The turbinates are structures that humidify and moisten the air as it passes through the nose. There are 3 on each side of the nose, but the inferior turbinates are the ones that cause most of the congestion and reaction with allergies. These turbinates are the ones that are most often reduced during nose surgery or rhinoplasty.

In Houston, more of the turbinates can be reduced during rhinoplasty due to the humid climate. In colder climates where the air is dryer, turbinate reduction needs to be more conservative.

Dr. Funk is a nose surgery expert in Houston, TX.