Nasal adhesion surgery is the surgical opening of obstructions caused by tissues sticking together within the nasal cavity. This condition generally develops due to trauma or previous surgeries.
The surgery is performed using endoscopic methods to remove the adhesions and open the nasal passage. When considered necessary, silicone splints are used to reduce the risk of the tissues adhering again.
Nasal adhesions may cause difficulty breathing, loss of smell, and frequent infections. Regular postoperative check-ups help preserve intranasal health.
Permanent solutions can be achieved through the correct surgical technique and proper care. Early intervention significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.
| Nasal Adhesion (Synechia) | It is the narrowing of the nasal passage caused by tissue surfaces adhering to each other after trauma, infection, or previous surgical procedures inside the nose. These adhesions may lead to problems such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and loss of smell. |
| Purpose of the Surgery | The main purpose of adhesion surgery is to open narrowed areas in the nasal passage, improve airflow, and restore normal nasal function by releasing the adherent tissues inside the nose. |
| Preoperative Preparation | A detailed endoscopic examination is performed before surgery. The doctor may use imaging tests to determine the location and severity of the adhesions. It is recommended to discontinue blood-thinning medications and stop smoking before surgery. |
| Surgical Techniques | The adherent areas are carefully cut and the intranasal passages are opened. Silicone splints (supportive packing) may be used during surgery. These devices help keep the nasal passage open during the healing process. |
| Type of Anesthesia | The surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia, but local anesthesia may also be preferred in some cases. The choice of anesthesia is determined according to the patient’s condition and the location of the adhesion. |
| Recovery Process | Swelling and mild bleeding may occur in the nose after surgery. Silicone splints are generally removed after a few weeks. Complete recovery may take several weeks to several months, and it is important to care for the inside of the nose as recommended by the doctor. |
| Complications | There is a risk of the adhesion recurring after surgery. Complications such as infection, bleeding, or dryness inside the nose may occur. |
| Postoperative Restrictions | After surgery, impacts to the nose, strenuous exercise, and environments that may dry the inside of the nose should be avoided. Nasal cleaning should be performed as recommended by the doctor. |
| Medical Check-ups | Regular medical check-ups after surgery are important to ensure proper healing and prevent the adhesions from recurring. |
İçindekiler
What Is a Nasal Adhesion?
A nasal adhesion is a condition in which opposing tissues inside the nasal cavity adhere to each other during the healing process and narrow the airway. It generally occurs after nasal surgeries, trauma, or infections. Symptoms include nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and a sensation of pressure inside the nose. Treatment includes surgically separating the adhesions and taking measures to prevent them from recurring.
What Is Nasal Adhesion Surgery?
Nasal adhesion surgery is performed to eliminate adhesions inside the nose. These scar tissues most commonly develop between the nasal septum and structures called the turbinates. Therefore, this operation aims to normalize airflow through the nasal passages. During this procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia, doctors carefully separate the connections between the mucosal surfaces. This provides easier breathing for patients who have previously undergone nose surgery or experienced trauma. After treatment, the improvement in the patient’s nasal functions becomes visibly noticeable. The recovery process is generally rapid, and patients can return to their daily lives within a short time.
How Is Nasal Adhesion Surgery Performed?
Nasal adhesion surgery involves a delicate and detailed process. First, local anesthesia is preferred. The doctor applies an anesthetic spray or injection to the nasal tissues. Depending on the situation, general anesthesia may also be selected to improve the patient’s comfort. The use of an endoscope during surgery is essential. Thanks to this thin, illuminated instrument, the surgeon can examine the inside of the nose in detail and determine the exact location of the adhesions.
The special instruments used in the treatment of adhesions are as follows:
- Surgical Scissors: Their sharp tips effectively cut the adhesions.
- Laser: It is ideal for tissue cutting and coagulation procedures.
After the adhesions are separated, measures are taken to support healing and prevent the tissues from adhering again. Following the surgical procedure, spacers or splints are placed inside the nose. These materials may remain in the nose for varying periods depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s recovery process.
Who Is Suitable for Nasal Adhesion Surgery?
Nasal adhesion surgery is a surgical intervention recommended for certain patients. This operation may be necessary, especially when adhesions that cause persistent obstruction in the nasal cavity are present. Adhesions that develop after previous nose surgeries may make repeat surgery necessary for patients. Adhesions inside the nose caused by chronic inflammatory conditions or trauma may make breathing difficult. Individuals experiencing such complications are generally suitable candidates for surgery. Conditions that obstruct sinus drainage may also require surgery. Adhesions associated with conditions such as chronic rhinosinusitis that do not respond to treatment and cause frequently recurring infections are also included in this group. Severe nasal congestion and recurrent infections are important factors that reduce quality of life.
The specific criteria for surgery are as follows:
- Those experiencing adhesions caused by previous nose surgeries.
- Those who develop adhesions as a result of chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Those suffering from severe nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
- Those suffering from recurrent sinus infections.
- Those whose sinus drainage is impaired due to adhesions.
What Are the Risks of Nasal Adhesion Surgery?
Recurrence of the adhesions is a common problem. This may require the patient to undergo another operation. The risk of infection also increases the importance of postoperative care. Saline irrigation and antibiotic use may help reduce the risk of infection.
- Recurrence of adhesions: It may cause the patient to undergo additional surgeries.
- Infection: Postoperative infections may make healing more difficult.
- Bleeding: Significant bleeding may occur both during and after surgery.
- Crusting and Granulation: Crusting and granulation tissue formation may occur during the healing process.
- Scarring and Mucosal Damage: Surgical intervention may cause scarring and damage to the nasal mucosa.
- Pain and Discomfort: Although pain can be managed with analgesics, it may be a source of discomfort for patients.
- Prolonged Recovery Time: Recovery times may vary, and certain complications may prolong healing.
- Effect on Nasal Function: Difficulty breathing may occur after surgery.
What Is the Recovery Process Like After Nasal Adhesion Surgery?
The recovery process after nasal adhesion surgery consists of several stages. First, there is an early recovery period that begins immediately after surgery. During this period, the patient should take the necessary care to control bleeding inside the nose. Absorbable or non-absorbable packing is used during the first few days. In addition, antibiotic and steroid treatment is administered to minimize the risk of infection and keep inflammation under control. Prescription medications are given for pain control, while regular saline rinsing is recommended to keep the nasal passages clean and moist.
Early Postoperative Period (1-2 Weeks):
- Bleeding control
- Antibiotic use
- Pain management
- Nasal rinsing with saline
During the second stage, the intermediate recovery period, mucosal edema and granulation tissue may be observed. Careful monitoring and occasional necessary interventions may be performed during this period.
Intermediate Recovery Stage (3-10 Weeks):
- Monitoring mucosal edema and granulation tissue
- Medical interventions if necessary
The final stage, the late recovery period, is characterized by the complete regeneration of the nasal mucosa. During this period, continued nasal irrigation and the use of mucosal protective agents are important for the complete recovery of nasal functions.
Late Recovery Stage (11-14 Weeks):
- Complete regeneration of the nasal mucosa
- Continued nasal irrigation
- Mucosal protective applications
What Should Be Considered After Nasal Adhesion Surgery?
Following nasal adhesion surgery, there are several important points that patients should pay attention to in order to manage the recovery process in the best possible way. Some guidelines that should be followed during the postoperative period are as follows:
Nasal irrigation with saline solution is important for preventing crusting and the accumulation of debris inside the nose. It preserves mucociliary clearance and minimizes inflammation.
Antibiotics and corticosteroids that may be prescribed by your doctor depending on the situation reduce the risk of infection and prevent inflammation and scar tissue formation.
Regular doctor visits should be made to monitor the recovery process. Endoscopic examinations are generally performed during these visits.
- Activity restrictions: Strenuous lifting and intense physical activities should be avoided during the first few weeks after surgery.
- Pain and discomfort management: Over-the-counter painkillers are generally sufficient.
- Avoiding irritants: Avoiding exposure to smoke, dust, and other airborne irritants positively affects the recovery process.
- Hydration and humidity: Using a humidifier at home keeps the nasal mucosa at an ideal moisture level.
- Monitoring complications: Signs of complications, such as symptoms of infection, should be monitored and reported to the doctor immediately.

Prof. Dr. Murat Songu – Burun Estetiği (Rinoplasti) Uzmanı
Prof. Dr. Murat Songu, 1976 yılında İzmir’de doğmuş, tıp eğitimini Ege Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi’nde tamamladıktan sonra Celal Bayar Üniversitesi Kulak Burun Boğaz Anabilim Dalı’nda uzmanlık eğitimini tamamlamıştır. 2005–2006 yıllarında Fransa’nın Bordeaux kentinde Prof. Vincent Darrouzet ve Dr. Guy Lacher gibi rinoloji alanının önde gelen cerrahlarıyla çalışarak rinoplasti, fonksiyonel burun cerrahisi ve kafa tabanı cerrahisi üzerine ileri eğitim almıştır.
Burun estetiğinde doğal görünüm, nefes fonksiyonunun korunması ve yüz estetiği dengesini ön planda tutan Prof. Dr. Songu, açık teknik rinoplasti, piezo (ultrasonik) rinoplasti, revizyon rinoplasti, burun ucu estetiği ve fonksiyonel septorinoplasti operasyonlarında ulusal ve uluslararası düzeyde tanınan bir cerrahtır. Yurt içi ve yurt dışında çok sayıda rinoplasti kongresinde eğitici ve konuşmacı olarak yer almış; yüz estetiği ve burun cerrahisinde modern tekniklerin yaygınlaşmasına öncülük etmiştir.
100’den fazla bilimsel yayını, kitap bölümü yazarlıkları ve 1700’ü aşkın uluslararası atfıyla rinoplasti alanında Türkiye’nin en saygın akademisyenlerinden biri olan Prof. Dr. Murat Songu, doğal, yüzle uyumlu ve fonksiyonel sonuçlar hedefleyen cerrahi yaklaşımıyla hem bilimsel hem estetik başarıları bir araya getirmektedir.

