Radiofrequency Turbinate Reduction & Turbinoplasty

Radiofrequency turbinate reduction and turbinoplasty are procedures performed when the enlargement in the turbinates blocks the airway and leads to problems like sleep apnea, nasal obstruction, nasal drainage and difficulty in breathing. Turbinates can be reduced in size and the surgery can be accompanied by septoplasty procedure.

Turbinates are the parts of the nose that work to warm and moisturize the air breathed. They are generally known as concha bullosa. They are covered with warm blood vessels that prevent cold air reach our lungs and help moisturize the air.  However, they can cause difficulty in breathing when they get bigger or are dislocated. 

When to Have Radiofrequency Turbinate Reduction and Turbinoplasty

Radiofrequency turbinate reduction and turbinoplasty can be done when other treatments do not work in order to reduce the size of the turbinates. Among the common causes of concha bullosa are severe allergy, chronic infection, weather changes, stress, medication, hormonal changes and anatomical deviation. 

Procedures that involve turbinate reduction are often recommended for people who will have septoplasty surgery.  Nasal deviation may lead to pressure on turbinate and nasal obstruction. Reducing the size of turbinates during septoplasty helps open the airway. 

Radiofrequency Turbinate Reduction Procedure 

During radiofrequency turbinate reduction, turbinate reduction is aimed without removing a bone or tissue inside the nose.  A needle-like instrument is inserted into the turbinate and energy is transmitted to the tissue to cause a controlled damage. This causes scar tissue to form, reducing the turbinates’ size. It allows improved airflow through the nose. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes about 10 minutes. 

There's usually no pain on the recovery process, no change on the physical aspect and no long-term side effects such as loss on olfactory perception. Crusting on the nose may occur after the procedure for approximately 3 weeks.

Turbinoplasty

When radiofrequency is not sufficient, surgical procedures that remove a portion of turbinate might be necessary. During the procedure, the turbinates are reduced in size by cutting them. The surgeon will insert a specialized tool into the patient’s nose and some of the tissues in the turbinates will be shaved off to open up the nasal passages. 

Surgically removing the tissue or the bone that surrounds the turbinates can be done in more serious enlarged turbinate conditions. It is done together with septoplasty. These procedures are done under general anesthesia. 

After Radiofrequency Turbinate Reduction and Turbinoplasty

Recovery is generally shorter after radiofrequency turbinate reduction procedure. It doesn’t involve incision on the skin or packing. There is an 80-85% success rate in one session. 2nd or 3rd sessions might sometimes be necessary after 1 or 2 months.  In about 3 weeks, the scar tissue will get better.  

In turbinoplasty that needs an incision; full recovery takes 3 to 6 months. For up to a week after surgery, you may need to pack your nostrils with gauze to keep tissues in place. 

In order to avoid possible bleeding and swelling, avoid strenuous activities and blowing your nose for several weeks after both of the procedures. In addition, elevate your head while sleeping and wear clothing that fastens in front to avoid irritating your nose. 

What are the Side Effects?

Side effects of radiofrequency turbinate reduction procedure are less likely and less severe. After the procedure, for about three weeks, you may experience crusting or nose dryness. Using nasal saline irrigation and antibiotic ointment during this time can help control these side effects.

Side effects of procedures involving removal of bone or tissue are more likely. Pain, bleeding, swelling, irritation, dryness of the nasal cavities and infection are among these side effects. 

Radiofrequency turbinate reduction and turbinoplasty may not be a permanent solution. There’s also a possibility that turbinate tissue may regrow after surgery, making it necessary to undergo further turbinate reduction treatment.