Accessibility Accessibility icon
(346) 321-4429 Book Now

Advanced ENT Treatments & Functional Surgery

Houston, TX

Black and white portrait of a woman.

Advanced ENT Care Focused on Breathing, Function, and Long-Term Relief

Chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, and recurring sinus infections can significantly affect daily life, sleep quality, and overall health.

When symptoms persist despite medication or allergy treatment, the underlying cause is often structural, not inflammatory.

At Heights Plastic Surgery, our Advanced ENT Treatments focus on identifying and correcting the anatomical causes of nasal, sinus, and airway dysfunction. Care is led by Dr. Megan Swonke, a fellowship-trained Otolaryngologist with advanced training in facial plastic surgery.

This dual expertise allows for precise diagnosis and surgical correction while preserving the natural structure and appearance of the nose.

Our approach is direct, individualized, and centered on long-term functional improvement.

Abstract gray landscape with smooth textures.

Procedure Overview

Before proceeding, I'll need a bit more context. Please specify the topic or focus area for the content you would like, whether it's for a specific procedure, client, or type of practice. Additionally, if there are any specific branding guidelines or tone preferences from our previous discussions that should be incorporated, let me know. This will help ensure the content is consistent with your expectations and objectives.

ENT Treatments also known as: /ˌiː.enˈtiː/

Procedure options: Nasal & Sinus Disorders, Functional & Structural Nasal Surgery, Skin Cancer Diagnosis & Reconstruction, Facial Reconstruction & Scar Revision

Addresses Chronic nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing through the nose, Persistent or recurrent sinus infections, Deviated septum, Inferior turbinate hypertrophy, Nasal valve collapse, Structural contributors to snoring and sleep-disordered breathing, Functional nasal concerns following trauma or prior surgery, Skin cancers and lesions of the head and neck requiring reconstruction

Procedure Time Septoplasty / Turbinate Reduction: 60–90 minutes, Functional Rhinoplasty / Nasal Valve Repair: 2–4 hours, Sinus surgery: 1–3 hours, depending on extent, Skin cancer excision & reconstruction: Varies by case

Eligibility

Patients with confirmed structural nasal or sinus obstruction, Individuals with symptoms not responding to medical management, Patients seeking functional improvement with or without cosmetic refinement, Candidates should be in overall good health and able to undergo anesthesia

Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking prior to surgery

Possible Side Effects Temporary nasal congestion, Swelling or bruising, Mild discomfort or pressure, Temporary changes in sensation

What are Advanced ENT Treatments?

Advanced ENT treatments are specialized medical and surgical procedures designed to correct structural abnormalities of the nose, sinuses, and upper airway that interfere with normal breathing and sinus drainage.

Unlike general ENT care that focuses primarily on symptom management, advanced ENT treatment addresses the physical cause of obstruction. These procedures correct issues such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, nasal valve collapse, or compromised sinus pathways.

Treatment plans are customized to each patient’s anatomy and symptoms, with a focus on restoring function while maintaining balanced nasal form.

Woman receiving treatment with hands adjusting device.

Try the Virtual Consultation Tool

During a consultation, you will be able to visualize your results using our interactive virtual consultation tool. Explore the options and potential results for your Mommy Makeover.

virtual consultation tool on a laptop

Conditions & Procedures We Treat

Nasal & Sinus Disorders

For patients experiencing chronic nasal or sinus issues, we now offer advanced evaluation and treatment options, including:

  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Nasal obstruction and breathing difficulties
  • Deviated septum
  • Turbinate hypertrophy
  • Recurrent sinus infections

When appropriate, functional nasal and sinus procedures can be performed to improve airflow, reduce symptoms, and restore normal nasal function—often in conjunction with aesthetic considerations.

Additionally, a tummy tuck can alter the position of the belly button on the mid-section.

Functional & Structural Nasal Surgery

Because nasal form and function are inseparable, our approach to nasal surgery prioritizes both:

  • Functional rhinoplasty
  • Septoplasty
  • Nasal valve repair

These procedures are designed to improve breathing while maintaining or enhancing facial harmony.

Skin Cancer Diagnosis & Reconstruction

The face and neck are common sites for skin cancer, and treatment requires both oncologic precision and aesthetic sensitivity. We offer:

  • Evaluation and surgical treatment of facial skin cancers
  • Reconstruction following Mohs or oncologic excision
  • Meticulous restoration of form, symmetry, and function

Our goal is not only complete cancer removal, but thoughtful reconstruction that respects facial anatomy and appearance.

Facial Reconstruction & Scar Revision

ENT and facial plastic surgery training allows for advanced management of:

  • Facial defects following trauma or surgery
  • Scar revision and contour refinement
  • Soft tissue and structural reconstruction

Each plan is customized, balancing medical necessity with aesthetic outcome.

Understanding Structural vs. Allergic Nasal Issues

Allergies are common in the Houston area and often cause itching, sneezing, and fluctuating congestion. Structural nasal problems, however, create a constant physical blockage that does not improve with allergy medications or nasal sprays.

Patients who feel consistently congested or restricted when breathing through the nose often have anatomical issues such as nasal valve collapse or a significant septal deviation. These conditions are frequently misdiagnosed as chronic sinusitis or allergies. Accurate evaluation by a fellowship-trained ENT specialist is essential to determine whether surgical correction is appropriate.

Smiling woman posing in soft black and white.
Profile of a woman in black and white.
Black and white portrait of a woman.
Abstract gray landscape with smooth textures.

Am I a Candidate for Advanced ENT Surgery?

Advanced ENT surgery may be recommended when structural abnormalities interfere with breathing or sinus health and do not respond to conservative treatment.

Surgery may not be appropriate if symptoms are purely allergic, if underlying medical conditions increase surgical risk, or if expectations fall outside what can be safely achieved. Dr. Swonke takes a conservative, patient-centered approach and recommends surgery only when it is likely to provide meaningful, lasting benefit.

Close-up of a woman with wavy hair.

Who These Services Are For

These advanced ENT services may be appropriate for patients who:

  • Struggle with chronic sinus or nasal breathing issues
  • Require functional nasal surgery
  • Have been diagnosed with facial skin cancer
  • Need reconstructive care following Mohs surgery or trauma
  • Want expert evaluation from a surgeon trained in both ENT and facial plastic surgery
Abstract white background with subtle textures.

Your Treatment Path

Your consultation includes a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and detailed evaluation of the nasal airway. Diagnostic tools such as nasal endoscopy or CT imaging may be used to identify the precise cause of obstruction.

Based on your anatomy and symptoms, a customized treatment plan may include:

  • Septoplasty to straighten the nasal septum
  • Inferior Turbinate Reduction to reduce tissue contributing to congestion
  • Functional Rhinoplasty to reinforce internal nasal support
  • Nasal Valve Repair to prevent airway collapse

Modern ENT surgery has significantly improved patient comfort and recovery.

  • Traditional nasal packing is rarely required
  • Internal splints allow airflow during healing
  • Most patients experience congestion similar to a severe cold during the first week
  • Breathing continues to improve as swelling subsides over several weeks

Why Choose Heights Plastic Surgery for Advanced ENT Care?

Advanced ENT care at Heights Plastic Surgery is directed entirely by Dr. Megan Swonke, a fellowship-trained Otolaryngologist with advanced facial plastic surgery expertise. From initial evaluation through surgery and follow-up, care is physician-led and highly individualized, ensuring that each patient receives a precise diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to their specific anatomy and concerns.

Structural correction is performed with careful attention to both function and form. Dr. Swonke’s dual training allows her to restore airflow and sinus function without compromising the natural balance and appearance of the nose. This integrated approach ensures that functional improvements are achieved alongside thoughtful aesthetic preservation.

As a boutique practice, Heights Plastic Surgery prioritizes personalized care over volume. Patients are guided through every stage of treatment by a consistent clinical team, allowing for continuity, clear communication, and a focused recovery experience that larger, high-throughput practices often cannot provide.

Heights Plastic Surgery

Schedule a Consultation

The addition of advanced ENT services reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding thoughtful, specialized care for our patients. With this expertise now available at Heights Plastic Surgery, we are able to offer a more complete spectrum of facial care—rooted in health, function, and refined outcomes.

Schedule a consultation to learn whether advanced ENT or functional facial procedures may be right for you.

Dr. Downey meeting with a plastic surgery patient in Houston
Three professionals standing together indoors.

Refined Brilliance in Every Detail

Heights Plastic Surgery’s
 Commitment to Excellence

True confidence relies on exceptional skill and a shared dedication to your care.

At Heights Plastic Surgery, we elevate your experience by bringing highly focused specialists together under one roof. Your aesthetic goals are guided by a team of board-certified plastic surgeons who have collectively published over 60 peer-reviewed medical papers and lectured around the world.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cara Downey (who has been featured in Vogue) blends deep clinical knowledge with a vital female perspective to deliver elegant, beautifully natural-looking outcomes. Dr. Jamal Bullocks is a board-certified plastic surgeon and reconstructive surgery expert who pairs extensive research with international leadership, bringing absolute precision to every procedure. Dr. Megan Swonke is a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon and an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, whose unique background allows her to focus deeply on balance and harmony for the face and neck.

Our private, in-house surgery center offers the highest levels of safety, comfort, and privacy, and our comprehensive skin and wellness care ensures your aesthetic journey is entirely seamless. When you choose Heights Plastic Surgery, you are giving yourself the highest caliber of collaborative care from trusted experts who elevate beauty and empower confidence.

Woman holding silicone breast implants in hands
Doctor examining patient in clinical setting
Measuring chest circumference with a caliper tool
Abstract white background with subtle textures.

Advanced ENT Treatments Frequently Asked Questions

If nasal congestion is constant and does not improve with allergy medication, sprays, or seasons, the issue is often structural. Problems like a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse cause a physical blockage that medication cannot fix. An ENT evaluation is the only way to confirm the cause.

Procedures such as septoplasty, turbinate reduction, and nasal valve repair are commonly used to improve nasal airflow. The exact surgery depends on which internal structures are causing obstruction and is determined during a detailed ENT examination.

Many advanced ENT procedures are considered medically necessary and may be covered by insurance, especially when treating nasal obstruction or chronic sinus disease. Coverage depends on diagnosis and plan details. Our office assists with insurance verification and prior authorization.

Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within 7–10 days. Congestion is common during the first week. Breathing continues to improve over several weeks as swelling subsides, with full healing occurring over a few months.

Functional ENT surgery is designed to improve breathing, not alter appearance. When structural support is added, changes are typically subtle and natural. Dr. Swonke’s facial plastic surgery training ensures nasal balance and aesthetics are carefully preserved.

Nasal surgery often improves airflow and can reduce snoring and make CPAP therapy more effective. While it is not usually a standalone cure for severe sleep apnea, it can significantly improve breathing and sleep quality.

If you have persistent nasal blockage, frequent sinus infections, or difficulty breathing through your nose despite medication, it is time to see an ENT specialist. Structural problems require surgical evaluation, not additional prescriptions.

Shine On All Year Long

Heights Plastic Surgery Membership Plans

When skin maintenance and aesthetics-inspired wellness protocols become part of your regular routine, your body stays nourished, collagen production stays active, and you feel refreshed, day in and day out. Our Heights Plastic Surgery membership offerings remove the guesswork of your next visit, making it easy to stay true to your plan while enjoying preferred pricing on treatments.

Diamond Club Membership

The Diamond Club membership includes one clinical treatment each month (such as a Hydrafacial, chemical peel, or IPL photofacial), plus an exclusive 10% discount on surgical cases and additional medical spa services.

Discover

Essex Society Membership

The Essex Society membership provides a personalized approach to longevity, offering comprehensive baseline lab panels, monthly body composition tracking, complimentary wellness injections, and tiered savings on peptide regimens and medspa treatments.

Discover