Is there a risk of developing ENS (empty nose syndrome) during a septoplasty?

Empty nose syndrome is extremely rare. I personally have never seen a case. The risk is greater if you also have aggressive turbinate removal at the same time but even then the risk is small

At the time of septoplasty, you do not need the turbinates operated on, unless when the septum is straightened the turbinates are touching the septum. Then something would have to be done. You need to be examined first to figure out of the turbinates are enlarged to begin with.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question. Having one over a thousand functional rhinoseptoplasties / rhinoplasties, I can tell you that the risk of empty nose syndrome is very, very, very low. This was more an issue previously when surgeons would remove the entire or portions of the turbinate. This is not common practice any longer, and therefore the risk of empty nose syndrome has reduced massively. ENS is more prevalent on the internet than real risk present. The technique I use (and I reduce turbinates in nearly every patient with nasal breathing issues) is submucous resection of turbinates, which basically means that a portion of the inside of the inferior turbinate is removed, while leaving the structure and outside of the turbinate intact. I do recommend having this procedure performed for my patients undergoing functional septorhinoplasty.

Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) is a condition that may occur after certain nasal surgeries, especially those involving the turbinates. Turbinates are structures inside the nose that help humidify and filter the air we breathe. When they are excessively removed or reduced during surgery, it can lead to ENS, which causes symptoms like persistent nasal dryness, difficulty breathing, and other discomforts.

A septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum, which can improve nasal breathing without necessarily affecting the turbinates.


During your consultation, the doctor will assess your nasal anatomy and discuss the appropriate treatment plan for your deviated septum while addressing your concerns about the turbinates and the risk of ENS.


I hope this helps,
best of luck !