At your consultation, Dr. Kridel and Dr. Delaney complete a thorough examination, including an evaluation of the internal septum and other key internal nasal passage structures called turbinates. The turbinates, three in each nasal passage, are finger-like shelves attached to the lateral wall of the nasal passages. Their function is to help moisturize, filter, and warm incoming air—the lower, or inferior, turbinate plays a major part in airflow volume. Enlargement of the turbinates takes up valuable space and can cause nasal obstruction. In these cases, Dr. Kridel and Dr. Delaney will recommend inferior turbinate surgery to help improve your nasal obstruction.