The external nose (the part you can see easily on the outside) can also play an important role in nasal
obstruction and ear, nose, and throat health. The nostrils and area directly above them form what is called the nasal valve (see illustration below). This area is somewhat prone to collapse, but can be particularly narrowedor easily collapsible due to a number of reasons, including congenital causes (from birth) or previous trauma/surgery. Rhinoplasty and nasal valve surgery, including nasal valve repair, are commonly used to treat nasal obstruction that originates at the external nose.
Nose Surgery – Rhinoplasty and Nasal Valve Surgery
Rhinoplasty procedures are highly individualized, so your doctor should discuss the nature of the procedure, as well as the risks and postoperative instructions.
Nasal valve surgery is often performed in conjunction with septoplasty. The procedure typically involves the use of the cartilage that was removed during septoplasty. If septoplasty is not being done, a small amount of ear cartilage may be used, obtained by making a small incision behind the ear. A pocket is created on each sidewall of the nose through an incision made inside the nose. On each affected side, a piece of cartilage is placed into the pocket to support an area of narrowing or collapse. The incisions are then closed with absorbable stitches. In addition to the potential for bruising and a minor risk of infection, the major risk associated with the procedure is a slightly wider appearance to the mid-portion of the nose. Although the general appearance of the nose is primarily related to the nasal tip and the shadows at the tip (not affected by this procedure), there will be a minor change in appearance. Because the cartilage graft is typically less than an eighth of an inch thick, this change in appearance may or may not be noticed by others. For mild to moderate nasal valve collapse, minimally invasive techniques are available.
If you would like an appointment with one of our physicians at Fort Worth ENT & Sinus please complete an online appointment request or phone 817-332-8848.
FAQs
- What is nasal valve repair?Nasal valve repair is a surgical procedure aimed at improving airflow through the nasal passages by correcting structural issues in the nasal valve, which is the narrowest part of the nasal airway.
- How is nasal valve reconstruction performed?Nasal valve reconstruction typically involves reshaping or reinforcing the nasal cartilage and tissues to restore proper function and airflow. Techniques may include grafts from cartilage or other materials.
- Who is a candidate for nasal valve repair surgery?Candidates for nasal valve repair surgery include individuals experiencing chronic nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, or symptoms caused by nasal valve collapse that do not improve with non-surgical treatments.
- What is the recovery time for nasal valve collapse surgery?Recovery from nasal valve collapse surgery typically takes 1-2 weeks for initial healing, with full recovery and optimal results noticeable within a few months. Follow-up care is important for monitoring progress.
- What are the benefits of nasal valve repair surgery?Nasal valve repair surgery can significantly improve breathing, reduce snoring, enhance sleep quality, and alleviate symptoms associated with nasal congestion or obstruction.