Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) Treatment in Los Angeles

Expert Care from Dr. Hootan Zandifar, Board-Certified ENT Surgeon

Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) is a rare but serious condition that can profoundly affect your quality of life. Characterized by paradoxical nasal obstruction, despite having an open nasal airway, ENS patients often feel as though they can’t breathe properly through their nose. This leads to symptoms that are not only physical but also psychological, including chronic dryness, a suffocating sensation, and anxiety.

At Zandifar MD in Los Angeles, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Empty Nose Syndrome with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Hootan Zandifar, a board-certified Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgeon, is nationally recognized for his experience and success in treating ENS. His empathetic, evidence-based approach ensures that every patient receives tailored care designed to restore both function and peace of mind.

What is Empty Nose Syndrome?

Empty Nose Syndrome is a condition typically caused by over-resection of the nasal turbinates—structures inside the nose responsible for humidifying and filtering air. When these turbinates are removed or excessively reduced during surgery, airflow becomes turbulent, and the nose no longer provides the resistance necessary for a normal breathing sensation.
Despite a clear nasal passage, patients experience a feeling of obstruction, leading to:

  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Sensation of suffocation
  • Chronic nasal dryness
  • Burning or pain inside the nose
  • Frequent crusting or nosebleeds
  • Reduced sense of smell
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Fatigue and cognitive impairment
  • Anxiety or depression

Why Choose Dr. Hootan Zandifar for ENS Treatment?

Dr. Hootan Zandifar is a renowned specialist in nasal and sinus disorders, including Empty Nose Syndrome. With a meticulous understanding of nasal anatomy and airflow dynamics, Dr. Zandifar provides accurate diagnosis and long-term solutions for patients who have struggled to find relief elsewhere.

Credentials and Expertise:

  • Board-Certified Otolaryngologist
  • Fellowship-trained in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Nationally published on nasal and sinus conditions
  • Frequently sought for second opinions on complex ENS cases
  • Combines surgical precision with compassionate, patient-centered care

With years of specialized experience in turbinate surgery, nasal reconstruction, and complex nasal breathing disorders, Dr. Zandifar is one of the few ENT surgeons in Los Angeles offering customized ENS treatment options backed by clinical research and patient success.

Our ENS Diagnostic Approach

Proper diagnosis of ENS is critical and requires a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, nasal endoscopy, and diagnostic airflow testing.
At Zandifar MD, our diagnostic protocol includes:

  • Detailed consultation and symptom mapping
  • High-definition nasal endoscopy to visualize structural changes
  • CT scanning to assess sinus anatomy and turbinate status
  • Nasal airflow testing to determine the extent of functional disruption
  • Cotton test (temporary turbinate augmentation) to assess responsiveness to treatment

This thorough process allows us to confirm the diagnosis and identify the most appropriate treatment strategy based on your unique anatomy and symptoms.

Personalized Treatment for Empty Nose Syndrome

Because each ENS case is unique, we offer customized, step-by-step treatment plans designed to restore nasal airflow balance and improve quality of life.

Non-Surgical Treatments:

For mild to moderate ENS, conservative treatment may provide meaningful relief:

  • Saline irrigation and humidification therapy
  • Topical ointments and nasal moisturizers
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for mucosal regeneration
  • Behavioral therapy or counseling to address secondary anxiety or depression

Surgical Treatments:

For severe or refractory cases, ENS reconstruction surgery may be necessary. Dr. Zandifar uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques to rebuild the lost turbinate tissue and restore natural airflow:

  • Turbinate augmentation using implants (autologous or synthetic)
  • Cartilage grafting to reshape internal nasal contours
  • Mucosal tissue grafting to restore moisture-retaining surfaces
  • Nasal valve repair, if needed

These procedures are meticulously planned using your CT imaging and airflow testing results to ensure anatomical harmony and symptom resolution.

ENS Recovery and Long-Term Outcomes

Patients undergoing ENS treatment at Zandifar MD report significant improvements in breathing function, comfort, and emotional well-being. Recovery timelines vary, but most patients experience:

  • Reduced suffocating sensation
  • Less dryness and irritation
  • Improved sleep and focus
  • Increased confidence and emotional relief

Dr. Zandifar provides ongoing follow-up care, including post-operative imaging and nasal function testing, to ensure the treatment continues to deliver optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What causes Empty Nose Syndrome?

ENS is most commonly caused by over-aggressive turbinate reduction surgery, which alters the internal nasal anatomy and disrupts normal airflow and mucosal function.

Can ENS be cured?

While there is no one-size-fits-all cure, many ENS patients experience long-term relief through tailored treatment, including surgical reconstruction and conservative therapies.

How do I know if I have ENS or something else?

ENS has overlapping symptoms with other nasal conditions. A comprehensive evaluation with an ENT specialist like Dr. Zandifar is essential to differentiate ENS from conditions like allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or nasal valve collapse.

What is the cotton test for ENS?

The cotton test involves placing small cotton pieces inside the nose to simulate the presence of turbinate tissue. If symptoms improve, it suggests you may benefit from turbinate augmentation surgery.

Is surgery safe for treating ENS?

Yes, in experienced hands. Dr. Zandifar’s minimally invasive surgical techniques are designed to restore balance and function while minimizing risk and downtime.

How long is the recovery after ENS surgery?

Recovery typically ranges from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery. Most patients can resume light activity within a few days and return to full normal function after follow-up clearance.

Schedule a Consultation with Zandifar MD

If you’re suffering from Empty Nose Syndrome or suspect your breathing issues may be ENS-related, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and expert intervention can make a dramatic difference.

Call (310) 286-0123 or book your consultation online with Dr. Hootan Zandifar at our Los Angeles office. We’re here to help you breathe freely and feel whole again.