Do You Need Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment?

Woman with clothespin on nose

Did you know that breathing through your nose delivers about 70%of all airflow to your lungs? With this in mind, it only makes sense that when the nasal passages are blocked, you’ll have a hard time getting enough air. Nasal valve collapse is a common condition that makes it much more difficult to breathe through the nose. In fact, more than 20 million Americans deal with the side effects of a nasal airway obstruction. If you’re dealing with symptoms of nasal valve collapse, don’t hesitate to reach out to Indianapolis Sinus Center. Our Greenwood, IN team is here to help you breathe a little easier.

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What Is Nasal Valve Collapse?

A nasal valve collapse is a condition that involves weakness or narrowing of the nasal valve. It can lead to obstructed breaking or blocked nasal airways. Since the nasal valve is already the narrowest part of the airway, it’s very easy for something to restrict airflow and make breathing difficult.

Causes of Nasal Valve Collapse

Nasal valve collapse most commonly occurs because of trauma to the nose, especially due to rhinoplasty. During plastic surgery on the nose, the cartilage may weaken and begin to collapse. Other trauma to the area might lead to a deviated septum, which is often associated with nasal valve collapse. However, injury is not the only reason this condition occurs. Individuals with the following inherited characteristics may be at increased risk:

Nasal Valve Collapse illustration
  • Narrow nostrils
  • Congenital conditions
  • Wide columella
  • Over-projecting nose

Nasal Valve Collapse Symptoms

There are quite a few symptoms to look for if you suspect nasal valve collapse pain. If you notice any of these symptoms soon after trauma to the nose, make an appointment with Indianapolis Sinus Center for an evaluation:‍

  • Snoring
  • Nasal congestion or stuffiness
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Difficulty breathing through your nose
  • In ability to get enough air through your nose while exercising or exerting yourself
  • Nasal bleeding
  • Obstructions in the nasal passage
  • Crusting around the nostrils
  • Feeling like you have a clothespin on your nose

How to Treat Nasal Valve Collapse

Nasal valve collapse surgery is usually necessary to address this condition. ENT professionals use a variety of surgical techniques to correct collapsed valves, and the approach your doctor uses will depend on their preferences. Generally speaking, patients who need surgery can expect a cartilage graft, in which a piece of cartilage from another part of the body is used to reattach the collapsed area to the septum.

How Does LATERA® Work?

Surgery isn’t right for everyone, and most people want to avoid invasive treatment whenever possible. At Indianapolis Sinus Center, we offer LATERA®, a less invasive alternative to traditional surgeries. The LATERA® Absorbable Nasal Implant is placed in the nasal wall and serves to reinforce and support the lateral cartilage in the nose. Then, a fibrous capsule forms around the implant. Over a period of 18 months, the implant will absorb, and the capsule provides stability for the surrounding tissue. Thanks to this increased stability, patients often find relief from their nasal valve collapse symptoms.

Reap the Benefits of LATERA®

Young happy woman sitting in park

Indianapolis Sinus Center is proud to offer our patients all the benefits of LATERA®. Over the years, we’ve worked with numerous patients and seen the long-lasting advantages of this minimally-invasive treatment. Some highlights of LATERA® include:‍

  • Fewer Symptoms: The procedure results in far fewer symptoms. Many patients report less nasal congestion, better sleep, and an easier time getting enough air.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Nine out of ten LATERA® patients say they’re much more satisfiedwith their breathing after the procedure.
  • No Change in Appearance: Many nasal valve collapse patients are worried about changes to their nose and facial appearance. However, patients do not experience long-term cosmetic changes as a result of the implant. In fact, nine out of ten LATERA® patients said they were satisfied with their appearance following the procedure.

Let LATERA® relieve you of the symptoms of nasal valve collapse.

LATERA® provides predictable outcomes and proven results for improving your ability to breathe through your nose. Don’t let your quality of life suffer because of nasal airway obstruction

Reference: This page was created from information at www.spiroxmed.com

Get in Touch With Us Today

Whether you need a nasal valve collapse diagnostic test or you’re ready for LATERA® treatment, Indianapolis Sinus Center is here for you. Simply schedule an appointment with our friendly administrative staff, and one of our providers will be glad to meet with you and discuss your treatment options. Contact us today to learn more about LATERA® and other solutions.

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