Nasal turbinate reduction surgery is a surgical procedure to treat nasal congestion and breathing problems caused by enlarged nasal turbinates. The nasal turbinates are bony and soft tissue structures that line the inside of the nasal passages and help to warm and humidify the air we breathe.

When the turbinates become enlarged due to allergies, infections, or other conditions, they can obstruct the nasal passages and cause difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, and sleep apnea. Nasal turbinate reduction surgery is often performed to relieve these symptoms and improve nasal airflow.

There are several different techniques that can be used to reduce the size of the nasal turbinates, including:

Radiofrequency ablation: This technique uses a special device that emits low-level radiofrequency energy to shrink the soft tissue of the turbinates.

Submucosal resection: This technique involves removing a portion of the bony and soft tissue structures of the turbinates to reduce their size.

Laser turbinate reduction: This technique uses a laser to remove the soft tissue of the turbinates, similar to submucosal resection.

After the surgery, the patient may experience mild to moderate pain and swelling in the nose and may need to use saline nasal sprays or rinses to keep the nasal passages moist and reduce inflammation. Most patients can return to work or normal activities within a week or two after the surgery, but strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.

Nasal turbinate reduction surgery is generally safe and effective, and can provide long-term relief from nasal congestion and breathing problems. However, as with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications, including bleeding, infection, and changes in the sense of smell or taste.