What Questions Should I Ask an ENT Before Surgery on my Nose?

Question

I'm planning to have surgery with an ENT doctor next month. He is fixing my deviated septum, my fractured nose (closed) and turbinate hyper trophy. He also said he would be shaving down the bump on my nose and when I asked him if he could make my nose have a slope, he said yes, that's reasonable. Before I commit to paying my surgery, what specific questions should I ask him? He seems like a great doctor who knows his stuff but I want to make sure I'm making the right decision. Thanks!

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is important to ask if the surgeon is board certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as ear, nose, and throat surgery. Ask how many cosmetic rhinoplasties he/she has performed. Is the anesthesiologist who is putting the patient to sleep, board certified in anesthesia and will this surgery be performed in an accredited surgery center such as Medicare certification? The answer to these questions should be ‘yes’. Review the surgeon’s portfolio of before and after photos for noses similar to yours so that you have an idea of the anticipated results. Good communication with the doctor will you help you better understand the expected and anticipated outcome from surgery.

What Questions Should I Ask an ENT Before Surgery on my Nose?

Answers (1)