Septoplasty involves the straightening and repositioning of the nasal septum or the bone and cartilage that divides your two nostrils. Mind you, most Americans do not have a straight nasal septum and majority don’t have to undergo surgery.
That said, who needs a septoplasty? Well, only those with severe displacement to the point that they can experience pain or difficulty in breathing.
Planning to subject yourself to the procedure? Here’s a guide on the septoplasty cost and ways to save on expenses.
Average Septoplasty Cost
The price of septoplasty (also known as deviated nasal septum surgery) greatly varies across the US. That said, web sites that discuss the costs of medical services in the country have different averages.
For instance, the deviated septum surgery cost range by Amino is from $5,152 to $12,633. The median price, according to the web site, is $8,131. Note that these figures were based on actual ranges that the site collated from different states. They even provided a list of the least and most expensive cities for undergoing septoplasty.
Another website, the Health Care Blue Book, says that the fair price for septoplasty is $4,489. The fair price pertains to the reasonable amount you should pay for a medical service.
But, similar to the above range, the deviated septum surgery cost in the said site show big differences. The fees you will pay can go anywhere from $3,591 to $11,222.
The exact deviated nasal septum surgery cost will depend on:
- Where you are in the US
- The hospital or clinic you choose, and
- Whether you’re paying out-of-pocket or through an insurance company
Cost Considerations
Basing our price range from the given figures above, the deviated nasal septum surgery cost can start at $3,500 and go as high as $12,000+. How expensive the operation is will depend on the factors we earlier mentioned.
That said, note that some hospitals and surgery centers may discount fees for their facilities if you’re paying in cash. However, ask for a request quote first as those same establishments may not include professional and anesthetic fees in their pricing.
Note also that the above prices only cover the surgery itself. Hence, you should set aside another budget for pre-surgery procedures, aftercare, and medicines.
Sample Costs
Another way to know about the prices, especially if you want to know the costs in your area, is to request for quotes from the hospital or center.
Most of the providers, after all, don’t post their pricings online. Nevertheless, you can contact them via phone or email to get the figures.
While we’ve mentioned that “most” don’t post their prices online, a few do show upfront costs. One of them is the Surgery Center of Oklahoma, who claims that they’ve been posting fees since 2009.
The said center has two services to correct a deviated nasal septum including:
- Complex septoplasty: $3,900
- Complex septoplasty with valve repair: $5,800
Aside from contacting hospitals, you can also check estimated prices in different locations through PricingHealthCare.com. This method is helpful for those who have yet to decide on their choice of hospital or center.
To search for prices, you only need to select a region and the site will generate a list of service providers in that area.
Take note that the estimates they provide are only applicable for patients who will pay the entire fee in advance (usually in cash). That explains why most of the prices on the site are much lower.
Medical Tourism
There are times when opting for a surgery abroad may be more cost-effective than at home. That’s because hospitals in other countries charge lower for septoplasty. In fact, a quick check in Medigo.com will show you prices as low as $1,180!
Of course, you have to do some thorough research before you fly to another country for the procedure. Investigate if the hospital provides efficient service despite the low cost and whether there are hidden charges or none.
Also, consider the other side of the expenses such as transportation and travel documents. Yes, you might save on the surgery costs. But, if the travel itself is more expensive, then what’s the point of looking for a cheaper procedure abroad?
What To Expect
What will happen when you undergo a deviated septum surgery? Here are some points you can expect:
- Generally, a septoplasty is an out-patient procedure. It means you can go home the same day after the surgery.
- The operation takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition.
- You’ll be under local or general anesthesia, depending on your doctor’s advice. Most patients, though, choose the latter.
- During the surgery, your doctor will make an incision in your nose and adjust the septum to its correct position. Depending on the complexity, you might need stitches to keep your nose in place.
- Full recovery of cartilage and nasal tissues can take up to a year.
- Some patients will have to return for another surgery if their septum becomes deviated again.
- Some procedures will require a rhinoplasty (or nose plastic surgery).
Products For Aftercare
After a successful operation, what’s next for you? Well, there might be problems for those who wear glasses. After all, how can you use your spectacles if your nose is still recovering?
Fortunately, there is an available NoseComfort Eyeglass Support from Amazon. This ingenious item can hold your glasses in place while keeping it from touching your nose. The product is light and comfortable to wear making it a hit among customers.
If you can’t undergo the surgery now, you can also purchase the online store’s 8-set Premium Anti-Snore Aid. Sufferers of deviated septum have snoring problems so this affordable product can help reduce them.
Money Saving Tips
Undergoing septoplasty is expensive regardless if you end up paying $3,000+ or $12,000+. That said, are there ways to cut down on costs?
Leverage your insurance plan.
Well, the first thing that may come to mind is to get the help of your insurance company. Most plans cover septoplasty as long as it’s medically necessary.
That said, check with your insurance company their coverage for the said procedure. Also, you can save more if your surgeon and anesthesiologist are in-network.
Lastly, your coinsurance, copay, and deductible will determine whether you’ll pay less or more on out-of-pocket costs. So, make sure to contact your company to determine your plan’s status.
Request price estimates from multiple providers.
Get quotes from hospitals and surgery centers in your area and compare them with our average price. This way, you’ll find it easier to determine where it will be most cost-effective.
Try visiting an independent surgery center.
Independent specialty surgery centers may charge lower than hospitals. That said, check the credibility of the center before you get lured by its affordable prices.
May you have a successful surgery!