How to Choose the Best Deviated Septum Doctor in Houston

A deviated septum can cause breathing difficulties, frequent sinus infections, and chronic congestion, significantly affecting your quality of life. If you suspect you have a deviated septum, choosing the right doctor is key to getting the best treatment. Houston is home to many skilled ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists, but how do you determine which one is best for you?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about deviated septums, treatment options, and how to choose the right deviated septum doctor in Houston for you. If you’re considering septoplasty or other treatments, contact Kaplan Sinus Relief for expert evaluation and care.

What is a deviated septum?

The septum is the cartilage and bone that separates your nostrils. When the septum is off-center or crooked, it is called a deviated septum. While some people are born with this condition, others may develop it due to an injury or trauma.

Deviated septum causes

A deviated septum can result from various causes, including:

• Congenital condition: Some people are born with a naturally crooked septum.
• Injury or trauma: A blow to the nose from sports, accidents, or physical altercations can cause the septum to shift.
• Normal aging: As you age, changes in the nasal structure may worsen an existing deviation.
• Previous nasal surgery: A past procedure may have unintentionally altered the septum’s alignment.

Deviated septum symptoms

You’re having issues sleeping:Can a deviated septum cause snoring? Yes! A deviated septum can make it more difficult to breathe through your nose, which can ultimately have an impact on your quality of sleep. This can lead to additional issues like snoring, and can leave you feeling fatigued throughout the day. Deviated septums leading to sleep apnea is also common for those with sleep-apnea-related sleep issues. 

You’re struggling to breathe through your nose in general: Aside from difficulty breathing through your nose while you’re sleeping, regularly struggling to breathe through your nose during the day can also be an indicator that you’re suffering from deviated septum issues.

You’re having sense-of-smell issues: In some instances, a deviated septum can actually impact your sense of smell and taste. If you notice this sign along with other nasal-related issues, seek out an ENT.

You’re suffering from sinus infections: A deviated septum can create less-than-perfect conditions within your nose and lead to repeated sinus infections as a result. 

You’re experiencing regular nose bleeds: The restricted airflow inside your nose can create dry conditions. This can cause bloody noses on a semi-regular basis.

Keep in mind that many of these symptoms can also occur because of other nasal issues. So, if you are experiencing any of these signs, a deviated septum doctor in Houston can help you narrow down what issue (or issues) you’re dealing with.

What kind of doctor fixes deviated septums?

If you’re contemplating deviated septum surgery, then you’ll need to seek out an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor, also called a sinus doctor or sinus surgeon. These doctors are trained in performing septoplasty, which is a common surgical procedure meant to improve breathing and fix a crooked septum.

How do they fix a deviated septum?

During the procedure, the doctor must reform and reposition your nose cartilage to achieve deviated septum relief. While some deviated septum situations only require a simple realignment, other cases may have multiple issues at play. For these reasons, it’s important to do your research and find an experienced and skilled ENT doctor.

If a deviated septum is causing significant discomfort or health issues, treatment may be necessary. Options range from non-surgical methods to surgical procedures like septoplasty:

Septoplasty surgery is a common surgical procedure and deviated septum remedy. During the procedure:

1. The surgeon straightens and repositions the septum.
2. Any obstructive bone or cartilage is removed or reshaped.
3. The nasal lining is preserved to promote healing.

Septoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia and typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Recovery involves mild swelling and congestion for a few weeks, but most patients resume normal activities within a few days.

However, you may still be wondering how to fix a deviated septum without surgery. Well, for mild cases, non-surgical treatments may provide relief, including:

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays that reduce inflammation and improve airflow.
• Decongestants to temporarily relieve nasal congestion.
• Allergy management, such as controlling allergies can help alleviate symptoms.
• Nasal strips designed to open nasal passages and improve nighttime breathing.

While these options may help manage symptoms, they do not correct the underlying issue.

What happens if you leave a deviated septum untreated?

Leaving a deviated septum untreated can lead to a number of issues, such as chronic sinus infections, worsening breathing difficulties, an increased risk of sleep apnea, as well as frequent nosebleeds and congestion.

In the long-term, a deviated septum can lead to a decreased quality of life due to persistent discomfort. If your symptoms interfere with daily life, it’s best to consult an ENT for a long-term solution.

Choosing the best deviated septum doctor in Houston

Finding the right specialist is essential for effective treatment. Here are four key steps to help you choose the right deviated septum doctor in Houston for you:

1. Ask your primary care physician for a referral

Your primary care physician (PCP) can recommend an experienced ENT based on your medical history and symptoms. Referrals from a trusted doctor ensure that you receive care from a qualified specialist.

2. Read patient reviews and testimonials

Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight into a doctor’s expertise and patient satisfaction. Look for:

• Positive patient experiences
• High ratings on medical review platforms (Healthgrades, Zocdoc, Google Reviews)
• Specific mentions of septoplasty or sinus treatments

A doctor with consistently positive feedback and successful outcomes is a strong candidate.

3. Consider your insurance coverage

Before scheduling an appointment, check your insurance coverage to see which ENT specialists are in-network. Some important factors to consider include:

• Whether the doctor accepts your insurance plan
• Potential out-of-pocket costs for consultations or procedures
• Availability of payment plans if needed

Understanding these financial aspects can help you plan accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.

4. Get an initial consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule an initial consultation to assess the doctor’s approach and expertise. During the consultation, ask the following questions:

1. How severe is my deviated septum?
2. What treatment options are available for my condition?
3. Is septoplasty recommended for me?
4. What is the recovery time for septoplasty?
5. Will the procedure be painful or invasive?
6. What are the risks or complications associated with the surgery?
7. How many septoplasty procedures have you performed?
8. What kind of post-operative care do you offer?

A knowledgeable and transparent doctor will address your concerns and provide clear guidance on the best treatment plan.

Considering septoplasty surgery in Houston? Call Kaplan Sinus Relief

If you’re struggling with breathing problems, frequent sinus infections, or other symptoms of a deviated septum, expert care is just a call away. In your search for the best deviated septum doctor in Houston for your specific case, consider Dr. Michael Kaplan, who specializes in treating deviated septums using advanced techniques, including septoplasty and other minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty.

Our team is dedicated to helping you breathe easier and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief!

More Helpful Articles by Kaplan Sinus Relief:

• Can Sinus Infections Cause Jaw Pain?
• What to Do for a Severe Sinus Allergy Attack
• What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Mouth Breathing?
• What Is Rebound Congestion?
• Sinus Health Tips for the Cold and Flu Season