Post-operative nasal stuffiness is completely normal and typically peaks during the first week to ten days following a turbinate reduction procedure due to temporary internal swelling, healing crusts, and post-surgical inflammation. As the body clears debris and internal mucosal tissues begin remodeling, this congestion gradually subsides. Most patients experience a significant turning point around week two or three, where breathing opens up dramatically, though full clearance and stabilization of airflow can take anywhere from six to twelve weeks.