Risk of Empty Nose Syndrome from Rhinoplasty with Turbinectomy?

Just had a Rhinoplasty along with turbinectomy (reduction of both tubinates). When I originally presented, I was simply wanting to improve my aesthetics. He immediately pointed out my enlarged turbinate and said he'd "take care of those" too.

During my recovery, I stumbled upon the iatrogenic condition called Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS). It sounds HORRIBLE & dibilitating! I'm now terrified wondering if I'll develop it too. Is there any probability stats out there? Anything I can do at this point?

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3 answers to “Risk of Empty Nose Syndrome from...”

A: No empty nose syndrome risk if you go to a Qualified Surgeon

Paul S. Nassif, MD

Make sure you research your surgeon thoroughly, I can not stress this enough. You want to go with a surgeon who's operative plan involves a conservative Turbinoplasty.

A: Turbinate Reduction

Richard W. Fleming, MD

We frequently reduce the size of turbinates during rhinoplasty surgery to improve nasal breathing. If you have gone to an experienced, board certified surgeon you do not have to worry about excessive removal of these structures.

A: Empty nose syndrome confused with rhinitis sicca

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

This is not a particularly accepted diagnosis and seems to be soemthing concocted by an individual rather than a true disease entity recognized by the medicl society. I reviewed the website and they seemn to be confusing it with a condition called rhinitis sicca.

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