Seeger J et al. Laryngoscope Volume 113(1), January 2003, pp 130-135

My take:

I have recently been asked about the chance of empty nose syndrome or atrophic rhinitis following coblation therapy to the turbinates. Although this is a theoretical risk with multiple procedures, to my knowledge and after a literature review this has never been reported after a radiofrequency procedure, even with multiple sessions. This article is the only one which mentions it as a potential side effect. There are others with larger numbers on coblation showing a low chance of nasal crusting but they did not specifically mention the empty nose. 

The study shows minimal pain, excellent results, and no long-term complications.

Summary:

This is a German study looking at a device similar to the coblation device used in my clinic for turbinate reduction clled the Celon Bipolar Radiofrequency Applicator. The study was used to determine the efficacy and the chance of complications as a follow-up to an original animal model showing safety.

Thirty eight patients with nasal obstruction received this procedure. They received 1 to 2 passes in each turbinate.

Results:

Nearly 100% of patients noticed a sustained improvement in nasal breathing within 2 weeks of the procedure.

Objective measurements showed improved nasal airflow by 30%.

Complications:

Crusting was noticed in 68% which lasted from a couple days to a few weeks.

There was blood in nasal secretions in 37% which lasted a few days.

There were no other complications – specifically no patient had rhinitis sicca or empty nose.