Turbinate reduction in Hudson Valley

Inside the walls of the nose are three pairs of long thin bones that are covered with tissue. These are known as nasal turbinates. The turbinates can become swollen and block airflow as a result of allergies or other nasal problems. A turbinate reduction is a procedure offered by Dr. Rubinstein to fix the airways that are blocked and improve the overall breathing of a patient.

Types of Turbinate Reduction

There are three types of a turbinate reduction:

Turbinectomy: In this procedure, all or part of the lower turbinate is removed. It is sometimes done with a tiny, high-speed device that is used to shave off extra tissue. This procedure may also be done with an endoscope that is placed into the nose. Patients are giving general anesthesia so there is no pain during the surgery.

Turbinoplasty: In this procedure, the position of the turbinate is changed, as a tool is placed in the nose. It is also known as the outfracture technique. Some tissue may be shaved off as well. This procedure is performed with general anesthesia.

Radiofrequency or laser ablation: The turbinate tissue is shrunk through the use of a thin probe placed into the nose. The shrinking occurs as a result of laser light projected through the tube. This procedure can be done with local anesthesia.

Risks

In addition to the normal risks associated with a surgery such as infection, bleeding, heart problems, allergic reactions, and breathing problems, a turbinate reduction also comes with the following risks:

• Dryness if excessive turbinate is removed- rare with conservative treatments.
• A change in smell
• Scar tissue or crusting within the nose
• The nasal blockage returns after surgery

I had a balloon Sinuplasty with Dr. Rubinstein on July 30th. I have been a patient here for two to three years and I’m always happy with my results. I have already recommended Dr. Rubinstein to several people. He’s wonderful and competent, always going above and beyond. He also remembers who you are and what your case is, which is kind of unusual. There was not really any downtime after my balloon Sinuplasty. Dr. Rubinstein is wonderful.

Prior to the Procedure

You will be asked to stop taking the following medications: ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, warfarin, and other drugs that can cause blood to clot. On the night before your surgery, if you are having anesthesia, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight.

After the Procedure

You will be able to go home the same day of the surgery, as long as no complications are experienced. Most patients experience short-term relief following the procedure. Symptoms of nasal blockage may return, but most patients report significantly improved breathing two years following the surgery.

Additionally, you will encounter some pain and discomfort in your face two to three days following the surgery. Your nose will also feel blocked until the swelling begins to subside. Dr. Rubinstein’s staff will show you how to take care of your nose following the surgery to ensure a safe and effective healing process. Typically, patients are able to return to work or school within a few days to one week after the procedure. Vigorous activities may be resumed after a period of two weeks. It is important to understand that it may take up to two months to completely heal from the surgery and see the full benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions