Turbinate Reduction — Enlarged lower turbinates are often the cause of long-term nasal stuffiness. Even after the underlying issue (like a chronic infection or allergies) has been treated, the swelling can remain. Below is a picture of a newer tool called a plasma wand. The tip of the wand creates a small, high-energy cloud that can shrink the lower turbinate. Other options for shrinking the turbinate include the Somnus radio-frequency device, and simply removing some tissue directly. Different situations call for different methods.