LATERA®
in San Francisco
Home | Functional & Breathing Solutions | LATERA®
Minimally Invasive Support for
Improved Nasal Breathing
LATERA is a minimally invasive nasal implant designed to improve airflow in patients experiencing nasal obstruction caused by nasal valve collapse. For individuals who struggle with chronic breathing difficulty but may not require full surgical correction, LATERA offers structural internal support with minimal downtime.
At Aesthetic Surgery Center: Michael R. Macdonald, M.D., LATERA nasal implant treatment in San Francisco is performed with careful evaluation of nasal anatomy and breathing function.
What Is LATERA?
LATERA is an absorbable nasal implant placed within the lateral nasal wall to provide internal structural support. It is designed to reduce nasal valve collapse — a common but often underdiagnosed cause of chronic nasal obstruction.
Unlike septoplasty, which corrects septal deviation, LATERA targets weakness in the nasal sidewalls that can collapse during inhalation.
The implant gradually absorbs over time while supporting long-term structural improvement.
What LATERA Improves
LATERA treatment in San Francisco may improve:
- Chronic nasal obstruction
- Nasal valve collapse
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Congestion not caused by allergies
- Reduced airflow during exercise
By reinforcing the lateral nasal wall, LATERA helps maintain open airways during inhalation.
Why Choose Dr. Michael R. Macdonald for LATERA Treatment
Proper diagnosis is critical. Nasal obstruction may be caused by septal deviation, turbinate enlargement, or valve collapse — each requiring a different treatment approach.
As a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in San Francisco, Dr. Macdonald performs a comprehensive nasal evaluation to determine whether LATERA, septoplasty, turbinate reduction, or a combination approach is appropriate.
This individualized assessment ensures patients receive the correct structural solution rather than a generalized treatment.
Is LATERA Right for You?
You may be a candidate for LATERA nasal obstruction treatment if you:
- Experience difficulty breathing through your nose
- Notice collapse of the nostrils during inhalation
- Have persistent obstruction despite medical therapy
- Prefer a minimally invasive option
- Are not ready for more extensive nasal surgery
A consultation determines whether liposuction alone or combined with procedures such as facelift or chin augmentation would best achieve your goals.
The LATERA Procedure
During Procedure
LATERA placement is typically performed in-office under local anesthesia.
The procedure involves:
- Precise placement of the absorbable implant
- Minimal incision and tissue disruption
- Structural reinforcement of the nasal sidewall
The treatment is generally brief and does not require extensive downtime.
Recovery After LATERA
Most patients experience:
- Mild swelling or tenderness
- Return to normal activity shortly after treatment
- Gradual improvement in airflow
Healing progresses steadily, and breathing improvement may be noticeable early in recovery.
How Long Do Results Last?
The LATERA implant is absorbable and provides structural support during healing. Clinical studies demonstrate sustained improvement in nasal airflow even after the implant has been absorbed.
LATERA vs. Septoplasty vs. Turbinate Reduction
- Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum.
- Turbinate reduction reduces internal tissue bulk.
- LATERA reinforces the nasal sidewall to prevent collapse.
In some patients, combining treatments produces optimal functional improvement.
Safety and Surgical Judgment
Successful nasal obstruction treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. Treating the wrong structural component can fail to relieve symptoms.
Choosing an experienced San Francisco nasal obstruction specialist ensures a precise, anatomy-driven approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About LATERA in San Francisco
Below are answers to common questions about LATERA nasal implant treatment for nasal obstruction.
What is LATERA?
LATERA is an absorbable nasal implant designed to support the lateral nasal wall and improve airflow in patients with nasal valve collapse.
What does LATERA treat?
LATERA treats nasal obstruction caused by collapse of the nasal sidewall during inhalation.
Who is a good candidate for LATERA?
Good candidates have confirmed nasal valve collapse and experience chronic nasal obstruction that does not improve with medical therapy.
How long is recovery after LATERA?
Most patients return to normal activity shortly after treatment. Mild swelling or tenderness may occur temporarily.
How long do LATERA results last?
Although the implant is absorbable, structural support during healing often leads to sustained breathing improvement.
Can LATERA be combined with other nasal procedures?
Yes. LATERA may be combined with septoplasty or turbinate reduction when multiple structural issues contribute to nasal obstruction.
Is the LATERA procedure painful?
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and most patients describe discomfort as mild and temporary.
Improve Nasal Breathing With Structural Support
If chronic nasal obstruction has been affecting your daily comfort, a consultation can determine whether LATERA or another functional treatment is right for you.
Let us help you achieve your aesthetic goals with confidence and ease.