VivAer® Procedure

The Vivaer Nasal Airway Remodeling is a non-invasive procedure designed to improve airflow in your nasal passages. It's performed in the office under local anesthesia and requires no incisions or removal of tissue.

Here are the key aspects of the procedure:

• It uses low-temperature radiofrequency energy to reshape the internal nasal valve area, which is responsible for two-thirds of the air resistance in the nasal airway.
• This treatment can provide a lasting solution to nasal obstruction, a condition that can cause snoring and difficulty breathing.
• The procedure typically takes about 15 minutes and patients can go home immediately afterward.
• Recovery is usually quick, with minimal discomfort, and patients can return to normal activities on the same day.

It's important to note that this procedure may not be suitable for everyone. It is always recommended to discuss with a healthcare provider to explore the best options for individual health needs.

For VivAer Nasal Airway Remodeling, the appropriate CPT code to use as of January 1, 2023, is 30469 - this represents the repair of nasal valve collapse with low energy, temperature-controlled (i.e., radiofrequency) subcutaneous/submucosal remodeling.

The insurance coverage of VivAer or any other medical procedures largely depends on your specific insurance plan. Insurance companies have different policies and it's important to check with your provider directly to understand what is covered under your plan. Here are some steps you can take:

Contact your insurance company: The best way to know for sure is by contacting your insurance company directly. They will be able to provide the most accurate information based on the specifics of your plan.

Ask your doctor: Your healthcare provider may also be able to provide information about insurance coverage for this procedure. They may have experience with other patients who have had the same procedure and their associated insurance claims.

Read your policy: If you have a copy of your policy, it should outline what types of procedures are covered. If VivAer is not explicitly mentioned, it could still be covered under a more general category.

Even if the procedure is covered, you may still be responsible for a portion of the cost, such as a deductible or co-pay. So, it's important to get as much information as possible from your insurance provider beforehand.

Coverage for the Vivaer procedure can vary depending on your specific insurance plan with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. Some plans may cover the procedure, while others may not. It's important to contact Anthem directly, or check your policy details online, to confirm whether this procedure is covered. Our office may also be able to assist you in this process, as they often have experience working with various insurance providers. Remember, it's always best to get confirmation of coverage before scheduling any procedure to avoid unexpected costs.

The cost of a VivAer procedure can vary widely based on several factors including your geographic location, the specific fees of your ENT specialist, and whether or not it's covered by your insurance. On average, you might expect the costs to be in the range of $2,500 to $3,500. It's important to note that this is a general estimate and actual costs may be higher or lower. Our office can provide a more accurate estimate based on your unique circumstances. Always ask your insurance provider as well to understand what portion of the costs will be covered by your plan.

No, VivAer is not a nose resection. VivAer is a non-invasive procedure used to treat nasal airway obstruction. It uses radiofrequency energy to reshape the internal nasal valve area, which can improve airflow. Unlike a nose resection, it does not involve removing any part of the nose. It is performed in-office and doesn't require any incisions or removal of tissue, making recovery time typically faster and less discomforting compared to traditional surgery. Always discuss with your ENT specialist to understand the best treatment option for your specific condition.

VivAer is a long-lasting procedure designed to improve airflow in your nasal passages. The procedure uses radiofrequency energy to reshape the internal nasal valve for better airflow. However, as with any medical procedure, individual results can vary and depend on various factors. It's always best to have a detailed conversation with your ENT specialist about what you can expect from the VivAer procedure.

The term "VivAer" doesn't have a specific meaning in a dictionary sense. It is actually a brand name for a specific medical procedure used to treat nasal airway obstruction. The Vivaer Nasal Airway Remodeling device uses controlled, low-temperature radiofrequency energy to reshape the nasal valve area and improve airflow. The name "VivAer" is likely derived from a combination of the Latin words "vivere" which means "to live" and "aer" meaning "air," symbolizing the improved quality of life the procedure aims to provide for those suffering from nasal obstructions.

To find a doctor who performs VivAer nasal airway remodeling in Kentucky or Indiana, you can:

• Use online healthcare provider directories, which often allow you to filter by specialty and location.
• Contact local ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) clinics to inquire if they offer this procedure.
• Reach out to your primary care physician or insurance provider for recommendations.

One provider in the area who performs these procedures is Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH, MBA. He practices in both Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana. Reach out to us and make an appointment for an evaluation of your nasal congestion. We are happy to explain the procedure and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

The effects of VivAer are designed to be long-lasting. However, the permanency can vary from patient to patient based on individual healing processes and the presence of any underlying conditions that may affect the nasal structures over time. You should discuss expectations and potential outcomes with your ENT specialist.