Concerns After Turbinate Reduction Surgery
I’m a 32-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds. I maintain a healthy lifestyle without any smoking or alcohol use, and the only medical condition I have is Alopecia on my beard. About three to four weeks ago, I underwent surgery related to turbinate reduction, and since then, I’ve noticed an unsettling development. There's a small cavity in the mucosa of my septum, but it doesn’t extend all the way through. My primary worry is whether this will resolve on its own, as I'm quite anxious about the possibility of a perforation. Moreover, my turbinates are situated quite a distance from the septum, which adds to my confusion over the situation. Currently, I’m applying an antibiotic nasal cream and performing nasal rinses about four to five times daily to manage the situation.
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 4:50:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
Given your recent turbinate reduction surgery and the concerns about the cavity in your septum, it's understandable to feel anxious about possible complications. However, small mucosal changes are not uncommon after nasal surgeries, and many minor issues can resolve themselves as your body heals.
Explanation
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Mucosal Cavity: The cavity you’re observing might be a temporary change due to post-surgical healing and isn’t necessarily indicative of a perforation. The nasal mucosa can sometimes be sensitive and can develop minor areas of irritation or changes after surgery.
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Healing Process: The healing process in the nasal passages can take time, and it's important to give your body the opportunity to recover. The fact that the cavity doesn’t extend all the way through is reassuring but should be monitored.
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Current Care Routine: Applying an antibiotic nasal cream and performing nasal rinses are good practices. These help keep the nasal passages clean and may promote healing.
Next Steps
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Continue Your Current Routine: Keep applying the antibiotic cream and performing nasal rinses. This will help reduce irritation and the risk of infection.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes. If you notice increasing pain, bleeding, or a change in nasal airflow, it's essential to reassess your situation.
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Stay Hydrated and Use Humidifiers: Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can help maintain moisture in your nasal passages, which may assist in your healing.
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Reassess After a Few Weeks: If the cavity does not improve or worsens over the next few weeks, consider seeking further evaluation. It may be beneficial to get a follow-up with your surgeon or a specialist to ensure proper healing.
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Keep a Journal: Document any changes in your symptoms to track your recovery effectively. This can also be useful if you decide to consult a healthcare provider later on.
Your surgical recovery can take time, and maintaining a calm and proactive focus on your healing will be beneficial. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to reach out.
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