms. To... more

A: Redo Rhinoplasty

Steven H. Williams, MD

There are some great answers here.  I agree that both ENT (facial plastic surgeons) and plastic surgeons are well trained to handle this issue. However, what you should focus on is finding a surgeon that also has experience in redo rhinoplasties.  Trying to fix a problem a second time around can lead... more

A: Figure out the problem first

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

The most important issue is to determine the cause of the obstruction, which may not be structural in nature. There are many causes including allergies which may better be treated with medications rather than surgery. First, figure out the problem. This may take several specialists including an allergist, ENT... more

A: Plastic or Facial Plastic Surgeon is an excellent choice

D.J. Verret, MD

Rhinoplasty (or nasal reshaping surgery) can be one of the most challenging surgical procedures. There are many plastic surgeons who perform excellent rhinoplasty procedures. Might I suggest even going one step further and find a facial plastic surgeon for your procedure. Facial plastic surgeons are generally... more

A: a plastic surgeon is a great choice

Shahram Salemy, MD

The short answer is "yes". I think either a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or an Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon who is also properly trained will do just fine. Don't let your previous experience when you were 17 discourage you-- if you're having difficulty with your airway, there is usually a good and safe... more

A: Yes

Armen Vartany, MD

Plastic Surgeons (Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery) are well trained in both the cosmetic and functional aspect of the nose.  I would suggest, however, to go to a plastic surgeon who does a lot of nasal surgery. Some plastic surgeons do not do a lot of nasal surgery and a phone call to... more

A: Any sinus problems?

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Both plastic surgeons and otolaryngologists are trained in the correction of functional problems of the nose, so either would be a good choice.  If you have frequent sinus problems, e.g. sinusitis, you may need to have a procedure that allows the sinuses to drain better (functional endoscopic sinus... more

A: Make sure nasal surgery is a mainstay of their practice.

Manish H. Shah, MD

You can use the services of either a General Plastic Surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and functional nasal surgery, or an ENT/Facial Plastic Surgeon who specializes in the aforementioned. Board-certification is a must. Preoperative evaluation of your breathing issues with a CT scan may bring forth other... more

A: Go to an ear, nose, and throat doctor for breathing problems.

George J. Beraka, MD

If you like the shape of your nose, you don't need a plastic surgeon ( or even a facial plastic surgeon). You need someone who specializes in fuctional problems of the nose and sinuses.  And you need a good evaluation.  Breathing problems are often not caused by a deviated septum. Make sure you have... more

Comments

i think the best choice for functional problems of the nose are ent surgeons.although many plastic surgeons are very good on septoplasty.

Scott M.
2 posts
13 Jan 2009

I have had nasal and airway surgery in 1984. My 18 year old son just had it this past November by the same doctor who is fantastic. We both have had great results no pain and little bruising with our surgery.

Scott M.
2 posts
13 Jan 2009

We both had airway reconstruction also. Both of us had badly broken noses. My son's was much worse than mine his right side airway was crushed.

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