Sinus congestion can be miserable, and ineffective remedies can add further frustration.
Sinus congestion can be miserable, and ineffective remedies can add further frustration.
When conservative treatment methods like medications haven’t helped, a simple outpatient procedure, called a Turbinoplasty, may be what you need to get the comfort you’ve been looking for.
How does Turbinoplasty Work?
A turbinoplasty is a medical procedure that aims to eliminate uncomfortable blockages in your nasal cavity and give you some much-needed relief.
The procedure involves removing the excess tissue from the Turbinates, the bones in your nasal cavity that guide, clean, and humidify the air before entering your lungs.
On the day of your procedure, you’ll receive general anesthesia. The surgeon will shrink your turbinates by using a variety of techniques. For example, Radiofrequency Turbinoplasty or cauterization to name a few.
The procedure is relatively short, typically taking a few minutes to complete. Afterward, you can be back to feeling like your old self in no time.
When to Consider Turbinoplasty
Several factors can cause your Turbinates to swell for instance:
- Seasonal Allergies
- A lengthy cold
- Chemical irritations
- Overuse of nasal decongestants
- and Chronic Sinusitis
There are other methods to treat enlarged Turbinates, sometimes these methods lose their effectiveness. In addition to congestion, enlarged turbinates can also cause increased nasal drainage, sinus pressure, and snoring.
If you have been experiencing prolonged periods of having a blockage sensation in your nasal passages and all other methods haven’t worked, a Turbinoplasty is worth considering.
Your Procedure
Also, your procedure may include a combination approach. Along with your Turbinoplasty, your surgeon may also include a balloon sinus dilation. This involves inserting a small balloon into the nose to help open the nasal passage.
What to Expect After Your Procedure
You can expect some mild discomfort after your procedure, including swelling, crusting, and a bloody nasal discharge. But these usually subside after a week.
Most patients usually go home the same day of the procedure. In some cases, patients go home the day after.
Recovery
While your recovery timetable depends on the techniques used during your procedure, the general expectation is to have a complete recovery after six weeks.
If you would like to learn more about Turbinoplasty, give our Saint Louis office a call to schedule a consultation at 314-473-5433.
We look forward to serving you!
