Septoplasty/Rhinoplasty - Alexandria, VA

I had cleft palate and sinus surgery at a young age due to a birth defect. While the doctor at the time did a fantastic job to fix me, I've noticed that I've had increasing sinus problems over the last few years. As a result, I went to see Dr. Swamy to learn about what I could do to address my problems.

As it turns out, I have a deviated septum and sinus issues that will require a septoplasty as well as permanent tubes in my ears. I learned this after Dr. Swamy ordered a CT Scan followed by an MRI (to rue out anything more serious as well as to get a better look at what was going on since this isn't a typical case).

During the two visits that I've had so far, I've inquired as to whether or not I could also do a rhinoplasty since I'm going to the trouble of having all of the other stuff done. As it turns out, I can AND insurance will cover the cost to do the required procedures, while I will pay out of pocket for the elective portion. For me, this really is a win-win and I'm so excited to see the end result!

I have my pre-op on November 2nd so I'm assuming that I will get the pre and post-op care info and prescriptions that day. I'm also hoping that I will be able to learn more about how I can manage my anxiety leading up to the surgery. I have GAD and am pretty anxious already so I can only imagine how I will be leading up to and the day of surgery. Has anyone else had this concern? What did you or the doctor do to address the issue? I'd really hate to be the runaway patient!

I'll be sure to post more after I go to my pre-op!

I had my pre-op visit the other day. Everything seems to be ok, other than the feeling of dread after reviewing the risks with my nurse. The doctor is very confident that everything will be fine... I guess he should be confident or else no one would go through with the surgery, eh? Oh yea, he also took pictures and said he would photoshop them to show me what I can expect to look like afterwards. I will post them her if I get them.

Anyway, I asked my doctor about getting an anti anxiety for my pre-op hysteria. He obliged and prescribed me a few valium. He also prescribed an antibiotic, pain meds and an anti-nausea medication.

So far, my nervousness has been kept at bay. I can only imagine that it will grow as I get closer to the date.

I just realized that I did not post a follow up after my surgery. My septo/rhinoplasty went very well. I can breath better than I ever have before and my nose looks great! Interestingly enough, no one has asked me about my nose; just another day at the office.

The pain I experienced afterwards was not too bad. I looked horrible and slept most of the day after surgery but that time flew by. The worst part of the recovery was sleeping elevated and the post op visits. Seriously, make sure you take half a valium and an advil when you go. The doctor will literally pull things out of your nose that you did not know where there; and this happens 2-3 times.

Overall, Dr. Swamy was great. He knows what he is doing, is very knowledgeable and has a great bedside manner. If you were ever on the fence about having this done, don't be. Just do it and enjoy your new, improved look and quality of life.