Turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of the nasal turbinates, which are curved bony structures covered with soft tissue inside the nasal cavity. Turbinates play a vital role in humidifying and filtering inhaled air, but when they become chronically enlarged, they can obstruct airflow and cause persistent nasal congestion.

Turbinate hypertrophy is commonly associated with allergic rhinitis, chronic nasal inflammation, environmental irritants, and compensatory enlargement due to a deviated nasal septum. Patients often report constant nasal blockage, difficulty breathing through the nose, mouth breathing, snoring, and reduced sleep quality. Medical treatment with nasal sprays and antihistamines may relieve inflammation but may not provide lasting benefit in structural hypertrophy.

Turbinate reduction is indicated when conservative management fails. The procedure aims to reduce turbinate size while preserving their essential function. Several techniques are available, including radiofrequency ablation, submucosal resection, microdebrider-assisted reduction, and cauterization. The choice of technique depends on turbinate anatomy and surgeon preference.

The procedure is often performed under local or general anesthesia and may be combined with septoplasty or sinus surgery. It is minimally invasive, with no external incisions. Recovery is typically quick, with mild congestion and crusting during the healing phase.

Following turbinate reduction, patients experience significant improvement in nasal airflow, reduced dependence on medications, and better sleep quality. Long-term outcomes are favorable when underlying allergies are appropriately managed.