What is the Difference between RhinAer and VivAer?

Thomas Higgins • November 19, 2023

If you are looking for a treatment for nasal airway obstruction or rhinorrhea (runny nose), you may have heard about the VivAer and RhinAer procedures. Find out here which one is best for you.

Chronic nasal obstruction can significantly impact one's quality of life, from breathing difficulties to sleep disturbances. Thanks to advances in surgical technology, engineers and clinical researchers have developed minimally invasive procedures that can provide relief without the need for traditional surgery. Two such innovative procedures are the VivAer and RhinAer procedures. While they both aim to improve nasal airflow, they each target different underlying causes of nasal obstruction.


What is the VivAer Procedure?


The VivAer procedure is a minimally-invasive treatment designed to help patients who suffer from Nasal Airway Obstruction (NAO), which can be caused by a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or nasal valve collapse. During this procedure, a small wand is inserted into the nostrils to deliver controlled, low-temperature radiofrequency energy to the nasal tissues. This causes the tissues to shrink and stiffen, opening up the nasal airway and improving airflow without altering the nose's exterior appearance.


What is the RhinAer Procedure?


The RhinAer procedure, on the other hand, targets chronic rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflamed, runny nose. Similar to VivAer, RhinAer uses a wand-like device to apply low-temperature radiofrequency energy; however, the energy is applied to the posterior nasal nerves, which are responsible for generating rhinorrhea. This gentle treatment disrupts the nerve signals responsible for chronic rhinitis symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip.


Key Differences Between VivAer and RhinAer


While both procedures use radiofrequency energy, the main difference lies in their targeted conditions and treatment areas:


  • VivAer is focused on structural issues within the nasal airway that lead to obstruction.
  • RhinAer is aimed at alleviating symptoms of chronic rhinitis by modifying nerve function.


Both procedures are office-based, require only local anesthesia, and are performed in a short visit. Patients can expect minimal downtime and a quick return to normal activities.



If you're considering these options for improving your nasal breathing, it's essential to consult with a qualified physician who can diagnose your condition accurately and recommend the right treatment for you. Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH, MBA is an experienced physician who performs both the VivAer and RhinAer procedures. His practice is dedicated to providing advanced treatments for nasal obstruction and chronic rhinitis for patients in Louisville, KY, and Jeffersonville, IN. If you're looking for relief from your nasal symptoms and want to explore these innovative options, Dr. Higgins may be able to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life.

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