What is Nasal Valve Collapse?
Nasal Valve Collapse, also called nasal valve stenosis, is one of the most common sources of restricted nasal breathing. When the Nasal Valve, the narrowest part of the nose, weakens it can collapse inward. This can affect either one or both sides of the nose. It leads to significant nasal obstruction.
The LATERA® implant, a new technology from Stryker, may be able to help the nearly 20 million Americans who suffer from some form of nasal obstruction. The LATERA® nasal implant can provide additional structural support to the cartilage in your lateral nasal walls, helping them stay open as you breathe in.
What is LATERA®?
LATERA® is an FDA approved nasal implant that provides support to the collapsing lateral nasal cartilage. LATERA can help patients breathe better by reducing nasal obstructive symptoms.
How Does LATERA® Work?
LATERA is a simple procedure that our providers perform easily in the office setting. First, we apply the topical numbing medicine to ensure your comfort. Then, our providers insert the implant through a small, inter-nasal incision. After insertion, the implant isn’t visible and doesn’t affect the external structure of the nose. The entire procedure takes only 10 minutes.
LATERA Results
LATERA is a simple procedure that our providers perform in the office setting. Our patients have a very quick recovery in as little as 48 hours. There is minimal post-procedure discomfort.
Patients experienced a reduction in nasal obstruction symptoms of 57.7% at 2 years, as measured by the NOSE survey.
Patients achieved these results without negative cosmetic effects
See Changes with:
- Reduced nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Less trouble breathing through the nose
- Improved ability to get enough air through the nose during exercise or exertion
- Reduced nasal blockage or obstruction
- Less trouble sleeping
Is LATERA® Right For Me?
Every situation of nasal obstruction is unique. Before recommending treatment, our providers conduct a thorough consultation and examination of the nose. This examination, which includes the Cottle Maneuver test, confirms that the cause of obstructed breathing is in fact a collapsed nasal valve and not another condition such as a deviated septum.
Which treatment is right for you may depend on your age, the severity of nasal valve collapse, and your preferences for technique, recovery, and long-term benefits. Our comprehensive consultation and discussion of treatment options should leave you with no questions about which approach would be best for you!
