Do you experience chronic sinus infections (sinusitis), sinus inflammation, or nose blockage? If so, you may be a candidate for balloon sinuplasty. Also known as balloon catheter dilation surgery, this relatively quick procedure can make a big difference in your quality of life. Read on to find out who may benefit from a balloon sinuplasty, how the procedure is done, and what you can expect in terms of the recovery process.
Why balloon sinuplasty?
The nasal sinuses are two cavities on either side of your nose that are normally filled with air. During certain illnesses like a cold, the sinuses can sometimes become filled with fluid. This fluid is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria or other pathogens, which lead to a sinus infection and inflammation.
Most people get a balloon sinuplasty procedure to help with recurrent sinus infections, sinus inflammation, or problems breathing correctly due to infections or inflammation. A balloon sinuplasty cleans out and opens up the nasal sinuses. It results in relief from the pain of sinusitis and sinus congestion, including symptoms associated with these issues, such as headaches, sinus pressure, and more. Balloon sinuplasty is best for those with mild to moderate sinusitis who haven’t found relief using more conservative methods, such as antibiotics. It is an ideal method for those who want to avoid the more invasive traditional sinus surgery.
What happens during a balloon sinuplasty procedure?
Balloon sinuplasty is an outpatient procedure. Usually done under local anesthesia in the doctor’s office (but can be performed under general anesthesia). After administering anesthesia, the doctor will insert a thin wire with a camera and light at the end into your nose to get to your sinus cavity. Using the camera for guidance, a balloon catheter is then inserted. Your doctor will clean out your sinus cavities with a saline rinse, after which the balloon catheter will be inflated. This inflation causes the sinus passageway to gently open and widen, after which the balloon is deflated and removed from the sinus.
What is recovery like?
After the procedure, you can go home the same day. You may experience some swelling or redness as well as some minor tenderness around the area. As opposed to traditional sinus surgery, there is no cutting involved, no incisions, and no removal of tissue. In most cases, you can return to work the next day and resume normal activity within 24-48 hours.
If you’re considering a balloon sinuplasty procedure, don’t hesitate! Most insurances cover the procedure. Read more about the procedure and give our offices a call to schedule your consultation today!
