Would Fixing Deviated Septum Be Considered a Cosmetic Procedure?

Question

I'm looking into getting my deviated septum fixed in the near future. Would that be considered cosmetic even though I have trouble breathing and therefore makes  it seem medically required?

Behrooz Torkian, MD · Answer

A deviated septum that causes nasal obstruction may be covered by your medical insurance. The requirements of some insurance companies are that it has been evaluated by a specialist, and does not respond to medical treatment (like allergy pills or nasal sprays).
Most septum surgery does not cause a change in your nasal appearance. There are occasional cases in which a correction of the nasal septum may change or improve external appearance, but that would be considered a secondary outcome of the operation, and therefore applicable to insurance. The best way to know what would be covered in your particular case is to see your local nasal specialist, and review your symptoms with him/her.  The specialists office will be able to help you with your insurance coverage details.

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

The answer is no. A septoplasty is typically done for medically indicated reasons. Patients usually present with complaints of difficulty breathing thru their nose with no improvement from medical treatment. Because of this, medical insurance usually provides coverage for septoplasty surgery. If you are interested in also having your nose reshaped at the same time, I would recommend you consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon in your area.

C. Spencer Cochran, MD · Answer

A septoplasty, is the name for the surgery used to correct nasal obstruction resulting from a deviated (crooked) septum. Because a septoplasty does not change the shape of the nose, it is not considered a cosmetic procedure and is usually covered by health insurance.
A septoplasty is performed by making an incision on the inside of of the nose. The nasal lining covering the septum (the midline partition of cartilage and bone that separates one side of the nose from the other) is lifted off of the septum.  The portion of the septum that blocks the nasal passage is usually removed or relocated to relieve the obstruction.

David O. Volpi, MD · Answer

A septoplasty is a surgery designed to improve
breathing and to promote proper airflow to the nose. Meanwhile, a rhinoplasty-
or nose job- is performed for aesthetic purposes. It is primarily intended to
change the shape or size of the nose so that it fits in with other facial
features. For this reason, a septoplasty is not generally considered a cosmetic
procedure but rather, like you suggested, a medical requirement.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Correcting a deviated septum to improve breathing is generally considered a medically necessary procedure which would be covered by insurance. Ensure that you have the necessary supporting documentation from other physicians to meet your plan's requirements.

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Would Fixing Deviated Septum Be Considered a Cosmetic Procedure?

Answers (10)

Answer: Septoplasty Vs. Rhinoplasty

Answer: Septoplasty Vs. Rhinoplasty

Answer: Fixing Deviated Septum

Answer: Fixing Deviated Septum

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.