We have already discussed nose surgery (rhinoplasty) on other occasions. These procedures are usually performed on patients seeking a cosmetic change or an improvement in the functionality of their respiratory passages. What we have not yet discussed is Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS).
Let us dive into the causes of ENS. It is not a genetic, contagious, or congenital condition. It is mainly an iatrogenic condition. What does this strange word mean? Simply that ENS is caused by medical treatments and, in some rare cases, by malpractice. At our clinic, we often see cases of people who require reconstructive surgery as a result of poorly performed cosmetic or functional surgery. Patients with Empty Nose Syndrome are one of these cases. Although it is very atypical, it can have very negative effects on the patient’s health.
However, in some exceptional situations, Empty Nose Syndrome may be unavoidable. This is the case with cancerous tumours in the nasal cavities, which force the surgeon to radically remove the patient’s nasal structures.
What are the effects of Empty Nose Syndrome?
One of the main problems with Empty Nose Syndrome is that it has not been widely researched, like so many diseases that affect a small part of society. However, this does not mean that it is an unimportant condition. The main symptoms experienced by patients with ENS are chronic dryness of the nose and throat, difficulty breathing, suffocation, discomfort with nasal sensations, difficulty sleeping and concentrating, and a generally depressed and irritable mood.
Empty Nose Syndrome is a physically, cognitively, and emotionally debilitating condition, as proper functioning of the nasal passages is crucial for lung and respiratory function, cognitive function, and, ultimately, well-being.
How is Empty Nose Syndrome treated?
Fortunately, we can treat Empty Nose Syndrome with surgery, although it would be best not to have to reach this point, as it is a condition that could be avoided by a good initial treatment. However, patients with this condition who require reconstructive surgery continue to arrive.
The correction of ENS is focused on restoring the anatomical structure of the nasal passages, ensuring that the airflow encounters the required resistance necessary to moisten it and bring it to the required temperature. Techniques such as fat grafts and internal mucosal flaps are often used with good results. In other cases where mucosal atrophy is associated, regenerative treatment with adult stem cells from adipose tissue and/or cytokines may also be necessary.
In those that present with an important anatomy destruction, rib or ear cartilage grafts to reconstruct the turbinates and/or nasal septum are necessary.
If you think you have Empty Nose Syndrome, contact us and schedule an initial appointment so Dr. Barret can provide a personalized assessment.
