Breathe Better with VIVAER

Statistics show that 1/3 of the population suffers from nasal obstruction. Trouble breathing can be caused by many factors including a deviated septum, collapsed nasal valve, allergies, mucosal swelling, inferior turbinate hypertrophy and other issues. Treatment for nasal obstruction can often be multifactorial, however VIVAER is a novel new treatment that addresses multiple levels of nasal obstruction.

Take a short quiz to see if VIVAER is right for you

What Is VIVAER?

VIVAER is a cutting edge minimally invasive radiofrequency (heat) treatment that helps improve three different issues causing nasal obstruction. Using a time tested technique of radiofrequency, VIVAER helps decrease nasal obstruction by decreasing the swelling and inflammation inside the nose.

There are a number of procedures that help reduce inflammation in the nose, but only VIVAER helps reduce the size of the turbinates AND decrease swelling of the septal mucosa. While MOST ENT surgeons will concentrate on a deviated septum and enlarged turbinates, they oftentimes overlook septal swell bodies.

Septal Swell Bodies are caused by long term turbulent air flow in the nasal cavity. The sepal mucosa (lining of the septum) becomes inflamed and can cause obstruction high in the nasal cavity. VIVAER helps reduce the swell bodies and the turbinates.

More importantly, VIVAER helps improve obstruction at the most important part of the nasal cavity. The nostrils are the first part of the nose that obstruction can occur. We know from Bernoullis principle (link) that increasing the radius (link) of the nose can increase the airflow to the fourth power! That means that even 1/2 of a millimeter of increase will lead to a 16x increase in airflow. VIVAER helps treat this problem by causing contraction of the skin and strengthening of the lower lateral cartilage. When the septum is deviated there is often turbulent airflow on the inside of the nose. This can cause a reactionary change in pressure that can destabilize the cartilage and decrease the radius of the nose over time. On inspiration, often times there is a collapse of the cartilage. VIVAER helps strengthen that cartilage using radiofrequency. This is a time tested technique used frequently in anti-aging cosmetic treatments.

Am I A Candidate For VIVAER?

The best candidates for VIVAER are those with minimal deviation of the septum and significant swelling in the nasal cavity. Good candidates are also those with paradoxical closing of the nasal valve (nostrils) upon inspiration. One way to decide if this procedure will work for you is to purchase “nasal cones” and try them out. If this helps, then VIVAER may be a great option for you. Make an appointment with one of our Los Angeles Ear, Nose and Throat Doctors to see if VIVAER is right for you.

What Are The Benefits Of VIVAER

Full results take 4-6 weeks but most Los Angeles VIVAER patients note improved breathing on day 1. The first 1-2 weeks post procedure there is swelling of the nasal cavity which can lead to further obstruction, but this is usually improved within one week.

Recovery After VIVAER

Recovery for VIVAER is very easy. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes and is painless other than a small local injection. Patients are able to drive into the procedure themselves and drive home. There is mild congestion for the first week, but patients are able to work the following day if needed.

VIVAER - Other Information

VIVAER is covered by most insurance and takes roughly 15-20 minutes to perform.

VIVAER is a non-invasive, in-office treatment for patients suffering from nasal obstruction with difficulty breathing through the nose. This procedure reshapes the nasal valve area with low temperature radiofrequency energy. It is highly recommended in patients with obvious anatomical obstruction apprehensive about formal surgery in the operating room. This is done in-office and takes approximately 15 minutes or less. If you are interested in VIVAER Los Angeles patients can contact our Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctors to schedule a consultation.