Nasal Congestion Treatment in Dr. Carlos Gamboa – Otorrinolaringología & rhinoplasty
About the clinic
Nasal congestion care at Dr. Carlos Gamboa’s otolaryngology and rhinoplasty practice in Cali, Colombia, includes nasal assessment and functional surgery. Dr. Carlos Gamboa has over 25 years of experience and completed a fellowship at Harvard Medical School’s Otolaryngology Department.
Assessment and diagnostic tests
Assessment can take place in person or virtually and includes review of nasal structure and breathing. Digital result simulation may help patients discuss possible changes. The clinic also offers these examinations:
- Nasal endoscopy: Examination of the inside of the nose.
- Laryngoscopy: Examination of the larynx.
- Otoscopy: Examination of the ears.
- Pre-surgical tests: A hemogram and other required examinations can be done at the clinic.
Surgical options
Functional septorhinoplasty is offered for chronic congestion, a deviated septum, or combined breathing and appearance concerns. The clinic has operating rooms certified and monitored under Colombian health authority rules.
- Primary functional septorhinoplasty: Open surgery begins with a small incision in the columella. The first phase corrects septal deviation and reduces enlarged turbinates to improve airflow. The second reshapes the nasal tip, bridge, or nostrils. High-power motorized instruments shape bone and cartilage. Surgery takes about 3–5 hours under general anesthesia, with a dedicated anesthesiologist.
- Open rhinoplasty: The columella incision gives direct access to nasal structures. The surgeon can adjust cartilage, bone, and support structures during one procedure.
- Open rhinoplasty with rib cartilage graft: Cartilage from the patient’s rib provides structural support. This more complex, longer operation requires a thoracic surgeon to harvest the cartilage.
- Aesthetic rhinoplasty: Open surgery is tailored to facial anatomy when functional correction is not needed.
Recovery and follow-up
Functional septorhinoplasty is usually performed without nasal packing and leaves no visible scars. Mild congestion or breathing discomfort may last about five days. Discharge is on the same day, after recovery from anesthesia. Follow-up visits, in person or virtual, continue periodically for about one year as healing and nasal function are reviewed.
For patients traveling to Cali, the clinic recommends a stay of at least 16 days for surgery and initial check-ups. Virtual follow-up can continue after returning home. Patients can request a consultation through Bookimed to discuss assessment and treatment options.
Highlights
Get a free consultation

How are we doing?
Dr. Carlos Gamboa – Otorrinolaringología & rhinoplasty: more details about the clinic
Dr. Carlos Gamboa – Otorrinolaringología & rhinoplasty is a private single-specialty clinic in Cali, Colombia. The practice operates from one building in the San Fernando neighborhood. It focuses exclusively on aesthetic and functional nose surgery for local and international patients.
Professional Leadership and Certifications
Dr. Carlos Gamboa leads the clinic. He specializes in Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Gamboa serves as President of the Colombian Society of Facial Plastic Surgery and Rhinology for 2026–2028. He is also a Fellow of Harvard Medical School.
Surgical safety is a primary focus. All procedures take place at the Otorhinolaryngology Clinic in Cali, which partners with institutions approved by Colombian health authorities. The operating rooms are certified and monitored under strict regulations.
Specialties and Rhinoplasty Methods
The clinic specializes in high-precision rhinoplasty. The team treats conditions like deviated septum and chronic nasal congestion. Each procedure balances facial harmony with respiratory function. The clinic does not perform secondary or tertiary surgeries.
Surgeons use several techniques for nasal reconstruction and remodeling:
- Open rhinoplasty through a small incision in the columella for direct visualization.
- Primary functional septorhinoplasty to correct breathing issues and nasal structure.
- Aesthetic rhinoplasty tailored to individual facial anatomy.
- Autologous cartilage grafting using the patient's own rib when structural support is needed.
- Specialized variations including Asian, ethnic, and bulbous nose rhinoplasty.
Surgery typically lasts 3 to 5 hours. Recovery is gradual, and final results settle over about one year. Patients receive a medication kit and detailed care instructions at their preoperative appointment.
Advanced Surgical Technology
The clinic uses high-power motorized instruments for precise bone and cartilage remodeling. This technology replaces classic osteotomy in many cases. It reduces visible swelling and bruising after surgery, with results similar to ultrasonic rhinoplasty.
Diagnostic tools within the clinic include:
- Nasal endoscopy to examine internal nasal passages.
- Laryngoscopy to evaluate the throat and larynx.
- Otoscopy for ear examinations.
- Digital simulation to show possible outcomes before surgery.
These tools help the team create a detailed treatment plan for every patient.
Services for International Patients
The clinic offers a structured pathway for patients traveling from the United States and other countries. The process begins with a virtual assessment to evaluate candidacy and provide a quote. For those visiting Cali, the clinic recommends staying at least 16 days. This allows time for surgery and initial postoperative check-ups.
Logistical support simplifies the travel experience:
- Coordinated transport with English-speaking drivers for airport and clinic transfers.
- Optional accommodation support during recovery.
- Optional nursing care for the first hours or days after surgery.
- Virtual follow-up check-ups once the patient returns home.
International patients can also have required bloodwork ordered before traveling to Colombia.
Additional services
Patient reviews
Juan Diego Castañeda Porras
Mayerliz Pérez Hernández
The staff’s care is excellent.
Don’t hesitate to get operated with the best
Doctor Gamboa and all his team.
Angie Soto
Andres Chapuel
Alejandra Manzano
Nicole Arias
The doctor took exceptional care of me, and also of my grandparents, who accompanied me. They always made us feel calm, looked after, and in the best hands. His team was just as wonderful; they kept an eye on me after the surgery, making sure my recovery went well, and answering every one of my questions through the chat with a lot of patience and professionalism.
The result of my nose turned out even better than what I imagined. He achieved all the changes I wanted, while keeping an entirely natural and harmonious look with my face. You can see the love and passion he has for what he does, and that makes all the difference.
I recommend this doctor without a doubt. His human quality and exceptional work make him the best.
isabella correa alvarez
Dilia Marcela Jimenez Cogollo
STEPHANIE SANTIAGO
Av. 4 Norte # 14N-38, Cali, Colombia
Get a free consultation

How it works:
- We find a medical coordinator familiar with the matter
- You get a personal offer with a step-by-step guide and the cost estimate
- We arrange your travel including appointment scheduling and flights booking
- You arrive at the hospital, we support you 24/7



