Septoplasty is a procedure in which a crooked septum is straightened. A crooked septum can cause both breathing obstruction and an external nasal deformity. Septoplasty is one of the most common procedures performed by the otolaryngologist-head & neck surgeon, as well as by facial plastic surgeons.

Generally speaking, a septoplasty does not alter the external appearance of the nose. If such a change is desired, as is often the case, a septoplasty can be combined with a rhinoplasty, a nasal reshaping procedure.

Insurers will usually consider covering costs associated with septoplasty if it is done to treat a breathing obstruction. However, the nasal reshaping or rhinoplasty is seldom covered, and such expenses would be the responsibility of the patient.

A consultation with Dr. Most can help him determine if septoplasty is appropriate for you. His double-board certification in otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery makes him uniquely qualified for nasal aesthetic and functional surgery.

The Procedure

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are internal. Patients may expect 5-7 days of swelling in the nose. Dr. Most uses absorbable sutures that do not need to be removed, and uses advanced techniques that allow him to avoid packing in most cases.

Why should I choose Dr. Most?

As a double-certified Otolaryngologist and Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Most is uniquely qualified in surgery of the face, and the nose in particular. Dr. Most has many years experience and has served as Chief of Facial Plastic Surgery at two of the top medical centers in the United States. As of July 1, 2006, he is Chief of the Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University. Dr. Most is nationally recognized for his expertise in rhinoplasty surgery. He has written extensively on this subject, including work on improving surgical outcomes. He has contributed as lead author to the major textbook on Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery on this topic, and his work in this area was recently selected for a 'best of' paper in Facial Plastic Surgery. In 2005, he has been a faculty member at the nationally recognized Rhinoplasty Course at OHSU in Portland, Oregon. A leader in the field, he has received national awards for his work. He performs hundreds of facial plastic surgery procedures each year. His patient comments reflect his personal philosophy for excellence.

I am interested! What is the next step?

If you are interested in this procedure, Dr. Most will personally evaluate you to determine if it is right for you. Please contact the Stanford Facial Plastic Surgery Office via phone (650) 736-FACE or (736-3223) to make a consultation appointment with Dr. Most. You may also email us at info@drmost.com for more information or to make an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!