Wellness

[MamaWick]

I had this procedure today.  It took about 20 minutes in my ENT's office.  It reduces enlarged nasal turbinates, to help breathe easier through the nose, using radiofrequency ablation.  No pain at all...probably because I did Tylenol with codeine and 10 mg of Valium 2 hours before the procedure and repeated it 1 hour before the procedure.  Also my nostrils were topically numbed.

It will take about 2 weeks to heal, and then we'll see how well it works.  Medicare covers it, but commercial insurance does not...yet.  Usually it is the other way around.  I am enrolled in a study to show efficacy in hopes commercial insurances will cover.

Has anyone here had the VIVAER procedure? 

[tansy]

No, but I hope it's successful for you, @MamaWick.

[Bonkers1]

I have not had the procedure but all the best to you.  Please keep us informed on how it is working for you.

[Tori3569]

Thank you @MamaWick !  I have been waiting for something like this to come out to help with my severe nasal breathing issues.  I'm making an appointment to see if I'm a candidate tomorrow.  Best luck with your recovery 

[Desertdi]

Holy cow!    I could use something like that...but I'm "chicken"...

[MamaWick]

@Tori3569. Are you on Medicare?  

[Love orchids]

@MamaWick, you are just the person I need to hear about.  Is this Vivaer procedure new?  I was reading on line about nasal turbinate reduction, but not about this procedure.  I will have to search it by name.  Yes, please let us know about your recovery.  Did you leave the Dr. office with your nose packed?

I have had sinus problems my whole life and all they do is treat the symptoms.  Sinus rinse for the last 25 years along with sprays, antihistamines, decongestants.  Had really bad sinusitis Oct and Nov. with headaches daily.  After PCP gave me an antibiotic, I still had headaches, so she referred me for Ct scan and to the ENT who said I had sinusitis and no polyps or growrhs. I had restricted air flow through my right nostril so she gave me Budesonide to add to my sinus rinse 2x/day which has helped. She said I could use it indefinitely, however, I have developed a Rosecea like rash on my face, which ENT says she hasn't heard of as a side effect.  Good news is headaches have gone away, but they may have by themselves anyway.

Didn't want to make this all about me, but am interested to know if your history has been similar to mine.

Hope you have a comfortable and successful recovery and keep us posted.

[Still Raining]

Best wishes for recovery to you.  Noses can be tricky when they get riled up.

[Tori3569]

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@MamaWick wrote:

@Tori3569. Are you on Medicare?  

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No I have insurance from my job but I now see it won't be covered.  I'm going to look into it anyway.  I've been waiting for something like this for many years.  

[MamaWick]

@Tori3569. It is weird, but Medicare covers it and commercial insurance does not. Your private insurance should, however, pay for a more in-depth nasal turbinate reduction.