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Improve Your Nasal Breathing With Turbinate Reduction

If you’re experiencing problems with nasal airflow, it could potentially be a result of enlarged turbinates. Turbinates are small, bony structures covered by soft tissue within your nasal passages that help filter, warm, and moisten air as it enters your lungs. If the turbinates are enlarged due to conditions like chronic sinusitis or allergies, they can obstruct the airflow, leading to difficulty breathing, snoring, and recurrent sinus infections. At Dion Health Services, we offer a procedure called turbinate reduction that can reduce the size of your nasal turbinates and alleviate these symptoms.

What Is Turbinate Reduction?

Turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size of your turbinates. The purpose of this surgery is to improve nasal airflow and alleviate breathing problems often caused by turbinate hypertrophy (enlarged turbinates).

Reasons for Turbinate Reduction:

  • Chronic nasal congestion
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Recurrent sinus infections

Turbinate reduction surgery can be performed using several different methods depending on the patient’s unique needs.

Surgical Methods for Turbinate Reduction:

  • Radiofrequency Reduction: Uses radiofrequency energy to shrink turbinates.
  • Coblation: Utilizes radio frequency energy and saline to reduce turbinate size.
  • Cauterization: Applies heat to remove tissue and reduce turbinate size.
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Benefits of Turbinate Reduction

For individuals with enlarged turbinates, turbinate reduction can provide quite a few benefits, including the following:

  • Better Airflow: By reducing the size of the turbinates, you will experience improved airflow, making breathing easier, especially if you have been suffering from chronic nasal obstruction.
  • Reduction in Nasal Congestion: If you frequently face nasal congestion, particularly at night, turbinate reduction may help alleviate this discomfort.
  • Improved Sleep: With less nasal obstruction, you may notice a decrease in snoring and the symptoms of sleep apnea. Better breathing at night can lead to more restful sleep and increased energy during the day.
  • Fewer Sinus Infections: Improved airflow can decrease the occurrence of sinus infections by facilitating better sinus drainage.
  • Less Reliance on Medications: You might find a reduced need for nasal sprays or other medications to manage your nasal symptoms after the procedure.
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What to Expect During Turbinate Reduction Surgery

Turbinate reduction surgery is a procedure aimed at improving airflow through your nose. At Dion Health Services, your procedure will typically consist of the following steps:

Before Surgery

Before you undergo turbinate reduction, you’ll need to have an exam and consultation with one of our ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists. They will work with you to determine if the procedure is right for you and curate a personalized treatment plan.

You will then receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for your surgery, which may include fasting for a certain period, avoiding certain medication, and taking some time off work.

Anesthesia

You will be given either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia at the start of your surgery. This will ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

During Surgery

  • Incision: Your surgeon will either make an incision inside your nose or perform the surgery using an endoscope.
  • Reduction: Excess bone or tissue on the turbinates will then be carefully removed or repositioned to open up your airways. If an incision was made, it will then be closed with sutures.
  • Duration: The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

Post-Surgery

  • Recovery Room: You’ll spend time being monitored in a recovery room until you awake and your vitals are stable.
  • Discharge: Normally, you’ll be able to go home the same day unless complications arise. You’ll need to have a friend or family member drive you home.

Aftercare

After your procedure, it’s crucial that you follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions, which typically include rest, nasal irrigation, and avoiding strenuous activities to promote healing.

You will also need to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing. During your recovery, it’s critical to watch for signs of infection or excessive bleeding and to have clear communication with your doctor.

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Who Is a Good Candidate for Turbinate Reduction?

If you’re experiencing chronic nasal congestion that is not responsive to medication, you may be an ideal candidate for turbinate reduction. If you’ve had minimal success with nasal steroids or antihistamines, or if you prefer a more permanent solution, the procedure may be a good option. It’s important that you’ve attempted conservative treatments before resorting to surgery. Before considering the procedure, you will undergo a thorough examination by one of our ENT specialists to ensure that there aren’t other underlying issues contributing to your nasal congestion, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps.

Why Choose Dion Health Services for Your Turbinate Reduction Procedure?

When considering a turbinate reduction, Dion Health Services stands out for its excellence in patient care and medical expertise. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and we are equipped with the latest technology in ENT procedures. At our clinic, you can rest assured that you’ll receive high-quality, personalized medical attention from dedicated professionals committed to restoring your nasal function and improving your quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions Turbinate Reduction

What are the possible side effects of turbinate reduction?

How long is the recovery period after turbinate reduction surgery?

Are the results of turbinate reduction permanent?

What are the possible side effects of turbinate reduction?

After a turbinate reduction, you might experience temporary side effects such as nasal dryness, crusting, and minor bleeding. In rare cases, you could experience a reduced sense of smell or the development of empty nose syndrome, which is a feeling of insufficient airflow despite a clear nasal passage.

How long is the recovery period after turbinate reduction surgery?

Typically, the recovery period for turbinate reduction surgery is about one to two weeks. During this time, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activities and follow a specific nasal care routine, as advised by your surgeon.

Are the results of turbinate reduction permanent?

The results of turbinate reduction are generally long-lasting. However, some patients may require revision surgery down the road if nasal obstruction recurs or if other related issues arise in the future.

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