Ascent Ear Nose & Throat
Inferior Turbinoplasty Specialist In Singapore
Inferior turbinoplasty is one of the various techniques to reduce the size of the turbinates and is generally a more extensive procedure than coblation of inferior turbinates.
When Do I Need Inferior Turbinoplasty?
Inferior turbinoplasty is recommended if you have:
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Persistent runny or blocked nose from an enlarged inferior turbinate
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Symptoms despite taking medications or using nasal sprays
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Not responded well to conservative treatment such as coblation of inferior turbinates
What Is Inferior Turbinoplasty?
Inferior turbinoplasty, also known as submucous resection of the inferior turbinate, is a minimally invasive procedure to remove a portion of the bone and nasal lining to treat inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Inferior turbinate hypertrophy is a condition where the tissues on the outside walls of the nose become inflamed and swollen due to infection, causing nasal obstruction.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any other surgical procedure, there are always side effects observed.
Some of the possible side effects include:
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Crusting or nose dryness
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Pain
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Bleeding
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Swelling
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Infection
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Change in the sense of smell
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A sensation that the nose is blocked despite having a large space in the nasal cavity after surgery (Empty nose syndrome)
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Recurrence of nasal congestion after the surgery
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Sheild Plan, or Medisave.
Please note: All three Ascent ENT clinics and all our doctors are recognized Prudential Panel providers, making it easier for Prudential policyholders to access specialist ENT care across our network. Please verify your specific plan coverage with Prudential before booking.
What Happens During Inferior Turbinoplasty?
Before the surgery, you should avoid consuming any food or drink, starting from the night before. You should also refrain from taking any medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen 2 weeks before the surgery to minimise the risk of bleeding.
During the surgery, your doctor will first administer general anaesthesia before inserting a thin, fibre-optic viewing instrument called an endoscope to examine your nasal passages and turbinates. Afterwards, a tiny incision will be made to remove part of the lining of each turbinate and the underlying bone. The remaining lining will then be folded back.
When the procedure is complete, you will be brought to a recovery ward, where you will be observed for any side effects while waiting for the anaesthetic to wear off. You will be allowed to go home once your doctor has assessed that everything is normal.
What To Expect Afterwards?

After your inferior turbinoplasty procedure, your doctor will advise you on some postoperative instructions on how to care for yourself during recovery. For example, they may recommend using a saline nasal spray or a cool-mist humidifier to treat nasal congestion. Alternatively, to prevent bleeding and swelling, you may also be required to avoid strenuous activities and avoid blowing your nose for several weeks after your surgery.
Visit Us Today
Our Clinic
Visit us at any of our 3 convenient locations in Singapore!
Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
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Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03/04/05
Singapore 228510
Other Practice Locations
Parkway East Medical Centre
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319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
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820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I take to recover after inferior turbinate reduction surgery?
Most people can return to their normal routine in about 3 weeks, while full recovery generally takes about 1 to 2 months.
Can turbinate tissues grow back again after surgery?
Yes. Turbinate tissues may regrow even after inferior turbinoplasty, making it necessary to undergo further turbinate reduction treatment.

