Do you struggle with a blocked or stuffy nose that makes it difficult to breathe comfortably? If nasal congestion is affecting your sleep, exercise, or daily activities, you may be dealing with nasal obstruction. Fortunately, there are treatment options available that can help improve nasal airflow without traditional surgery.
One such option is VivAer®, a non-invasive treatment designed to improve nasal breathing by reshaping tissue inside the nose. This innovative procedure can provide relief for patients who experience chronic nasal obstruction.
What Is VivAer®?
VivAer® is a minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled radiofrequency energy to remodel tissue inside the nose. The procedure specifically targets the nasal valve area, which is one of the narrowest parts of the nasal airway and can contribute significantly to nasal obstruction.
Research has shown that VivAer® can provide significant and long-lasting improvements in nasal breathing for appropriate patients. You can read more about the clinical research here.
How Does VivAer® Work?
During the procedure, a small handheld device is placed inside the nasal passage. The device delivers controlled radiofrequency energy to specific areas of tissue that contribute to nasal obstruction.
The energy gently remodels the targeted tissue, helping to widen the nasal airway and improve airflow. Because the treatment is minimally invasive, there is generally less discomfort and downtime compared with traditional nasal surgery.
Who May Benefit From VivAer®?
VivAer® may be an option for adults who experience chronic nasal obstruction caused by issues such as nasal valve collapse or other structural problems within the nasal airway.
Patients who have tried medications such as nasal sprays or antihistamines but continue to experience difficulty breathing through their nose may also benefit from an evaluation.
A qualified ENT specialist can determine whether VivAer® is appropriate based on your symptoms, medical history, and nasal anatomy.
Benefits of VivAer® Treatment
- Minimally invasive treatment
- No traditional surgical incisions
- Designed to improve nasal airflow
- Typically performed in an office setting
- Minimal downtime for many patients
- Can provide long-lasting improvement in nasal breathing
What to Expect During Treatment
VivAer® treatment is typically performed in an ENT office. Your provider will first numb the treatment area to help ensure your comfort during the procedure.
The VivAer® device is then carefully positioned inside the nasal passage and radiofrequency energy is applied to targeted areas. The procedure generally takes a short amount of time, and many patients are able to return to their normal activities relatively quickly.
Is VivAer® Right for You?
If you regularly experience nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through your nose, VivAer® may be worth discussing with an ENT specialist.
Dr. Herndon and his team can evaluate your nasal airway and determine whether VivAer® or another treatment option is best suited to your individual needs. Learn more about VivAer® treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About VivAer®
Is VivAer® painful?
VivAer® is designed to be a comfortable, minimally invasive procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area before the procedure.
How long does VivAer® treatment take?
The treatment is generally performed in a relatively short office visit. Your provider can give you a more specific estimate based on your individual treatment plan.
How long is the recovery after VivAer®?
Because VivAer® is minimally invasive, most patients experience minimal downtime. Your provider will give you specific post-treatment instructions based on your procedure.
Can VivAer® help with nasal obstruction?
VivAer® is specifically designed to improve nasal airflow in patients with certain types of nasal obstruction. An evaluation by an ENT specialist can help determine whether you are a suitable candidate.
Schedule a Consultation
If nasal obstruction is making it difficult for you to breathe comfortably, it may be time to explore your treatment options. Dr. Herndon can evaluate your symptoms and discuss whether VivAer® may be appropriate for you.
Learn more about Dr. Herndon and the available ENT services, or visit our office to learn more about scheduling a consultation.
For more information about nasal obstruction, you can also visit the Cleveland Clinic’s guide to nasal obstruction.