What Determines the Cost of Septoplasty?

If you are considering septoplasty surgery, or if your doctor has recommended it, you’re probably wondering how much it costs and what determines the cost. The truth is that it depends on your unique situation, including how complex the procedure you need is. It also depends on the location of the surgeon that will be performing your procedure, as well as his or her experience and reputation.

Below are answers to some of the questions you may have about the cost of septoplasty.

How does location influence the cost?

Septoplasty can vary significantly in cost based on where the surgeon is located. Typically, septoplasty costs more when performed by a surgeon in a major metropolitan area, especially if it is in the State of California or the Northeast.

How does experience influence cost?

The surgeon’s experience is another element that can influence the cost of septoplasty. Surgeons with less experience and training, who often lack board certification in otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat surgery) usually charge less for septoplasty than experienced surgeons do. Surgeons with board certification in both otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery have years of experience and training, and therefore can charge more, because they are more apt to produce the best possible results.

Can I use insurance to pay for septoplasty?

Unlike some nasal surgeries and all cosmetic facial plastic surgeries, septoplasty is often covered by insurance — but only when it is performed for functional reasons such as to improve breathing. If your motivation for undergoing septoplasty is to straighten your nose, but you are not experiencing breathing or other functional issues, your procedure will not be covered by your insurance. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance carrier, just to be sure.

Are costly surgeons better?

Surgeons that charge more are not necessarily better. For instance, a young surgeon located in a large urban area might charge more than an experienced surgeon that is located in a rural area. Comparing costs is just one of the many reasons you should schedule several consultations with different ear, nose and throat specialists (ENTs) in your area.

Should cost be a determining factor?

The reality is, when making a decision as important as undergoing septoplasty, cost will always be a determining factor. However, it should not be the main factor you consider when looking for a septoplasty surgeon. The surgery may be covered by your insurance anyhow, but if you feel you can’t afford to pay for the surgery, consider financing it rather than opting for a less experienced surgeon. Septoplasty is a complex surgery; searching for a discount is a bad idea.

Additional Factors to Consider

When considering septoplasty, safety and results should be your top priorities. Here are some other factors to consider:

Other treatments

You may not even need to have septoplasty surgery. Before making such an important decision, be sure to try less-invasive alternatives, if possible. Talk to your ENT to learn more about other possible treatments.

Choosing a surgeon

An experienced surgeon with board certification in otolaryngology as well as facial plastic surgery will be able to assess your health, medical history and specific needs to determine the best course of treatment. Make sure your surgeon has extensive experience performing septoplasty and related procedures.

Recovery

In the hours and days after your septoplasty surgery your nose will likely be bruised and sore, and you may feel nauseated.

You will stay at the surgical facility for two hours or longer. In rare cases patients are required to remain at the facility overnight for monitoring. Once you are cleared to leave the facility you will need to have a friend or family member drive you home.

Your nose and eye area will probably be puffy for a few days. Cold compresses and pain medications can help reduce swelling. You will need to keep your head elevated during this time. A friend or family member will need to monitor your temperature, because a high fever can indicate the presence of an infection.

For a few weeks you will need to be careful to remain on your back while sleeping. When you are able to resume work and other daily activities will depend on the progress of your recovery. After about two weeks the swelling should begin to subside, but swelling will most likely persist for at least a month.