Septoplasty, also known as deviated septum surgery, or septum surgery, is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum. Septoplasty involves straightening the septum, which allows for better airflow through the nose. This procedure straightens the septum by either trimming, repositioning, or replacing the cartilage or bone — sometimes both.
Individuals who have a deviated septum may have trouble breathing or may experience frequent nosebleeds. Additionally, this condition can cause frequent nasal or sinus infections, as well as general discomfort. For these reasons, many people seek to have a septoplasty.
If you’re preparing to have septoplasty, you may be wondering what the procedure costs. Learn more about the financials of septoplasties and the factors that can influence the total cost.
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How Much Does a Septoplasty Cost?
Septoplasties are a common procedure in the United States. This surgical procedure is only recommended by doctors after other less invasive treatments for nasal blockages are ruled out.
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the national average cost for a septoplasty is $10,219. There are certain variables that can affect the total cost of an individual’s surgery, such as your insurance provider. We break down these variables below.
Typical Costs
Because this surgery involves the reshaping of the nose, septoplasties require a skilled surgeon. While septoplasty surgeons are not hard to come by, they do charge a considerable amount for this type of procedure. The AHRQ reports varying prices for septoplasty, which can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $30,000. It all depends on what needs to be done during the surgery, such as cartilage scoring, contouring, or skin grafts.
Additional Costs
Post-operation, patients may choose to invest in additional costs so that recovery is more comfortable. Things like cold compresses, vaporizers, or humidifiers — which can make it easier to breathe during recovery time — range in price. Similarly, some patients may require post-op follow-up appointments. These appointments may come with added co-pay fees, depending on the insurance provider and surgical facility.
There are risks associated with having a deviated septum surgery. Patients may experience bleeding, infection, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. In addition, post-op symptoms may include a decreased sense of smell or blood clots in the nasal passage. If these complications occur, an additional procedure may be required to correct them — at an added cost.
Insurance
Most health insurance providers cover the costs of septoplasty, especially when it is done to correct a medical issue. Insurance will typically only deny the claim if the septoplasty is done in conjunction with a rhinoplasty, which is deemed a cosmetic surgery. Despite insurance coverage, patients may incur costs such as a co-pay to see a specialist, or hospital stays, depending on the patient.
Discounts
If you’re concerned about the costs associated with deviated septum surgery, you may be eligible for a discount. Depending on the surgeon, you may be able to save a percentage if you make payments in cash. Additionally, some surgical facilities offer a discounted rate to uninsured patients. Ask your doctor if they offer any of these programs that can help offset having to pay for the surgery all at once.
What if I Can’t Afford Deviated Septum Surgery?
If you can’t afford the cost of the surgery, you don’t have to give up quite yet. Check with your local surgery office to see if there are payment plans or possible discounts for upfront cash payments.
If you cannot afford to pay in cash, your doctor may have a payment plan program available. Ask your surgeon’s office about special discounts or payment plans that they offer to see if you qualify.
If time is not a big issue, you can create a budget to help you save money for the cost of surgery later on down the road.
How to Pay for Deviated Septum Surgery
There are a number of different ways you can pay for deviated septum surgery. To offset the costs of the surgery, you may want to plan it out and start saving money accordingly. Estimate the total cost of your surgery, including recovery time, then estimate the amount you would need to pay in full. Or if you surgeon allows payment plans, estimate the monthly payment amount.
Another way to pay for deviated septum surgery is to claim it as a medical expense on your taxes. The IRS only allows you to deduct the amount of your total medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.
If you cannot afford to have surgery on a deviated septum, you may be eligible for a medical loan. This type of personal loan can be used for various medical treatments, including septoplasty. They can be secured or unsecured loans, depending on whether they require collateral. Research to find out if medical loans are a viable option for your septoplasty.
Just as you would with any surgery, be prepared for unexpected expenses that may arise, such as costs associated with pre-op and post-op. The medical exams required prior to and after a deviated septum surgery are to ensure that you receive the best care possible, so it’s important to follow through with them.
Before you invest in surgery for a deviated septum, do your research. Your due diligence will help you decide if the surgery is right for you as well as how to pay for it.
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