Would it be cheaper to get a septoplasty(covered by insurance) and rhinoplasty(out of pocket) or to get a rhinoplasty only?

Question

It was suggested by plastic surgeon to do septo due to slight deviation but I dont have much trouble breathing or with sinus

James Shire, MD · Answer

I know cost is an issue but it should not determine which surgery you have. That is determined by your nasal and airway problems and with a complete nasal and airway exam. The septum is an integral part of the nose and if the external nose needs surgery then most rhinoplasty surgeons would prefer to do both at the same time. And if there is a need for cartilage (for grafting) in performing the rhinoplasty, you would need a septum that is relatively intact. You should seek an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon  such as a facial plastic surgeon.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There is no reason to perform a septoplasty if  patients do not have trouble with breathing, congestion or sinus problems. There has to be a medical necessity documented in order to bill medical insurance for a  medically related procedure. The rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes and patients must pay for that portion themselves. For more information, diagrams and many examples, please see the link below

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Is this the old, Chicken before the egg issue?? There are ethical and legal issues at play here. Therefore over the internet responses should be guiding you to seek professional examinations to see if a true functional nasal deformity exists!

Michael R. Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

A deviated septum can be a cosmetic and/or functional problem  If you do not have nasal obstruction then the only reason to straighten the septum is for aesthetic reasons and this should not be submitted to insurance. If you do have nasal obstruction and want a cosmetic rhinoplasty you should have them performed in one operation.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

If you do not have trouble breathing, I would not recommend a septoplasty - bottom line. Septoplasty is safe but has risks which you shouldn't take on if you don't need to. It is possible to straighten the nose and reshape the nose during rhinoplasty without performing a complete septoplasty. With regard to cost, reimbursement to the surgeon for septoplasty is low ($500-1000) but you also have to consider facility and anesthesia charges which can cost $3000-7000 or more. For your safety and the safety of your bank account, if you don't have breathing problems, don't add on a septoplasty. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Would it be cheaper to get a septoplasty(covered by insurance) and rhinoplasty(out of pocket) or to get a rhinoplasty only?

Answers (5)

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