Radiofrequency turbinate reduction

turbinate reduction · radiofrequency turbinate reduction · turbinate cautery · inferior turbinate reduction

Using a thin probe, the doctor shrinks swollen turbinates inside your nose from within. The lining on top stays intact, and your nose breathes more freely.

When your nose is always blocked because of enlarged turbinates, and drops and sprays do not help.

⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you go home the same day; the effect shows in 2 to 4 weeks

Be sure to tell your doctor

Blood thinners
Allergies, especially to painkillers or numbing medicine
If you have a pacemaker
If you often get nosebleeds
If you have used decongestant nose drops for a long time

How to prepare

Health. It is done when you have no cold or runny nose. If you get ill, reschedule.
Medicines. Do not stop them on your own. Tell your doctor what you take, and they will decide.
Food. Usually a light meal 1 to 2 hours before. Check with the clinic.

What to bring

Your referral
Your ID
Tissues

How it goes

You sit in the chair
Cotton strips with numbing medicine go into your nose, or you get a shot
You wait a few minutes for your nose to go numb
The doctor puts a thin probe into the turbinate and heats it from inside
The same is done on the other side
Sometimes packing is placed for a short time

What you'll feel

The shot or cotton strips are unpleasant, then your nose goes numb
During the procedure: pressure, warmth, sometimes crackling
Watery eyes are normal

Afterwards

For the first 1 to 2 weeks, your nose is more blocked than before. This is swelling
Crusts and discharge are common. Your doctor will tell you how to rinse your nose
No hard nose blowing, saunas, or heavy exercise for about a week
Your nose usually starts breathing better in 2 to 4 weeks

Contact a doctor straight away if

A nosebleed that does not stop in 10 to 15 minutes: call emergency services
A fever over 38°C (100.4°F), or severe pain in the nose or face

Common questions

Why is my nose worse after the procedure?

For the first 1 to 2 weeks there is swelling. Then it goes down, and breathing gets easier.

Does it hurt?

Usually not. Your nose is numbed. You feel pressure and warmth.