Does Turbinate Reduction Change Shape Of Nose?

We take breathing for granted, but many individuals suffer from nasal congestion. This makes breathing a challenge. However, there are multiple solutions to treat these difficulties, one of which is turbinate reduction. The procedure is painless and highly effective.

When turbinates swell, they hinder the airflow through the nostrils. Aside from common concerns, many patients wonder – will turbinate reduction make their nose smaller. Luckily, the answer is no.

However, there are details that need consideration to avoid deviating nasal shape after turbinate reduction. Let us explore the relationship between turbinate reduction and nose shape, and provide answers to these common questions.

Turbinates are long, thin bones that project into the nasal passages. While turbinate reduction is a nasal surgery that shrinks enlarged turbinate causing nasal obstruction and interfering with breathing.

What Are Reasons For Turbinate Reduction?

Turbinate enlargement is a common problem. Many factors can increase their size, including:

• Continuous exposure to allergic substances like dust, pollen or grasses
• Contact with irritants including chemicals, smog and smoke
• Anatomical abnormalities
• Recurring sinus infection
• Chronic nasal congestion
• Nasal blockage

How Turbinate Reduction Is Performed?

Since numerous methods can reduce turbinates. Thus, understanding each method and its impact on nose shape is vital. Here are popular methods for turbinate reduction:

• Traditional Surgical Reduction: The surgeon makes an incision inside the nose to access and reduce the turbinate bones.
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): It is a minimally invasive technique that uses a special device to deliver heat energy to turbinate bones. Thus, reducing their size.
• Coblation: This process uses low-temperature plasma energy to reduce turbinate size. It also minimizes damage to surrounding tissues.
• Partial Resection: The surgeon removes only a small portion of the turbinate bone, creating additional space in the nasal passages.

Does Turbinate Reduction Change Shape of Nose?

The simple answer is no. In most cases, turbinate reduction does not significantly change the external shape of the nose. Cartilage bones define the nose’s shape, as these lie far from internal structures. Hence, reduction in turbinate normally does not alter nasal shape.

However, the following scenarios may impact the nasal shape. While it also becomes visible with turbinate reduction before and after pictures.

• Combined Procedures: The chances of nasal deformity increases when turbinate is performed in combination with other surgeries like rhinoplasty or septoplasty.
• Excess Tissue Removal: Structural changes are possible in case of aggressive removal of tissue from inside of the nose.
• Scar Tissue: Some patients develop scar tissue after turbinate. This affects the shape of the nose.

How To Get Rid Of Nose Change After Turbinate reduction?

For patients who are experiencing a nasal change after turbinate reduction, the following procedures can help to resolve it. Luckily, there are both surgical and non-surgical solutions to settle this issue.

• Rhinoplasty: A surgical procedure that can help to restore the original shape of the nose or improve its appearance.
• Septorhinoplasty: A surgical procedure that combines rhinoplasty with septoplasty to correct both the shape of the nose and the deviated septum.
• Dermal Fillers: Injecting dermal fillers into the nose can help to gain lost volume or shape.
• Nasal Contouring: A non-surgical procedure that uses injectable fillers or fat transfer to reshape the nose.
• Massage And Exercises: Gentle massage and exercises may help improve the shape and appearance of the nose.

• Tissue Regrowth: As few tissues may regrow over time leading to potential recurrence of congestion issues.
• Individual Factors: Regrowth also depends on individual factors like severity of turbinate enlargement.
• Procedure: Different procedures have varying degrees of long-term effectiveness.

What Factors Influence Nasal Shape?

As we know the answer is not to do turbinate surgery to change the nasal shape. However, there are certain factors that can alter the nasal shape. It includes the following:

• Inheritance: We normally inherit nasal shapes from our parents.
• Nasal Bones: The shape and size of the nasal bones influence the overall nasal shape.
• Soft tissue: The thickness and distribution of soft tissue, including skin and mucosa, can affect nasal shape.
• Aging: As we age, the nasal shape can change due to the natural aging process.

What Are Pros And Cons Of Turbinate Reduction?

Like any other procedure, turbinate reduction has its pros and cons. Here are a few of these:

Pros

• Improved breathing
• Relief from nasal congestion
• Reduced sinus pressure
• Minimally invasive
• Long-term results

Cons

• Infection risk
• Nasal crusting
• Temporary loss of smell

What Are Turbinate Reduction Side Effects?

Although considered safe, turbinate reduction has certain side effects. This includes the following:

• Nasal congestion and crusting
• Swelling or bleeding
• Mild pain or discomfort
• Headaches or facial pain
• Scarring or infection

Frequently Asked Questions

Does turbinate reduction affect nose shape?

No, in most cases turbinate reduction will not affect the nasal shape.

Does sinus surgery affect nose shape?

Sinus surgery usually does not change the shape of your nose.

Can I pick my nose after turbinate reduction?

No, you should avoid picking your nose after turbinate reduction as it may introduce infection or undo the surgery.

What is empty nose syndrome after turbinate reduction?

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a rare condition and occurs if nasal tissue is removed too much.

Can nasal polyps change the shape of the nose?

Yes, very large nasal polyps can change the shape of the nose.