Do you often have trouble breathing through your nose—but nothing seems to help? You may have nasal obstruction. 
What is nasal obstruction?
A triangular area within your nasal passage called the “nasal valve” is formed by three structures:
- The septum: the narrow ridge of bone and tissue between the two nostrils
- The turbinates: fingerlike areas of tissue that warm, humidify and direct air as it enters your nasal cavity
- The lateral wall: the side tissue that forms the outer wall of your nose
Enlargement of any of these structures will decrease the overall area in the nasal valve and lead to nasal airway obstruction. This reduces the airflow through your nasal passages. As a result, you may feel congested or "stuffy.”
Common symptoms of nasal obstruction can include:
- Trouble breathing through your nose
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty breathing during physical exertion
Home remedies and medications may offer temporary relief. But it’s only when your nasal airway is opened that you can expect to find real, lasting relief. A new, in-office procedure—called VivAer®—may help to give you that lasting relief.
About VivAer
VivAer is a highly effective procedure that may offer you lasting relief from nasal obstruction. It’s performed right in our office, and patients typically return to normal activities on the same day.
With VivAer, your nasal valve area is gently and permanently reshaped using radiofrequency energy. VivAer procedure benefits include:
- Lasting relief: 97% of patients experienced significant improvement in nasal breathing.¹
- No incisions: Minimal discomfort and no incisions means the procedure can be performed in our office.
- Live better: VivAer is clinically shown to significantly improve quality of life and provide long-lasting relief.¹
Usually covered by insurance
VivAer is usually covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare. As always, though, it’s a good idea to confirm coverage with your insurance company first.
Are you a candidate?
To find out if you might be a candidate for VivAer, try this simple test—called the Cottle’s maneuver.
- Place two fingertips on your cheeks (two on each side of your nose).
- Gently press and pull outward to further open your nasal passage. While holding, breathe through your nose.
Did that help you breathe better? If so, you may be a candidate for the VivAer procedure.
Schedule an evaluation
These Iowa ENT Center physicians perform the VivAer procedure:
To schedule a VivAer evaluation, call us at 515-223-4368, or request an appointment online.
¹ Data on file. Aerin Medical TR680-01.