Less invasive technique for nasal obstruction
A new technique is now employed to address nasal obstruction without changing the appearance of the nose. This technique is called Z-plasty and it is minimally invasive that can be used to treat internal nasal valve collapse. Unlike traditional rhinoplasty, Z-plasty relieves nasal obstruction with less recovery time, according to a research done by Rush University Medical Center.
Internal nasal valve collapse is one of the most common causes of nasal obstruction. Normally, this is addressed through an open nasal surgery or rhinoplasty. However, for those who are wary that the appearance of the nose might be altered, this traditional approach may not be the best.
Z-plasty is a less invasive procedure used by surgeons for scar revision surgery. It is performed entirely from inside of the nose under local anesthesia with sedation.
“The Z-plasty is conceptually a novel technique to repair nasal valve collapse when compared with existing techniques,” said Dr. Jay M. Dutton, an otolaryngologist at Rush.
Open rhinoplasty requires patients to endure extended healing time, extensive tissue dissection, grafting and use of foreign bodies for valve suppression. These can all lead to major complications and alter the appearance of the nose. On the other hand, Z-plasty is relatively quick, painless, less invasive, and is effective in addressing nasal valve obstruction as what Dr. Dutton emphasized.

