Latera Absorbable Nasal Implant for Nasal Obstruction

More than 20% of Americans suffer from nasal airway obstruction, a condition that limits the air flowing into the nose. This can be caused by a structural abnormality of the nose or from inflammation and swelling of the nose. People with nasal obstruction often experience:

• Nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Trouble sleeping or obtaining quality sleep

Type of nasal airflow obstruction:

• Septum - the cartilage wall between the nostrils bends and blocks the nasal passage
• Turbinates – ridges of bone and tissue inside the nose enlarge and limit air flow
• Lateral – weak or excessively flexible cartilage in the outer nasal wall may cause it to collapse inward while inhaling

Latera is a small, absorbable implant placed in the side wall of your nose. It is inserted through a small access point inside your nostril and will help your breathing improve.

It is not removed but is absorbed approximately 18 months after the procedure. It causes no permanent change to your appearance. After recovery, most patients are not even aware that the implant is there.

The procedure is performed in the office.

After the procedure, your nose will usually be sore for about a week. Swelling usually resolves in one to two weeks. You should generally notice improvement in nasal breathing on the first day after the procedure.