Nasal obstruction is a leading cause of breathing problems and discomfort. In some cases, breathing problems are mild; however, in other cases, partial breath way obstruction can lead to severe medical episodes such as anxiety and panic attacks, loss of consciousness, and cardiac issues. 

Traditionally, treatments for nasal valve obstruction have been lengthy. Invasive surgeries involving the use of implants to open and prop the airways or surgical incisions made to remove the tissue causing the blockage were the standard.  

With constant technological advances in the field, otolaryngologists now have less invasive yet highly effective procedures that can modify the nasal valve and treat nasal obstruction, without the need for extensive surgery. 

Radiofrequency treatment for nasal valve modifications is one such cutting-edge technology. 

The Nasal Valve

The majority of air entering our body comes through the nose, where air is filtered, warmed, and humidified before entering our lungs. 

The narrowest, thus limiting, anatomical part of the nasal airway is the nasal valve, composed of mucus membrane and cartilage. Any alteration or tissue displacement in this nasal valve tissue can cause symptoms of nasal obstruction or congestion. 

In the past, when tissue in the nasal valve grew or expanded, it was treated by surgically removing the skin or inserting an implant to prop open the valve. Radiofrequency treatments free up the passageway without the need for either of these invasive solutions. 

Radiofrequency Treatment

In many cases of nasal valve obstruction, cells and tissue in the nasal valve grow and expand, limiting airflow. 

With new radiofrequency technology, products such as the Vivaer device, low-temperature, non-destructive energy is focused on the tissues and membranes of the nasal valve. This energy induces shrinkage to reduce the presence of these structures and increase airflow space.

Surgeons use the Vivaer device, which looks like a slim wand, in conjunction with a micro camera to place inside the patient’s nose. They then apply the radiofrequency energy to obstructions in the nasal valve. 

The treatment is rapid, performed in our clinic (with no need for trips to the hospital or recovery), and results are felt immediately. Without the need for surgery or any foreign bodies implanted, a radiofrequency treatment can effectively and elegantly solve nasal valve obstruction. 

Benefits and Limitations of Radiofrequency Treatment

Radiofrequency treatment modifies the nasal valve’s internal structure to provide relief from nasal valve collapse and obstruction, without the need for structural surgery.

In some cases, however, airway obstruction is caused by more than minor blockages in the nasal valve and will require functional rhinoplasty surgery. Radiofrequency treatment will also not change the nose’s aesthetic appearance, such as with a cosmetic rhinoplasty.  

Radiofrequency Treatment in Chicago, Illinois 

Dr. Jay M. Dutton of the Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago is one of the leading ear nose and throat surgeons in the United States, offering the latest, safest, and most effective treatments. With double board certification in Otolaryngology – Face and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic Surgery, he provides his patients unparalleled expertise and satisfaction. 

Arrange your consultation today by calling 630 574 8222 or by filling out his online contact form.

The post Radiofrequency for Nasal Valve appeared first on Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago.

Health eNews recently featured the details of Dr. Dutton’s trip on their website, which is the Midwest’s daily source for the latest health news and related information. Read on to learn more about Dr. Dutton’s medical trip to Peralta.

Giving Back in Peralta

As the article in Health eNews mentions, Dr. Dutton joined other medical professionals with the non-profit organization, Community Empowerment Global Health Partnerships, for a medical mission trip to the mountainous village of Peralta in the Dominican Republic. While in Peralta, Dr. Dutton repaired birth defects and performed facial reconstructive surgery on local residents lacking care. The patients presented with a wide range of medical cases, and Dr. Dutton operated on 30 patients total, with each procedure lasting several hours.

The article points out that the village does have a general surgeon, but the majority of major medical care occurs with the help of Dr. Dutton and other physicians who volunteer to help out in Peralta, which has limited access to surgical care.

The article also highlighted the fact that this recent trip marks nine years that Dr. Dutton has been traveling to Peralta for medical missions. In fact, Dr. Dutton was reunited with a former patient whom he operated on more than eight years ago. At the time, the patient was just a child, and Dr. Dutton had performed a cleft palate repair. After hearing about Dr. Dutton’s return to Peralta, the article states that the patient drove two hours to personally thank Dr. Dutton for the surgery he performed years ago.

Experiences like these are what motivate Dr. Dutton to remain committed to the advancement of facial plastic surgery. Whether performing plastic surgery for cosmetic or functional purposes locally and abroad, Dr. Dutton is inspired by the way a surgery can be life changing for patients.

If you’ve been considering facial plastic surgery in the Chicago area, contact the Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago today to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Dutton.

The post Dr. Jay Dutton Was Featured in Health eNews for His Medical Mission to the Dominican Republic appeared first on Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago.

1. Prepare meals at home as much as possible.
2. Limit the amount of time you spend in the sun.
3. Dedicate 30 minutes to physical activity daily.
4. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time.
5. Surround yourself with positive people.

The post 5 Healthy Habits to Adopt in the New Year appeared first on Rhinoplasty Institute of Chicago.