Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed in-office that involves inserting an endoscope and thin catheter with the balloon through the nostril. The balloon gently inflates, expanding the sinus cavity, relieving blockages, and improving drainage. Once the affected sinus is cleared and expanded, the deflated balloon is removed, leaving you with clear, pressure-free sinuses.
The best part about balloon sinuplasty? No cutting is involved, meaning a significantly reduced blood loss or infection risk. Post-operative pain is minimal; you’ll start seeing the full results in two to three weeks.
While balloon sinuplasty has proven successful for many patients, it’s important to note that not everyone is a candidate. Check with your ENT doctor to see if it’s the right choice.
Is Balloon Sinuplasty Right For Me?
You might need balloon sinuplasty if you suffer from chronic sinusitis that is not responding to other treatments such as medications or saline rinses. Chronic sinusitis is when the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, leading to facial pain, pressure, congestion, and headaches that last for more than 12 weeks. Balloon sinuplasty is used to treat patients who have:
Ultimately, whether you need balloon sinuplasty will depend on the severity and underlying causes of your sinus problems, as well as your overall health and medical history.
What symptoms does Balloon Sinuplasty relieve?
Balloon sinuplasty is a procedure designed to relieve the symptoms of chronic sinusitis – when the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of chronic sinusitis that balloon sinuplasty may help to relieve include:
- Facial pain or pressure
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Post-nasal drip
- Fatigue
By improving sinus drainage and reducing inflammation, balloon sinuplasty may help to alleviate these and other symptoms of chronic sinusitis, leading to improved quality of life and a reduction in the need for medication or other treatments. Consult with your WNY ENT specialist to determine if balloon sinuplasty is right for you.