Does a turbinectomy or aggressive reduction get rid of the nasal cycle?

Question

I think I need a turbinate reduction but my friend told me after his surgery one of his turbinates never changes sizes anymore and he believes that’s why his nose is always dry now. I had a consultation awhile ago and the surgeon told me ENS doesn’t exist. He said he’s seen completely empty noses that didn’t result ENS. How many of you surgeons have seen people that don’t have nearly any inferior turbinates actually still breathe good?

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Turbinate reduction is a very common and safe procedure, but the devil is in the details. Removing large portions or the entire inferior turbinates can result in nasal dysfunction, and it is neither necessary nor recommended. ENS does exist in this context (iatrogenic absence of inferior turbinates), and I've encountered these unfortunate patients. They usually feel they cannot breathe through their nose (despite the nasal passages being wide open) because they have no perception of resistance and air flow without the turbinates. They breathe fine, but it can cause really problematic dysphoria. 
Best,Dr. Tower

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Turbinate reduction is a very effective way to improve your breathing. Complete removal is not needed. I’ve done many turbinate reductions without problems. I’ve never seen a case of ENS

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