Turbinate Hypertrophy
In Chicago & Glenview, IL

Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago & Glenview, IL is led by Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who is quadruple board-certified.

Contact Us

Medically reviewed for accuracy.

On This Page
Turbinate Hypertrophy

How Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy Is Diagnosed
Treatments for Turbinate Reduction
What Are the Turbinates and What Do They Do?
What Causes the Turbinates to Swell?
What to Expect During Recovery After Turbinate Reduction
Is Turbinate Reduction Surgery Safe?
Will My Nose Appearance Change After Turbinate Surgery?
Why Choose Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa
Chicago Aesthetics Reviews & Testimonials

What Is
Turbinate Hypertrophy?

Chronic nasal obstruction or a stuffy nose is often caused in part by enlargement (hypertrophy) of the inferior turbinate. Congested nasal obstruction can impair normal breathing, forcing patients to breathe through the mouth and often affects their daily activities.

Enlarged turbinates and nasal obstruction can also contribute to headaches and sleep disorders such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, as the nasal airway is the normal breathing route during sleep.

How
Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy Is Diagnosed

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, a diagnosis of inferior turbinate hypertrophy can usually be made on your first visit. After taking your history an exam will be performed. During the exam, an endoscope, which is a small telescope with a light on one end and an eyepiece at the other, may be used to examine the inside of your nose. A CT Scan may be required to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatments for
Turbinate Reduction

There are several medications available to treat the symptoms (mainly congestion) caused by inferior turbinate hypertrophy. These include:

Nasal steroids sprays
Nasal antihistamine sprays
Oral decongestants
Oral Steroids

These medications are designed to help reduce swelling (inflammation) and improve nasal breathing.

Beautiful middle age hispanic woman standing with smile on face

What Causes the
Turbinates to Swell?

Turbinate hypertrophy can develop in response to various environmental factors and infections. The mucous membranes covering the turbinates contain numerous blood vessels and they shrink or swell easily in response to various factors. The turbinates can swell due to allergies, chemical or physical irritants, temperature changes, or acute sinus infections. This creates congestion as the airflow through the nose becomes blocked. These are usually temporary conditions, and the turbinates return to normal size and the person’s congestion clears.

Persistent inflammation, allergic reactions, and continuing exposure to various environmental irritants may lead to chronic swelling of the turbinates. This usually occurs in the inferior turbinates and is called turbinate hypertrophy. This makes it difficult for the person to breathe through his or her nose. Turbinate hypertrophy is associated with chronic sinus infections and can stem from an untreated deviated septum.

Removal of the factors causing irritation in the mucous membranes or treating the underlying allergies with nasal steroid sprays can reduce the swelling and improve breathing. But when this swelling is chronic, surgery may be required to reduce the size of the inferior turbinates.

What to Expect
During Recovery After Turbinate Reduction

Your recovery is individual, based on how much excess tissue Dr. Rachel had to remove and whether your turbinate surgery was combined with another procedure such as a septoplasty or a sinus dilation. You will get specific details during your consultations, but here are some general recovery guidelines.

These procedures can be minimally invasive, so the recovery is not overly difficult. Your nose will feel stuffy for a few days to a week, but your breathing may improve quickly.

What Are the
Turbinates and What Do They Do?

The turbinates are two spongy curled bones that protrude into the nasal passages. They can be found on both sides of the nasal cavity and are separated by the nasal septum. The turbinates are covered by respiratory epithelium covering a thick layer of vascular tissue. Named by their location, there are three turbinates: the inferior, middle, and superior turbinates. The inferior turbinate is the largest and most prone to swelling and blocking airflow.

The turbinates are responsible for directing the airflow inside the nasal cavity. The soft tissue covering them is responsible for humidifying, heating, and filtering inhaled air. It is important to humidify the air to prevent damage to the olfactory receptors that are responsible for the recognition of various scents and odors. The epithelial layer is also the first line of immunological defense, triggering a quick immune response at the signs of microbial or chemical irritation.

Is
Turbinate Reduction Surgery Safe?

This is a safe procedure. Dr. Rachel uses the most minimally invasive methods for these turbinoplasties. There can be some post-operative bleeding and bloody discharge, but this can be stemmed by the use of nasal saline mist spray every 2-3 hours. We will provide you will all the instructions on how to care for your sinuses after this procedure. This is a very successful, safe procedure.

Will My
Nose Appearance Change After Turbinate Surgery?

This procedure simply removes the excess tissue of the inferior turbinate. It does not change the external appearance of the patient’s nose when performed alone without additional nasal procedures.

Why Choose
Dr. Rachel

You want a clear recommendation, realistic expectations, and results that still look like you. At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview, we start with an anatomy-led plan based on your goals. We’ll tell you what we think will work, what won’t, and why. We explain your options in plain language, including what we would not recommend, so you can feel confident with your decision.

Dr. John D. Rachel, MD, FACS is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He is quadruple board-certified in Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. He completed residency training in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at Wayne State/Detroit Medical Center and a Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the Beeson Cosmetic Surgery Institute. He has been in practice since 2001, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and has published peer-reviewed research in facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation.

Book Now

Dr. Rachel and his team at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa in Chicago and Glenview

Chicago Aesthetics
Reviews & Testimonials

    Excellent4.8267 reviews
 4.8
 Excellent267 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
       
   Sara Glover 
 October 24, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Carol for treatment on my forehead using dysport. Carol was kind & quick, making sure my experience was comfortable! It was my first time receiving any form of injectables & Carol was able to ease my mind by answering all of my questions with patience & pure knowledge! Carol has years of experience & im so grateful she was my injector! I recommend everyone be treated by Carol for injectables!
  
 
      
   Nathaly Acuna 
 October 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone from the Doctors to staff, are amazingly professional and so sweet! Dr. Rachael’s knowledge and bedside manner make you feel so comfortable and at ease. I can’t recommend them enough!
  
 
      
   Monica Correa 
 October 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really liked how the staff treated me. Everyone was very kind and professional, and they made me feel comfortable and well cared for throughout the entire experience.
  
 
      
   Barbara Kuczma 
 October 14, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. John Rachel and his staff were wonderful to me. Made sure I was comfortable and kept me informed on everything they were going to do before, during and after my procedure.
I will highly recommend Dr. John Rachel and his wonderful staff.

Thank You,
Barbara Kuczma
  
 
      
   Stamata “Tami” Georgas 
 October 8, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional Talent, Timeless Results, and Unmatched Expertise!

When it comes to aesthetics, excellence is everything, and I can confidently say that Carol is truly in a league of her own.

Her expertise, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail are simply unparalleled. She has an extraordinary ability to enhance natural beauty while maintaining elegance, balance, and sophistication. Her results are consistently flawless, refreshed, and beautifully understated — the true definition of timeless beauty.

What makes Carol exceptional is not only her remarkable skill but also her integrity, professionalism, and genuine dedication to her clients. She understands that the finest aesthetic work is never obvious; it is effortlessly beautiful.

Two decades of loyalty speak for themselves. I trust her implicitly and would never consider putting my face in anyone else’s hands.

She is the epitome of excellence in aesthetic medicine, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. An absolute five-star experience, every single time!
  
 
      
   Danielle 
 October 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. **⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Review**

Stephanie was amazing! She did my laser hair removal treatment and made the entire experience so comfortable and easy. She was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all of my questions, which really put me at ease. The service was efficient, and I could tell she genuinely cared about providing great results and excellent customer care. I’m so happy with my experience and will definitely be coming back for future treatments. Highly recommend Stephanie to anyone considering laser hair removal!
  
 
      
   TG 
 October 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been coming to Carol for over 20 years, and that longevity truly speaks for itself. I continue to see her because she is incredibly educated, highly skilled, and genuinely listens to what you want and need.

She takes the time to understand your goals and creates a plan that enhances your natural features in a way that feels authentic and balanced. Her work is beautiful,  and refined. The results are always natural and confidence boosting.

Beyond her talent, I trust her completely. After two decades, I can confidently say she is consistent, professional, and truly cares about her patients.

If you're looking for perfection, Carol is definitely the person you should see! Highly recommended!
  
 
      
   Sam 
 October 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alison and Tom are the best. They have a tailored approach and explain what and why they recommend treatments. I’m so excited to be working with them as I head into my bridal era - I know I will look my best with their help. 100000/10 recommend to everyone but especially brides 😃
  
 
      
   Neha Patel 
 September 22, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. New update: I had a wonderful experience with Carol. She was professional, knowledgeable and paid attention to every detail to clearly explain my skin concerns. I’ll definitely be coming back!

The moment I walked into the clinic I felt a happy, welcomed and professional setting. I had my Sofwave treatment with Alison Falada, Master Esthetician and Laser Specialist. She was nothing short of amazing! She was personable, knowledgeable, skilled and detailed throughout the entire experience. She took the time to thoroughly explain the entire process, addressed all of my my questions and concerns. Alison is an expert and provided great quality service! I love my results and can't wait to book my next appointment with her!
  
 
      
   Chris C 
 September 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Carol has been doing my Botox for the last few years. She is kind, easy to talk to, makes herself available and approachable! Always feel at ease when I come see her and she does great work, goes by so fast, we are always done before I even know it. Highly recommend visiting her.

Conditions We Treat

At Chicago Aesthetic Surgery & Med Spa, we know that your goals are personal and your concerns are unique. View our complete guide to the most common concerns we treat and the solutions that deliver safe, natural-looking results.

View Conditions

We offer surgical & Non-Surgical
Services

At Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa, our team of board-certified cosmetic & plastic surgeons are renowned for their extensive training, unparalleled experience, and dedication to surgical artistry. Our entire staff is committed to helping you elevate your natural beauty and making your transformation journey one of the best decisions you'll ever make.

Take the first step towards your new self today. Schedule your complimentary virtual consultation with Chicago's top plastic surgeons when you sign up online—an exclusive offer valued at $250*.

Facial Plastic Surgery

Lasers

Skin & Body

Injectables

For Men

Wellness

Cosmetic Gynecology

Related
Blogs

Contact Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa
Get In Touch

Hours

Mon & Wed: 9am - 7pm
Tues, Thurs & Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat: 9am - 2pm
Sunday: CLOSED

About Us

Enhance your natural beauty with personalized skin, body, and wellness treatments from Chicago’s trusted med spa, led by Dr. John D. Rachel.

Learn More About Us