The nose contains a total of three nasal turbinates: lower, middle, and upper. These turbinates, composed of bone structure but having a soft tissue, are responsible for warming the air drawn into the lungs, as well as humidifying and filtering it before it reaches the respiratory system. During cold weather, they assist in filling the blood vessels, causing them to swell. This swelling ensures that the air taken in through the nose is adequately prepared for respiration. Excessive growth can occur in the lower and middle parts of the nasal turbinate due to various reasons. Nasal turbinate hypertrophy is commonly observed in individuals with nasal bone curvature and allergic reactions. In addition to these conditions, infections, medications, and environmental factors can also contribute to nasal turbinate enlargement.
Who Is Suitable for Nasal Turbinate Surgery?
Nasal turbinate surgery is performed due to the inability to breathe properly and to ensure that you receive the required amount of oxygen. Living with this problem can lead to developmental disorders in the jaw area and orthodontic problems. Constant sinusitis problems and postnasal drip can also be observed. Conditions such as middle ear infections may necessitate nasal turbinate surgery. Initially, treatment involves methods such as nasal sprays. Although this method may have a positive response in many patients, it may not work for some individuals. Among surgical procedures, there are different operations. Permanent reduction methods are used in patients with mild swelling. Tampons are generally not used in this surgery. However, if nasal turbinate surgery is performed along with sinus surgery, tampons may be used to prevent leakage. Nasal turbinate surgery is performed by expert doctors in the field. The operation takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. However, if aesthetic procedures such as rhinoplasty are added to this surgery, the duration can extend up to 2 hours.
Why Is Nasal Turbinoplasty Performed?
When the nasal turbinate grows excessively, individuals may experience various negative effects in their daily lives. Difficulties in breathing, nasal congestion, snoring, and headaches are inevitable problems. To alleviate these issues, patients opt for nasal turbinate surgery. Among the most prominent symptoms of nasal turbinate hypertrophy is nasal congestion. The individual struggles to breathe comfortably and often breathes through the mouth, especially during sleep at night. They may frequently experience dryness in the mouth during sleep. Additionally, they may wake up feeling tired and experience difficulties during physical activities. Moreover, symptoms such as nasal discharge, facial pain, and changes in the sense of smell may occur. One of the most effective solutions is to undergo nasal turbinate reduction surgery. In this procedure, the turbinate is completely excised. However, if there is no issue with the nasal bone, nasal turbinate reduction may be preferred over excision.
After the turbinate surgery, it is important to pay attention to the following:
After the nasal surgery, the patient is rested for at least 8 hours. Then, they are gradually helped to stand up, with the walking distance being extended each time they are raised. They can be discharged after 72 hours. Generally, there are no restrictions on the patient’s movements, but sometimes headaches may occur. It is crucial to drink plenty of water for this. After the surgery, tampons and stitches are left inside the nose. The patient needs to attend regular dressing appointments. Usually, the tampon is removed after the third day. The examination period continues with intervals of 3-4 weeks after discharge. After the examination, your doctor will inform you in detail about the healing process and your stitches. It is very important for patients who have had nasal surgery to pay attention to nasal hygiene. Many patients can use sprays after the surgery. You can contact Dr. Sedat Baş through our website for detailed information about nasal turbinate surgery and other surgical procedures.
