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When a nasal septum is deviated it may partially block air flow in the nose. When a turbinate is enlarged it can also impair breathing. Sometimes surgery can improve the position of the septum (septoplasty) and also the size and position of the turbinates (turbinate resection or repositioning). Noses need the septum for anatomic support so it is important to leave a strong and adequate portion. Likewise, turbinates are important in warming, humidification and filtering air so they should not be aggressively removed. Additional maneuvers may also improve airflow (spreader or batten grafts) by making key portions of the airway larger. An experienced nasal surgeon will explain the best options for each individual patient.
Hi Sahra. Generally speaking, when nasal airway obstruction is thought to be at least partly due to physical obstruction, those two procedures can be undertaken either alone or in combination in an effort to improve nasal breathing. Septoplasty refers to removing or reshaping a portion of the cartilage component of the nasal septum that separates the right from the left nasal airway. It is typically performed when part of the nasal septum (due to a deviation or spur) obstructs the nasal airway and may contribute to nasal breathing obstruction. The turbinates are structures located on the interior sidewalls of the nose. Enlarged turbinates also can contribute to nasal airway obstruction. Turbinectomy generally refers to partial removal of the inferior turbinate(s). I hope that helps. Good luck.
The turbinates are shelves of bone covered with mucous membranes inside the nose that humidify, filter, and warm the inspired air. When excessively large, the turbinates can cause nasal obstruction. The obstruction caused by turbinates typically fluctuates from one side to another. The turbinates can be surgically reduced to improve nasal obstruction.
A septoplasty is a procedure which modifies the nasal septum, the structure or wall which separates your nasal airway. The septum consists of bone and cartilage, with each possibly having abnormalities which can block your airway. By correcting these abnormalities, and repositioning the septum in a mid line position, your breathing can be improved. The turbinates are structures present in both nasal cavities which function to humidify inspired air. They are very susceptible to environmental allergens and can become inflamed and swollen. This swelling can be treated medically, but many times the "architecture" of the turbinate needs to be remodeled surgically to further reduce their size. Septoplasty and turbinectomy are excellent procedures which can significantly help patients with breathing difficulties. Good Luck, Dr. Corrado
Basically these are procedures which are more function in nature than the cosmetic rhinoplasty. However, they are often combined with a cosmetic rhinoplasty to help with breathing or other function components of the nose. Good Luck.
