What Is the VivAer® Procedure?
The VivAer procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to improve nasal breathing. It helps people who feel that their nose is constantly “blocked” or congested, especially when the problem is due to weakness or collapse of the nasal valve—the narrowest part of the nasal airway.
Unlike traditional surgery, VivAer does not require cutting, stitches, or removal of tissue. Instead, it uses gentle heat energy to reshape and support the nasal passages so air can flow more easily.
Why Do People Need This Procedure?
VivAer may be recommended if you have:
- Chronic nasal congestion or obstruction
- Difficulty breathing through your nose, especially during exercise or sleep
- A feeling of nasal collapse when you breathe in
- Symptoms that do not improve with medications (such as nasal sprays or allergy treatments)
This condition is often caused by nasal valve collapse, which can occur naturally with aging, prior nasal surgery, injury, or simply your anatomy.
How Does VivAer Work?
VivAer uses controlled radiofrequency (RF) energy to gently heat the tissues inside the nose. This process:
- Reshapes the nasal valve area
- Stiffens and supports weak tissue
- Improves airflow without removing tissue
Over time, the treated tissue remodels and becomes more stable, helping keep the airway open during breathing.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
In the Office (Awake Procedure)
The VivAer procedure is most commonly performed in the office and typically takes about 15–30 minutes.
Step-by-step overview:
- Numbing the nose
A topical anesthetic (numbing medication) is placed inside the nose. In some cases, a small amount of local anesthetic may be injected to ensure comfort. - Positioning the device
A small, specially designed device is gently placed inside the nose at the area of narrowing (nasal valve). - Applying controlled energy
The device delivers low-temperature radiofrequency energy for short periods (usually several seconds per treatment spot).
You may feel slight pressure or warmth, but discomfort is usually minimal. - Reshaping the airway
The physician may gently adjust the tissue during treatment to improve the shape and openness of the nasal passage. - Completion
Several areas may be treated on each side of the nose. No packing or stitches are typically required.
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and recover quickly.
Common short-term effects:
- Mild swelling or congestion
- Temporary tenderness inside the nose
- Slight crusting or dryness
These symptoms usually improve within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Recovery and Activity
- Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day
- Avoid aggressive nose blowing for a few days
- Saline sprays or rinses may be recommended to keep the nose moist
- Follow your doctor’s specific post-procedure instructions
When Will I Notice Improvement?
Some patients notice improvement in breathing within a few weeks, but the full benefit typically develops over 4–8 weeks as the tissue heals and remodels.
Benefits of VivAer
- No incisions or cutting
- Performed in the office
- Minimal downtime
- Long-lasting improvement in nasal breathing
- Can reduce dependence on medications
Are There Any Risks?
VivAer is considered very safe, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Temporary swelling or discomfort
- Minor bleeding
- Crusting or dryness
- Rarely, persistent symptoms or need for additional treatment
Your doctor will review your individual risks and determine if you are a good candidate.
Is VivAer Right for Me?
VivAer is best suited for patients whose nasal obstruction is caused by nasal valve collapse. A simple in-office exam—often including a maneuver where the cheek is gently lifted to improve airflow—can help determine if this treatment will be effective for you.
Summary
The VivAer procedure is a quick, minimally invasive treatment that improves nasal breathing by strengthening and reshaping the nasal airway. It is performed comfortably in the office, requires little downtime, and provides lasting relief for many patients.
Post-Procedure Instructions
Nasal Care
- Use saline nasal spray 3–4 times daily for the first 5 days to keep the inside of your nose moist
- You may also use a saline rinse (Neti pot or squeeze bottle) once or twice daily
- Apply a small amount of bacitracin ointment (or other OTC antibiotic ointment) twice daily for 7 days to the inside of each nostril
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid forceful nose blowing for at least 3–5 days
- Try not to pinch or manipulate your nose during healing
- Avoid heavy straining or intense exercise for 24–48 hours
Medications
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) are usually sufficient
- Continue any prescribed nasal medications unless instructed otherwise
What Is Normal
- Mild congestion or a “stuffy” feeling
- Light nasal drainage or minor spotting of blood
- Crusting inside the nose
- Gradual improvement in breathing over several weeks
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent or heavy bleeding
- Severe or worsening pain
- Fever (typically over 102°F) that is not responsive to medication
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, swelling, or drainage)
- No improvement in symptoms after several weeks
Emergency Room Guidelines
- If you need to go to the Emergency Room, please use the following guidelines
- Patients 16 and older: Centennial Medical Center Frisco
- Patients under 16: Children’s Medical Center Plano
