Nasal valve surgery is a surgery to correct a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve. The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal passage and is responsible for about half of the nasal airflow resistance. A collapsed or narrowed nasal valve can make it difficult to breathe, especially during exercise or when lying down.
Nasal valve surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision inside the nose and then use small instruments to correct the collapse or narrowing. This may involve grafting cartilage or bone to the nasal valve to support it. The incision will be closed with sutures or dissolved stitches.
Common practice/results of this service
Nasal valve surgery is a very effective surgery for correcting a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve. Most people who have nasal valve surgery experience significant improvement in their nasal breathing.
Nasal valve surgery may be recommended for people with a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve that is causing significant symptoms, such as:
Nasal valve collapse can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Nasal valve surgery is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as severe asthma, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.
Nasal valve surgery is commonly performed on adults of all ages, but it can also be performed on children.
Benefits of nasal valve surgery
The benefits of nasal valve surgery include:
How nasal valve surgery can help with treatment alongside lifestyle changes etc.
Nasal valve surgery can help with the treatment of a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve by correcting the collapse or narrowing and improving nasal breathing. This can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, and relieve nasal symptoms.
Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding cigarette smoke, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier, can also help to reduce nasal symptoms. However, these lifestyle changes may not be enough to resolve a collapsed or narrowed nasal valve in some people. Nasal valve surgery can be a valuable treatment option for people who have tried lifestyle changes but have not experienced relief from their symptoms.
Nasal valve surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision inside the nose and then use small instruments to correct the collapse or narrowing. This may involve grafting cartilage or bone to the nasal valve to support it. The incision will be closed with sutures or dissolved stitches.
The surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours. After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored. You will likely be able to go home the same day.
Pre-surgery – getting ready for surgery
Before nasal valve surgery, Mr Khatwa will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery. These instructions may include:
Post-surgery – what do do after surgery
After nasal valve surgery, you will need to follow Mr Khatwa's instructions for post-operative care. These instructions may include: