Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment

Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment

What Is Nasal Valve Collapse?

Nasal valve collapse is a condition where the nasal valves—structures inside the nose that regulate airflow—become weak or narrow, leading to difficulty breathing. The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway, and it plays a crucial role in controlling the airflow into the nose. When these valves collapse or become obstructed, it can significantly impact a person’s ability to breathe through the nose and nasal valve collapse treatment may be necessary.

What Is External Nasal Valve Surgery?

External nasal valve surgery is a procedure designed to strengthen and support the external nasal valve, which is located at the entrance of the nostrils. This part of the nose is crucial for maintaining proper airflow and preventing the nostrils from collapsing during breathing. When the external nasal valve is weak or compromised, it can cause the nostrils to collapse inward, leading to nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing.

Schedule A Consultation With Dr. Mourad

Procedure Overview

• Purpose: The surgery aims to reinforce the structure of the nostrils and prevent them from collapsing, thereby improving airflow and breathing function.
• Cartilage Grafts: To support the external nasal valve, the surgeon typically uses cartilage grafts. These grafts can be harvested from various sources:
  • Septal Cartilage: If available, cartilage from the patient’s own septum (the wall between the nostrils) is often the preferred choice due to its availability and structural properties.
  • Ear Cartilage: Cartilage from the ear, known as auricular cartilage, is another option. It is flexible and easy to harvest, but may not be as strong as septal or rib cartilage.
  • Rib Cartilage: Rib cartilage is used when a larger or more rigid graft is needed. It is harvested from the patient’s rib and provides strong structural support.
  • Donor Cartilage: In some cases, cartilage can be sourced from an organ donor if the patient’s own cartilage is insufficient or unavailable.

Surgical Techniques

• Open Rhinoplasty: In this approach, an incision is made across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) to provide full access to the nasal structures. This allows for precise placement and shaping of the cartilage grafts.
• Closed Rhinoplasty: In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, avoiding external scars. This technique is used for less complex cases and provides a more limited view of the nasal structures.

Procedure Steps

1. Harvesting Cartilage: The surgeon harvests the required cartilage from the septum, ear, or rib, or uses donor cartilage.
2. Placement of Grafts: The cartilage grafts are then shaped and placed strategically in the nostril walls to reinforce the external nasal valve.
3. Reinforcement: The grafts are secured to the existing nasal structures to hold the external valves open, preventing collapse during inhalation.
4. Closure and Healing: The incisions are closed, and splints or sutures may be used to support the nose during the initial healing phase.

Benefits

• Improved Breathing: By reinforcing the nasal valves, this surgery significantly enhances airflow through the nostrils, reducing symptoms like nasal obstruction and congestion.
• Aesthetic Improvement: In addition to functional benefits, external nasal valve surgery can also improve the appearance of the nostrils, making them look more symmetrical and well-supported.

What Is Internal Nasal Valve Surgery?

Internal nasal valve surgery is a procedure aimed at widening and supporting the internal nasal valve, which is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and plays a critical role in regulating airflow. The internal nasal valve is formed by the junction of the septum and the upper lateral cartilages. When this area is too narrow or collapses, it can cause significant breathing difficulties.

Procedure Overview

• Purpose: The surgery is designed to increase the width of the internal nasal valve area, thereby reducing airflow resistance and improving breathing function.
• Cartilage Grafts: Just like in external valve surgery, cartilage grafts are used to support and hold the upper lateral cartilages away from the septum. These grafts are typically harvested from the septum, ear, or rib.

Surgical Techniques

• Spreader Grafts: These are thin, rectangular pieces of cartilage placed between the septum and the upper lateral cartilages. They work by pushing the upper lateral cartilages outward, widening the internal nasal valve angle and reducing airflow resistance.
• Butterfly Grafts: Butterfly grafts are used to strengthen the internal nasal valve and provide additional support. These grafts are typically placed on top of the upper lateral cartilages, reinforcing them and preventing collapse.

Procedure Steps

1. Harvesting Cartilage: The surgeon collects the necessary cartilage from the septum, ear, or rib.
2. Placement of Grafts: The grafts are shaped and placed between the septum and upper lateral cartilages, effectively widening the internal nasal valve and supporting the nasal structure.
3. Securing Grafts: The grafts are securely attached to the nasal structures to ensure stability and proper function.
4. Closure and Healing: The incisions are closed, and splints or internal supports may be used to maintain the grafts’ position during the healing process.

Benefits

• Enhanced Breathing: Even a small increase in the internal nasal valve area can lead to significant improvements in airflow and breathing comfort.
• Functional and Aesthetic Results: The procedure not only improves nasal function but can also contribute to a more harmonious nasal appearance by providing structural support.

In many cases, both internal and external nasal valve surgeries are performed together to address complex nasal valve collapse comprehensively. This combined approach can be especially beneficial for patients who have experienced trauma, previous unsuccessful nasal surgeries, or congenital nasal valve weakness.

By reinforcing both the internal and external valves, this dual approach maximizes the improvement in breathing function while also enhancing the structural integrity and appearance of the nose. It is essential to consult with an experienced facial plastic surgeon or ENT specialist to determine the most appropriate surgical plan based on your unique nasal anatomy and breathing concerns.

Schedule A Consultation With NYC’s #1 Plastic Surgeon

Preparation For A Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment

Before your nasal valve collapse treatment you will meet with Dr. Mourad where he usually spends an hour going over everything related to your surgery. He will evaluate and make sure that he can specifically tailor a custom care plan to your exact needs. During the consultation, Dr. Mourad will determine the exact nature of your complaints and the exact causes. He may prescribe medications that will assist in your complaints. Once a tailored plan is made, Dr. Mourad and his staff will take you through all the necessary information needed to make sure that your surgery happens without issue. We take care of the details so that you can have the most enjoyable experience.

Dr. Mourad views treating his patients to be nothing short of a privilege and an honor and enjoys taking the time to get to know his patients and fully understand their issues. Dr. Mourad’s office provides a boutique experience that takes you out of the mindset of being at the doctor’s office. It is a warm, comfortable environment, providing a bespoke experience.

Are There Additional Ways To Fix The Valves?

If your tip is dropping then surgery to lift the tip can open both the internal and external valves. Straightening the septum or narrowing the skin and cartilage between the nose can increase the area of airflow and improve nasal valve function as well. Dr. Mourad has successfully used a technique that removes the lower edge of the upper lateral cartilage with an increase in the angle of the internal valve that he has found very effective.

See Before and After Patient Photos

What If Both Of My External And Internal Valves Are Collapsed?

You can repair the external and the internal valves on one or both sides at the same time. In fact, you can also have septoplasty, sinus surgery, and rhinoplasty during the same surgery. Dr. Mourad is an expert surgeon at all of the above procedures and will work with you to plan the right procedure to get you breathing better.

After Surgery and Recovery

Undergoing nasal valve surgery can significantly improve both the function and appearance of your nose, but as with any surgical procedure, it is important to understand the potential risks and recovery process. Here is a detailed overview of the possible post-operative considerations and complications you should be aware of:

Anesthesia Reactions

• Types of Anesthesia: Depending on the complexity of the procedure, general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation may be used. While anesthesia is generally safe, some patients may experience mild reactions such as nausea, dizziness, or headaches after the surgery.
• Personal Risk Factors: Although severe reactions to anesthesia are exceedingly rare, it’s crucial to discuss your medical history, any allergies, and previous experiences with anesthesia with your anesthesiologist. They will assess your individual risk and adjust the anesthesia plan accordingly.

Infection

• Risk of Infection: Infections following nasal valve surgery are uncommon due to the sterile environment in which the procedure is performed and the use of prophylactic antibiotics. However, if an infection does occur, it can typically be managed effectively with additional antibiotics.
• Signs to Watch For: Be alert for symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the incision sites, as well as fever. If you experience any of these, contact your surgeon promptly.

Bleeding

• Bleeding Risks: Although rare, post-operative bleeding can occur, especially in the first few days after surgery. To minimize this risk, your surgeon will review your medical history, perform necessary blood tests, and advise you on medications or supplements to avoid before the procedure, such as aspirin or other blood thinners.
• Management: If bleeding occurs, it is usually managed with nasal packing, cauterization, or medication to control the bleeding. In most cases, bleeding episodes resolve without further intervention.

Need for Secondary and Revision Surgeries

• Why It May Be Necessary: Depending on the complexity of the initial surgery and the patient’s healing response, additional procedures may be needed to achieve optimal results. This could be due to residual nasal obstruction, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome.
• Planning for Revisions: It is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that revision surgeries, if needed, are often less extensive than the initial procedure but can be crucial for fine-tuning the results.

Scarring and Poor Wound Healing

• Factors Affecting Healing: Some patients, particularly those with underlying conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may be more prone to poor wound healing and excessive scarring. Lifestyle factors like smoking can also impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Preventive Measures: Your surgeon may recommend specific wound care protocols, such as the use of scar gels or silicone sheets, to minimize scarring. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to support optimal healing.

Local Reactions

• Possible Reactions: Occasionally, patients may experience local reactions to materials used during and after surgery, such as sutures, adhesives, nasal packing, or ointments. Symptoms can include itching, redness, or swelling at the application sites.
• Managing Reactions: If you have known sensitivities or allergies to certain materials, inform your surgeon before the procedure so alternative products can be used. Mild reactions can usually be managed with topical treatments or by removing the offending material.

Changes in Nasal Sensation

• Temporary Sensation Changes: Some patients may experience altered sensations in their nose, such as numbness, tingling, or mild pain. These changes are typically due to temporary nerve irritation during surgery.
• Duration and Management: In most cases, these symptoms resolve on their own within a few weeks to months. If sensations persist or worsen, follow up with your surgeon to rule out any complications.

Persistent or Recurrent Nasal Airway Obstruction

• Understanding the Risk: While the primary goal of nasal valve surgery is to improve breathing, there is a small risk that patients may develop persistent or recurrent nasal airway obstruction. This can occur due to factors like poor wound healing, scar tissue formation, or inadequate initial correction.
• Addressing Obstruction: If you experience ongoing breathing difficulties after surgery, further evaluation may be necessary. In some cases, revision surgery or other interventions may be required to optimize nasal airflow and function.

Tips For A Smooth Recovery

• Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon’s guidelines regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and medication is essential for a successful recovery.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from heavy lifting, bending, or intense physical activity for at least a few weeks after surgery, as these can increase the risk of bleeding and disrupt the healing process.
• Maintain Nasal Hygiene: Use saline sprays or rinses as recommended by your surgeon to keep the nasal passages clean and reduce the risk of infection.
• Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits allow your surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns promptly.

Does Insurance Pay For Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment?

Yes! Because it is considered a “functional surgery” that will improve your quality of life, most insurances will pay for some or all of the costs for surgery, anesthesia and the facility fees. Our office will check your insurance benefits and let you know what they are before your office visit so there are no surprises. We will take care of the paperwork and dealing with your insurance company and will let you know what’s going on. Of course, cosmetic surgery is rarely if ever paid by insurance. Dr. Mourad is board certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology and an expert nasal surgeon. If you are seeking a nasal valve collapse treatment, please feel free to call our office.

Schedule Your Consultation

Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment Nasal Valve Collapse Treatment