Getting Ready for VivAer

How is the procedure done?

• The goal is to open the nasal valve, the narrowest part of the airway just inside the front of the nose, by treating and reshaping the soft tissue there.
• It is usually done awake in our office under local anesthesia, or under sedation if you prefer.
• Several numbing injections are given on each side of the nose. This area is sensitive, so the injections do hurt, but once the nose is numb the procedure itself is not painful.
• A small wand then delivers controlled, low-temperature radiofrequency energy to the nasal valve on each side. The procedure takes about 15 minutes.

Our nasal valve page explains who VivAer 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.
• Temporary swelling of the nose.
• Congestion for 1 to 2 weeks from the swelling.
• Crusting and mild tenderness inside the nose, which can last a few weeks.
• Breathing may not improve enough. Some people need more treatment or another procedure.

How do I get ready?

• 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.

• 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.

• The day of the procedure

  • Arrive at our office 15 minutes before your procedure time, or 30 minutes before if you are having sedation.
  • Bring a bottle of Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray with you. You can buy it at any pharmacy or grocery store.
  • Bring your photo ID, insurance card and list of medicines.

What happens after the procedure?

• Most people go back to work and normal activities the same day, or the next day after sedation.
• Expect congestion and crusting for 1 to 2 weeks while the swelling settles. Most people reach the full benefit 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure.
• Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment just inside each nostril twice a day for 1 month, or until healed.
• Your follow-up visit is about 1 week after the procedure.

The VivAer Recovery Guide has everything you need after the procedure, including when to call us.

When should I call before surgery?