Turbinate reduction through cauterization - what are the risks?

Turbinate reduction is often done in conjunction with rhinoplasty or septoplasty to improve breathing. There are several ways of doing this and the complication rate is quite low

Great question. Turbinate reduction helps to improve the airflow through the nose. The best way to reduce the likelihood of problems is to not overly reduce the turbinates and use a submucosal technique. This allows for the mucosa to respond as it should. I would not recommend anything that overly shrinks or disrupts the turbinates. Empty Nose Syndrome is rare, but can happen. The best way to stay safe is to be conservative.