Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find answers to many of your questions about nasal turbinate reduction (turbinoplasty) and nasal turbinate removal (turbinectomy). Learn how it’s done, what it may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
For personal insights, see our patient experience videos in which HCF members talk frankly about their preparation, surgery and recovery.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-of-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for nasal turbinate surgery and learn how your choice of surgeon and hospital affect that cost.
The basics
What are nasal turbinates?
Nasal turbinates are structures on the inside of your nose made of bone and soft tissue. They help to control the flow of air through your nose as well as warm and humidify the air. If they become enlarged they can lead to a blocked nose. There are several treatments for enlarged nasal turbinates but if they don’t work, you may need turbinate reduction surgery.
What is nasal turbinate surgery?
Nasal turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure that aims to reduce the size of the turbinates or remove them. It may be done in combination with other surgeries like nasal septum surgery, nasal polyp removal or sinus surgery.
How’s it done?
It’s done through your nostrils. The surgeon usually views the inside of your nose through a nasal endoscope, which has a camera and light on the tip. They then use instruments to reduce or remove your turbinates. Depending on your problem, surgery may involve removal of soft tissue and bone or reduction of soft tissue only.
The details
CONSIDERING THE PROCEDURE
Alternatives to nasal turbinate surgery
There may be other options depending on your condition.
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Types of nasal turbinate surgery
There are different ways to reduce or remove turbinates.
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Results vs risks of the procedure
The benefits and risks of nasal turbinate surgery.
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Choosing a specialist
How to find an ear, nose and throat surgeon who specialises in this procedure.
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PREPARATION
Questions for your specialist
What you should ask before going ahead with surgery.
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Preparing for your procedure
Pre-operative tests and preparation.
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Your anaesthetic options
The anaesthesia and post-op pain relief you may be offered.
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YOUR PROCEDURE
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your surgery.
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Your procedure
What happens during the procedure.
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RECOVERY AND AFTERCARE
After your procedure
Your hospital stay.
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Recovery and aftercare
Resuming activities and watching for problems.
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PATIENT EXPERIENCES
People who’ve had nasal surgery talk about their preparation, hospital stay and recovery.
View videos
Related articles
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SECOND OPINION
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Important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.