Is it possible to get empty nose syndrome after outfracture of the inferior turbinates?

Question

I had Rhinoplasty along with outfracture of the inferior turbinates 9 month ago. i want to know if is possible to get an empty nose syndrome from this type of surgery. i been having dry nose and some crusting inside my nose and already went to see my surgeon and an ENT doctor and both said that everything looks ok and that maybe the crust and dryness is because now i have a better airflow. but why this started just 3 month ago and at the beginning?

Elbert T. Cheng, MD · Answer

Hello Willy24,Thank you for your question and I'm sorry you are experiencing these issues.  As most of my colleagues have commented, empty nose syndrome can occur from aggressive resection of your turbinates, but is fairly uncommon with just outfracturing alone.  The normal intranasal hygiene with saline sprays and rinses are important.  I also find that placing intranasal aquaphor or vaseline can lubricate the nose well.  Make sure that your ENT or Plastic Surgeon have performed cultures on your nose as well.  Good luck with everything!

Jadrien (Jay) Young, MD · Answer

Empty nose syndrome is a somewhat controversial topic in terms of the true cause. Generally speaking it is associated with aggressive resection of the inferior turbinate. It is common to have the turbinate partially resected in combination with the outfracture though your presentation seems less likely to be true empty nose syndrome. Saline spray/rinse and occasionally a short prescription of antibiotic ointment (e.g., mupirocin) may be helpful. Ultimately, your surgeon may be inclined to obtain a culture or imaging to ensure no other problems.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear willy24, This syndrome is typically related to over aggressive turbinate reduction. The majority of  out fracture cases and certainly none I have performed for over thirty years have suffered from empty nose syndrome. I would have your surgeon run a culture and sensitivity and make sure you do not have any other issues going on. If not try using some saline spray to help moisturize the nose. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon and he/she should be able to guide you through this with a proper diagnosis. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Mark Loury, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Good question. Any intranasal surgery can cause empty nose syndrome. It is more likely with aggressive turbinate reduction. If there is crusting consider removing it and getting a culture to make sure there isn't an infection. If it's just dryness and you don't have significant allergies then try saline cleansing followed by several drops of sesame oil which is a wonderful moisturizer.  Consider late Summer and Autumn allergies. Hope these suggestions help

Is it possible to get empty nose syndrome after outfracture of the inferior turbinates?

Answers (4)

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