Turbinate Reduction

Our experienced staff at Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat provides quality care so you can breathe easy. If you have nasal obstruction, then it is likely interfering with your breathing patterns.

We invite you to schedule a consultation to learn more about treatment options that can correct these obstructions to open your airway again.

Turbinate Symptoms

Turbinates are found in the sidewall area of your nasal cavities. They serve the purpose of humidifying and warming the air that is breathed in through your nose. Sometimes, the turbinates are enlarged, which blocks the airflow and makes it hard to breathe. This enlargement can occur due to inflammation and swelling because of infection, irritation, or allergies.

Not only do large turbinates block the nasal passage, but it is common to experience other symptoms such as increased mucus production, nasal congestion, altered facial growth (in children) and sleep difficulty including snoring and sleep apnea. 

Turbinate Correction

First line manegement of turbinate hypertrophy and its resultant nasal obstruction is a nasal steroid spray like fluticasone (Flonase, Flonase Sensimist, Nasacort, Rhinocort, Nasonex) for 3 weeks, with long term daily usage if successful. If your breathing has not improved by 3 weeks, , then you might need some type of surgical turbinate reduction. This procedure can shrink down the size of the turbinates, while still preserving the lining within the nose. If the turbinates are completely removed, there is risk of excessive dryness in the nose since the air is no longer moisturized. Instead, treatment can be done to reduce the size of the turbinates using one of the following methods:

• Cauterization
• Partial resection
• Radiofrequency reduction
• Coblation

Some of these techniques can shrink the tissue without the need to remove bone or tissue from the nasal passages. For example, heating the tissue with a special medical device can promote the formation of scar tissue, which naturally shrinks the turbinate size. Every patient is unique, which is why it is important to consult with an experienced ENT for personal recommendations.

What to Expect During and After Surgery?

One of the benefits we offer at Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat is the option for this treatment to be completed in the comfort of our office. There’s no reason to schedule surgical time at the hospital. This procedure can be done using local anesthesia, and after anesthetized,  only takes about 10 minutes.

Postoperatively, we may recommend saline spray or saline irrigations for a specified perior of time, to speed healing. Most patients experience minimal pain or discomfort during recovery. Patients generally can return to work the next day. Potential side effects might include infection or bleeding, but they are rare.

ENT Consultation for Nasal Obstruction

Are you near Frisco, Plano, or Dallas? If you are having problems with nasal obstruction, then we invite you to schedule an exam with our experienced team at Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat. We’ll complete a thorough assessment to identify an accurate diagnosis, then determine the best treatment options to reduce your symptoms.

Our offices are located in Frisco and Plano, TX. Use the online form for convenient appointment scheduling. Or call us if you have questions about available services. We can be reached during regular business hours at (972) 596-4005. You don’t have to keep putting up with nasal obstruction, and we can significantly improve your quality of life in this regard.