Review symptoms and previous treatment
Bring your medication list. The doctor reviews congestion, allergy symptoms, sleep and response to previous care.
RAJVITHI CLINIC • ENT CHIANG MAI
Persistent blocked nose? Explore RF turbinate reduction
Minimally invasive reduction of inferior turbinates using radiofrequency energy when clinically indicated
RF assessment and treatment by Dr. Poj Pinyopornpanish
Tuesday & Thursday, 5:00–7:00 PM • Saturday & Sunday, 9:00–11:30 AM
Walk in for an assessment during these hours. RF treatment is scheduled after the doctor assesses suitability.
YOUR SYMPTOMS
A blocked nose affecting sleep or everyday life?
Persistent congestion, mouth breathing or symptoms despite medication deserve an assessment before choosing a procedure.
Enlarged inferior turbinates
Turbinates help condition inhaled air. Enlargement can narrow nasal airflow; allergy or inflammation may contribute.
Other causes of obstruction
A deviated septum, polyps, sinus disease or prolonged use of some decongestant sprays may contribute. Turbinate RF does not address every cause.
Seek timely assessment
Persistent one-sided obstruction, recurrent bleeding or worsening symptoms should be assessed rather than assumed to be allergy.
ENT ASSESSMENT
Understand the cause before considering RF
Examination and endoscopy when indicated
Nasal endoscopy can help inspect areas less visible from the front, including turbinates, the septum and other abnormalities. Further tests depend on findings.
Choose treatment for the cause
Medication, saline care and allergy management may be adjusted first. RF may be considered when enlarged turbinates contribute substantially and appropriate medical treatment has been insufficient.
Overview
What is radiofrequency turbinoplasty
RF turbinoplasty delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the turbinate lining to reduce enlarged tissue, usually with local anaesthesia. Tissue shrinks gradually after treatment. Results vary, and medication or other treatment may still be needed.
Suitability
Who may benefit, and what are the limits?
The decision depends on the cause of symptoms, nasal anatomy, and prior treatment.
People with chronic obstruction when endoscopy confirms significant turbinate enlargement
Those who have tried appropriate non-surgical treatment first
Patients who understand improvement may be gradual and repeat treatment may be needed
May be less suitable if the main issue is septal deviation or polyps without addressing those factors
Bleeding disorders, pregnancy, or active severe infection require additional assessment
Children and older adults are assessed individually for suitability
Procedure
How the procedure is performed
Steps may vary by device and plan. Typical steps include:
Pre-procedure assessment
History, examination, and nasal endoscopy. The doctor explains goals, alternatives, and risks.
Local anaesthesia
Numbing spray or injection in the nose; decongestants may reduce temporary swelling.
RF probe placement
The probe is inserted submucosally in the inferior turbinate and RF energy is applied to targeted tissue.
Tissue volume reduction
Tissue gradually shrinks over subsequent weeks. Both sides may be treated as needed.
Post-procedure care
Brief observation at clinic, saline rinse instructions, and scheduled follow-up.
Outcomes and recovery
Benefits, risks, and recovery
The following is general guidance. Outcomes vary between individuals.
Possible benefits: Nasal breathing may improve when turbinate enlargement is a main cause. Improvement often develops gradually over weeks.
Not everyone achieves complete relief; medication or repeat procedures may be needed.
Common risks: Discomfort, crusting, minor bleeding, or temporary congestion.
Less common risks: Infection, scarring, or temporary worsening of symptoms.
Repeat RF or combined surgery (e.g. septoplasty) may be needed if other factors contribute.
Recovery: Saline rinses as advised; avoid forceful nose blowing initially.
Follow-up: Attend scheduled visits to assess response and plan ongoing care.
FEES
Plan your RF turbinoplasty assessment
Ask about details and fees on LINE.
Ask whether medication, consultation, endoscopy and follow-up are included or charged separately.
An ENT assessment determines suitability. Outcomes and ongoing care vary between patients.
FAQ
Common questions
Is the procedure painful
Local anaesthesia is used. You may feel pressure or mild discomfort during treatment. Temporary congestion afterward is common; your doctor will advise care.
How long does it take
Often about 15–30 minutes depending on how many sides are treated. Hospital admission is usually not required.
When will breathing improve
Tissue shrinkage occurs gradually over weeks. Some people notice change sooner than others; there is no fixed timeline.
How is this different from open turbinate surgery
RF is minimally invasive via a submucosal probe. Other surgical approaches may suit more complex anatomy; your doctor will recommend what fits your case.
Will I need repeat treatment
Some patients have lasting benefit; others may need repeat RF or additional treatment depending on cause and response.
Does nasal RF cure allergies or sleep apnea?
It targets obstruction from enlarged turbinates. Allergy care may still be needed, and nasal RF is not a universal treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring with witnessed pauses or daytime sleepiness needs further assessment.
What does RF turbinoplasty cost?
Contact the clinic for the current fee and clarify medication, consultation, endoscopy and follow-up charges before deciding.
Can I walk in and have RF on the same day?
RF assessment and treatment by Dr. Poj Pinyopornpanish Tuesday & Thursday, 5:00–7:00 PM • Saturday & Sunday, 9:00–11:30 AM Walk in for an assessment during these hours. RF treatment is scheduled after the doctor assesses suitability.
Plan your ENT visit
Nasal endoscopy
Examination and preparation
Nasal obstruction
Possible causes and assessment
Our doctors
Meet the clinic's ENT doctors
Snoring and sleep apnea
Individual assessment and treatment
Consult an ENT specialist
RF assessment and treatment by Dr. Poj Pinyopornpanish • Tuesday & Thursday, 5:00–7:00 PM • Saturday & Sunday, 9:00–11:30 AM • Walk in for an assessment during these hours. RF treatment is scheduled after the doctor assesses suitability.