What Causes Nose Congestion After Turbinate Reduction?

Posted on Thu, 12 Jun 2014

Question: for the past few years I have had chronic sinus infections. I recently had an RF Turbinate reduction thinking that would. It's been almost 4 weeks since the small operation, and I can tell it was a success by looking into my nose with a flash light, my turbinates are much much smaller. But now, I still feel like i'm congested. Nothing has changed, I feel pressure behind my nose, I have experienced voice changes (less nasal resonance, deeper, more throaty sounding), and I feel as if my nose/sinuses still cannot drain properly, I have to snort in order to help remove mucus from behind my nose. What could be causing this blockage?

Answered by Dr. Satvinder Bakshi (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
The blockage may be due to turbinate enlargement!

Detailed Answer:
Hello

There are a few things i would like to clarify with you!

First , turbinate reduction with radiofrquency is a short lived procedure and the turbinates will eventually enlarge in 6months to a year.

Second turbinate reduction will not help in the drainage of your sinuses and for that there is a different procedure called as endoscopic sinus surgery and you will have to discuss tis with your doctor.

Third the reduction in the size of turbinates which you are seeing is only the front part , you will not be able to see the rear end/back end of the turbinates , which may still be enlarged causing the symptoms which you are experiencing now.

In my experience , i start the patient on steroid nasal sprays 1 week after surgery and continue them till 3-4 months depending on the response.

I would like you to meet your ent doctor and discuss all of these , he will examine you and guide you further.

Thanks

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad