Should I get a repeat turbinate reduction if the first one failed?

Question

Last August I had a turbinate reduction surgery after being chronically addicted to Afrin for a year-and-a-half. I was told that Afrin only affects turbinate tissue but not the rest of the nose, and that this would solve my problem. However, two months after the surgery I was more congested than ever, to the point I could not even use my CPAP. My nose is also drier than before. what further turbinate reduction surgery improve my situation? Or do I need something like an alar stent?

Jacob Sedgh, MD · Answer

I would be surprised that removing more of the turbinates will improve your obstruction and be cautious since too much reduction can have a paradoxical effect. Afrin addiction can change the physiology of the nose and really complicate the assessment, so I would hesitate to do any other surgeries for at least 3-4 months following abstinence.Also enlarged turbinates are only one cause (and according to many experts a controversial or at least a less significant factor) of nasal obstruction. I would make sure to get properly evaluated by a surgeon who routinely performs functional nasal surgery.

Ali Totonchi, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question, you need to be seen and have a complete evaluation before we can give you any recommendation, surgery itself can make your nose dry for short period of time or longer, incomplete reduction of blocking structure can also cause blockage of airway. good luck!

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear stuffedup,The best way to reduce the size of the turbinates is to remove a portion of the turbinate bone, if that was not done, the problems can return (some surgeons just burn the flesh in the nose, but this does not help long term)I would use something like Flonase for now to help you breathe betterYou should also be examined for the turbinates to see what is going onPlease see a nose specialist, there are several ways that your nose could be blockedBest,
Dr. Nima
Member, American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Board Certified in Head and Neck Surgery

Edward J. Ricciardelli, MD · Answer

I am sorry that your surgery has not met your expectations.  First, I assume that you have been on a course of nasal steroids as this is really the best option for getting you off the Afrin.  As long as you are using Afrin, you will have an abnormal nasal cycle of congestion/decongestion and will have symptoms of obstruction, dryness, and drainage.  Second, 2 months is not enough time for the surgical swelling to resole.  I would give it another 4 -5 months before passing judgment on the final results.  Third, the turbinates are only one possible cause of obstruction.  Make sure that your surgeon has evaluated the septum, internal and external nasal valve areas.  In short, have a full nasal evaluation.  Good luck

Should I get a repeat turbinate reduction if the first one failed?

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