Balloon Sinuplasty FAQ
Past treatment solutions for chronic sinusitis often involved invasive surgery to open sinuses. Today, however, a minimally-invasive, in-office treatment alternative exists that is safe and effective with no need for cutting and removing sinus bone or tissue, uncomfortable gauze packing procedures or embarrassing bruising. The procedure takes only about an hour and recovery is impressively speedy. Safe and effective, this proven alternative to sinus surgery is called balloon sinuplasty.
This minimally-invasive procedure for treating chronic or recurring sinusitis utilizes a tiny nasal balloon to open up narrow or blocked sinus passages, relieving the cause of the pressure and pain associated with chronic sinusitis. By reestablishing proper drainage, other breathing issues including snoring and sleep apnea can be improved, allergy symptoms reduced, and incidences of pneumonia circumvented.
One of the biggest advantages of sinus ballooning compared to traditional sinuplasty surgery is the sinus balloon surgery recovery time. Just 1-2 days following this simple, 1-hour in-office procedure, you can return to normal activities. Because the body’s natural sinus openings and surrounding tissue are preserved, future treatment options are not limited to those with progressive sinus issues. Safe and effective, it can be used with other surgery options or medications – or help you break free from medications completely, finally achieving relief from your sinusitis symptoms. In fact, treatment results are so remarkable, 95% of patients who’ve undergone the procedure would choose to have it again.
What Does the Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure Involve?
The non-invasive procedure typically takes about an hour, with virtually no post-procedure recovery and observation time necessary. For your comfort and convenience, it is performed in our state-of-the-art facilities. During the procedure, you will receive a local anesthetic, (similar to those used by your dentist) depending on your needs. Afterward, a tiny, FDA-approved balloon will be inserted through your nostril(s) to open the blockages in your sinuses. Similar to the angioplasty procedure for blocked arteries, the balloon is slowly inflated to expand the sinus opening, allowing for the restructuring necessary for proper sinus drainage. The balloon is then deflated and withdrawn. A saline solution could then be used to flush out built-up mucus. After leaving the office, you can expect minimal pain and bleeding. You should avoid blowing your nose and heavy physical activity for 24 hours following the procedure, sleep with your head elevated, rinse with a saline nasal solution, and take oral antibiotics or corticosteroids as directed for the prevention of infection or discomfort.
