Turbinoplasty & Nasal Polyps Surgery For Sleep Apnea

CAN A TURBINOPLASTY CURE OR PREVENT SLEEP APNEA?

Turbinates are structures on the side wall inside your nose that project into the nasal passages and help warm and moisturize air as it flows through the nose. Due to a variety of causes, including allergies, infections, and even pregnancy, the turbinates can swell. Patients who have a deviated septum also frequently have enlarged turbinates. Enlarged turbinates can block nasal airflow and contribute to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If you suffer from chronic congestion and have difficulty breathing through your nose, a turbinoplasty procedure may be recommended by your physician. As with a septoplasty, which helps correct a deviated septum, the turbinoplasty procedure is not a cure unto itself for sleep apnea. However, it is known to be effective for improving air flow and relieving symptoms of sleep apnea, including snoring, fatigue, poor sleep patterns, headaches – and more. The diagnosis of enlarged/swollen turbinates is made by your physician with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms along with a nasal examination. Your doctor may perform an in-office procedure called a nasal endoscopy to diagnose the cause of your nasal obstruction.

What does a turbinoplasty involve?

Turbinoplasty is an outpatient procedure typically done with general anesthesia. During the surgery, bone or mucous membrane will be removed from enlarged turbinates – but enough bone and mucous membrane will remain so the turbinates can do their job. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes. In some cases, the turbinoplasty may be done in conjunction with a septoplasty. Following turbinoplasty, our team will provide detailed instructions on post-surgical care and follow-up. Most patients do not require pain medication and can return to work or school the next day without nasal packing. Over the next three to six weeks, the patient should start to experience improved nasal airflow.

Is turbinoplasty covered by insurance?

Turbinoplasty for the treatment of sleep apnea may be covered by health insurance if it is medically prescribed specifically for the treatment of sleep apnea. The only way to receive coverage for any sleep apnea treatment is to have a sleep test conducted by a recognized sleep center and board certified doctor like those at NYC SleepWell. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment with NYC SleepWell. Based on an oral history and physical exam, we’ll determine if further testing is required. Our financial specialists are always available to help gather your insurance information and contact your insurance provider in order to determine your coverage. Please feel free to call us to schedule your appointment and answer any questions you may have.

Why choose NYC SleepWell for a turbinoplasty?

Led by Dr. Ruben Cohen, a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, our skilled team of sleep specialists, dentists, orthodontists, ENT surgeons, and anaesthesiologists have extensive experience in turbinoplasties — in addition to other surgical treatments for a wide array of conditions related to sleep apnea. For your added peace-of-mind, our facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), the Gold Standard in Accreditation. Our goal at NYC SleepWell, plain and simple, is to help you sleep well – and be healthy!