What is Turbinate Reduction Surgery (Turbinoplasty)?

Turbinate reduction surgery, also known as turbinoplasty, is a surgery to reduce the size of the turbinates. The turbinates are small, bony structures located on the sides of the nasal passages. They help to warm, humidify, and filter the air that we breathe. However, if the turbinates become enlarged, they can block the nasal passages and make it difficult to breathe.

How is turbinate reduction surgery performed?

Turbinate reduction surgery can be performed in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the turbinate enlargement and the surgeon's preference. Some common methods include:

• Radiofrequency ablation: This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to shrink the turbinates.
• Laser ablation: This procedure uses a laser to shrink or vaporize the turbinates.
• Microsurgical resection: This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the turbinates using a microscope and small surgical instruments.

Common practice/results of this service

Turbinate reduction surgery is a very common and effective surgery for the treatment of nasal congestion caused by enlarged turbinates. Most people who have turbinate reduction surgery experience significant improvement in their nasal breathing.

Why do people need turbinate reduction surgery?

Turbinate reduction surgery may be recommended for people with enlarged turbinates that are causing significant symptoms, such as:

• Nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing
• Facial pain and pressure
• Frequent sinus infections
• Nosebleeds
• Snoring and sleep apnoea

There are a number of factors that can cause the turbinates to enlarge, including:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic sinusitis
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Environmental irritants, such as smoke and fumes

Who is suitable for turbinate reduction surgery?

Turbinate reduction surgery is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

Turbinate reduction surgery is commonly performed on adults of all ages, but it can also be performed on children.

Benefits of turbinate reduction surgery

The benefits of turbinate reduction surgery include:

• Improved nasal breathing
• Reduced facial pain and pressure
• Reduced risk of sinus infections
• Improved sense of smell
• Reduced snoring and sleep apnoea
• Improved quality of life

How turbinate reduction surgery can help with treatment alongside lifestyle changes etc.

Turbinate reduction surgery can help with the treatment of nasal congestion caused by enlarged turbinates by reducing the size of the turbinates and improving nasal breathing. This can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, and relieve nasal symptoms.

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding cigarette smoke, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier, can also help to reduce nasal symptoms. However, these lifestyle changes may not be enough to resolve enlarged turbinates in some people. Turbinate reduction surgery can be a valuable treatment option for people who have tried lifestyle changes but have not experienced relief from their symptoms.

The Procedure

Turbinate reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Mr Khatwa will make an incision inside the nose and then use small instruments to reduce the size of the turbinates. The incision will be closed with sutures or dissolved stitches.

The surgery typically takes about 30-60 minutes. After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored. You will likely be able to go home the same day.

Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery

Before turbinate reduction surgery, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These instructions may include:

• Fasting for a certain number of hours before surgery
• Taking certain medications
• Avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen

Post-surgery – what do do after surgery

After turbinate reduction surgery, you will need to follow Mr Khatwa's instructions for post-operative care. These instructions may include:

• Taking pain relievers
• Using a saline nasal spray
• Avoiding strenuous activity
• Keeping your head elevated

If you are considering turbinate reduction surgery, book an appointment to talk to Mr Khatwa about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Turbinate reduction surgery is a very effective surgery for the treatment of nasal congestion caused by enlarged turbinates, but it is important to understand the risks and benefits before making a decision.