Before-surgery guide
Getting Ready for LATERA Implants
Quick answer: LATERA implants are absorbable implants that support the side walls of the nose, with the goal of keeping the nostrils from collapsing when you breathe in. They are placed through a small cut inside the nostril, with no scars on the outside. It is done under local anesthesia or sedation, or under general anesthesia when combined with another surgery. Most people go back to normal activity right away; tape stays on the nose for 1 week.
How is the procedure done?
- The goal is to support the side wall of the nose, so the nostrils do not collapse inward when you breathe in, without changing how your nose looks.
- A small implant is placed under the skin of the side wall of the nose through a small cut inside the nostril. There are no scars on the outside.
- The implant is absorbed over time and keeps supporting the nose while it heals.
- It can be done under local anesthesia or sedation, or under general anesthesia when it is combined with another surgery, such as septoplasty.
Our nasal valve page explains who LATERA helps.
What are the risks?
Every procedure has risks. We will go over them with you, and you can ask about any of them.
- Pain, bleeding and infection are risks of any procedure.
- The implant may show. Rarely, part of it can be seen near the top of the nose. This usually goes away over time.
- The implant may move or come out, or cause a skin reaction, and may need to be removed.
- Breathing may not improve enough. Some people need another procedure or a revision.
How do I get ready?
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Before the procedure
- Give us a list of every medicine, vitamin and supplement you take.
- If you take aspirin or a blood thinner, tell us. Do not stop it on your own; we will tell you whether you need to.
- If LATERA is done together with another surgery under general anesthesia, follow the getting-ready guide for that surgery.
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Eating and drinking
- You can eat and drink as usual on the day of the procedure, unless you are having sedation.
- If you are having sedation: follow the eating and drinking instructions we give you exactly, and arrange for an adult to drive you home.
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The day of the procedure
- Bring your photo ID, insurance card and list of medicines.
What should I have at home?
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), unless we told you not to take ibuprofen
What happens after the procedure?
- Most people go back to normal activity right after the procedure.
- Tape on the nose stays in place for 1 week.
- Do not press on, rub or move your nose for 1 month.
- Pain is usually mild and controlled with over-the-counter pain medicine.
When should I call before surgery?
Call us for
- You get sick in the days before the procedure
- You start a new medicine, or a doctor changes your blood thinner
- You have questions about the procedure or its risks, or you need to reschedule
Austin 512-339-4040 · Lakeway 512-682-4798 · Marble Falls 830-992-2830
Questions patients ask
The goal is to support the side walls of the nose without changing how it looks. The implant goes in through a small cut inside the nostril, so there are no scars on the outside.
1 week. Avoid pressing on, rubbing or moving your nose for 1 month.
It can be done under local anesthesia or sedation, or under general anesthesia when it is combined with another surgery, such as septoplasty.
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not replace an in-person evaluation. If your surgeon gave you different instructions, follow theirs.