Is this bump up in my nose my turbinate? Does this look normal? (photos)

Question

I am just curious if this bump is my turbinate, I am just trying to figure out if I still have my turbinates since I have an outfracture of the turbinates with my Rhinoplasty. how likely is to get an empty nose syndrome from outfracture of the inferior turbinates. I am just a little worry because I been having some crusting but my doctor said this crusting is normal.

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  Your image shows the face of the middle turbinate.  This is not he structure that is outfractured or reduced in most nasal surgery.  In general, there are three sets of turbinates on each side (sometimes four).  The largest ones are inferior turbinates and are lower than the middle turbinate.  They will be hard to capture with a camera that can't go inside the nose or a retractor/speculum to open your nostril.  The middle turbinates are usually not treated during nasal surgery unless there is a condition called concha bullosa where the turbinate is hollow and enlarged.  Empty nose syndrome is caused by resection of the lining of the inferior turbinates and not usually by outfracture.  The lining provides sensation and mucous secreting cells.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Your nose appears normal. Outfracture of the turbinate does not remove any tissue. Further, crusting after nasal surgery is totally normal. At this point you need to be patient and give yourself time to heal and follow your surgeon's recommendations.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

What you are looking at is the middle turbinate which would not be affected by inferior turbinate surgery from your prior procedure.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Outfracture of the inferior turbinates does not usually cause empty nose syndrome, However a significant resection of the turbinate does. The turbinates perform valuable function 2 warm, humidify and direct airflow through the nose.

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

Your photo appears to show a normal middle turbinate.  Contrary to popular belief that septal deviation is the cause of breathing difficulties it is most commonly enlargement of the inferior turbinates (from allergies, smog, certain foods and activities) that causes most nasal stuffiness.  Crushing and outfracturing of the inferior turbinates is commonly done to open the airway and would not be expected to cause excess dryness, nose bleeds or crusting.  The middle turbinates do not have much impact on breathing due to their position and location.

Is this bump up in my nose my turbinate? Does this look normal? (photos)

Answers (5)

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