Nasal Turbinate Reduction

Nasal turbinates act as a built-in air purifying device inside your nose. These small structures help to filter, warm, and add moisture to the air you breathe in every day.

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Turbinates can unfortunately become swollen, enlarged, displaced, and create blockages in the nose, which can lead to difficulty breathing. Turbinate reduction procedures improve nasal airflow and nasal breathing allowing long-lasting relief without the need for nasal sprays or medications.

Nasal Turbinate Reduction Options

Depending on the scope of the reduction required and your anatomy, there are different options available for treatment.

Turbinate Outfracture, Coblation, and Radiofrequency Reduction

These procedures allow turbinate reduction without the removal of any underlying tissue or bone. This can be done using a device that transmits heat or energy waves to the soft tissue of the turbinates. Once the turbinates have been heated, scar tissue will form, causing the turbinates to reduce in size. An out fracture can be performed as a stand-alone or in conjunction to further improve airflow through the nasal cavity. These procedures are done using topical and local anesthesia and can be performed typically under 20 minutes.

Surgical Turbinate Reduction

If surgery is required, it will be performed under general anesthesia. The surgery involves the surgeon cutting into the turbinates and removing a portion of the bone beneath them, which reduces their size. A medical device may also be used to reduce the tissue around the turbinates, which can further open the nasal cavity.

Went in for a sinus issue and they took care of me in no time. They managed to provide a great "layman" explanation of my problem and the best resolution for it. Texas ENT Specialist has very knowledgeable doctors and a great receptionist staff! I will definitely go back for any future sinus issues!

by BA

Conditions that Can Improve with Turbinate Reduction

There are several conditions that can improve with nasal turbinate reduction including:

Allergies
Nasal congestion
Nasal obstruction
Breathing difficulties
Anatomic nasal issues

Benefits of Turbinate Reduction

Turbinate reduction procedures can help patients breathe easier, improve problems with snoring, and can also help in the management of sleep apnea. Some turbinate reduction procedures can also be done in just a few minutes, with minimal downtime required.

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About Texas ENT Specialists

Texas ENT Specialists is Houston’s premier provider of comprehensive ENT care. Our offices offer specialized care for ear, nose, throat, voice, sleep, and swallowing conditions. We have 15 convenient office locations across the Houston area. We have set ourselves apart in the industry through:

Personalized Treatment

• We understand that each patient is unique, and we believe your medical care should be tailored to you rather than taking a standardized approach.

Top-Rated Physician Network

Each of our locations is staffed with a team of top-rated physicians who have been independently board-certified and fellowship-trained.

Centers of Excellence

Our locations are equipped with the latest technology so that we can deliver a seamless patient experience from start to finish.

Continuity of Care

We believe in a comprehensive care philosophy to ensure we provide you with long-term relief rather than just short-term “Band-Aid” solutions.

Who Is a Candidate for Turbinate Reduction?

Patients with allergic rhinitis, chronic nasal congestion, and or nasal obstruction may be a candidate for turbinate reduction. During your appointment at Texas ENT Specialists, our providers will review your symptoms and perform a thorough examination of your nasal cavity. This will help your provider determine if you’re a candidate or if another treatment method may be more beneficial.

Your Turbinate Reduction Experience

Prior to your procedure, you will receive an evaluation to determine which treatment option is best for you. You may require a less invasive procedure or a more in-depth surgery.

In-Office

If you require a less invasive procedure, it will be performed in the office under local anesthesia. Your provider will insert a device into the nose to heat the turbinates and allow scar tissue to form. Once this is complete, you can return home.

Surgical Procedure

The surgical procedure will require general anesthesia and will involve removing the bone beneath the turbinates. After the procedure, some patients may require the use of light nasal packing for about one week.

Nasal Turbinate Reduction FAQ

How do I know which procedure is right for me?

This will be determined by a provider at Texas ENT Specialists at the time of your visit. They can examine the area and decide which procedure will best suit your needs.

Is the procedure painful?

For both procedure options, you will be given anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and without pain. You may experience some discomfort and experience some pain during recovery.