Understanding Balloon Sinus Dilation: A Non-Surgical Solution for Sinus Problems

Sinus problems are more common than you think. According to Penn Medicine researchers, chronic sinusitis affects as much as 10% of the entire United States population. Sinus issues like chronic sinusitis result in symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, postnasal drip, and headaches. Dealing with these symptoms at the same time can lower energy levels and make people feel chronically tired.

Dealing with persistent sinus issues can quickly impact one’s quality of life. Consider scheduling a consultation with an ENT specialist if you want to get to the bottom of your sinus problem, look at possible solutions, and achieve lasting relief. One treatment option you might hear from your doctor is balloon sinuplasty. Here’s everything you need to know about it:

What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon sinus dilation, more commonly known as balloon sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure that is ideal for treating chronic sinusitis and its accompanying symptoms. The procedure is often recommended when other forms of medication are deemed ineffective in treating sinus issues.

Balloon sinuplasty uses a small balloon catheter that is inserted into the sinus cavities, where it will be gently inflated. This will reshape the patient’s sinus openings, improving mucus drainage; as a minimally invasive procedure, it doesn’t require cuts or incisions and as an outpatient procedure, the patient can go home right after.

Am I an Ideal Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?

Some patients are more ideal candidates than others. You might be an ideal patient if you meet the following criteria:

• You experience common sinusitis symptoms like coughing, headaches, and facial pain/pressure.
• You have difficulty breathing through your nose.
• Your symptoms haven’t improved with other forms of medication or treatments.
• You do not have nasal polyps (overgrowths of tissue in the sinus cavities).
• You suffer from chronic sinus infections (sinusitis) that impact your quality of life.

Why You Should Get Balloon Sinuplasty for Your Sinus Problems

There are several benefits balloon sinuplasty can offer for sinusitis patients. These include:

• Balloon sinus dilation is a minimally invasive procedure

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to treat chronic sinusitis. It doesn’t require making any cuts and incisions or removing any bone or tissue in the nasal area. The procedure reshapes the patient’s nasal anatomy and improves breathing by encouraging proper mucus drainage.

• Balloon sinus dilation has little to no side effects

As with any medical procedure, there are bound to be some side effects but these are typically minimal and are no reason for major concerns. Some patients might experience minimal swelling, bleeding, or pain in the treatment area.

• Balloon sinus dilation has a quick recovery time

Balloon sinus dilation boasts a quick recovery time and it is often its major selling point. As an outpatient procedure, patients can typically go home on the same day. Additionally, most patients can resume normal activities about 24 hours after the balloon procedure.

• Balloon sinus dilation is safe and effective for long-term relief

Balloon sinuplasty offers safe and effective long-term relief from persistent sinus problems. The procedure is FDA-approved, guaranteeing its safety. By reshaping the patient’s sinus passages, it improves mucus drainage for better breathing. It can also significantly reduce the frequency and severity of sinus infections. While results will vary per patient, about 96% of those who have had the procedure report drastic improvements in their condition.

What Happens During the Procedure?

During a balloon sinus dilation procedure, your doctor will use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Then, a small balloon catheter will be inserted in the sinus cavities and gently inflated. This will widen and reshape the sinus passages, resulting in proper mucus drainage and improved breathing.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Balloon sinuplasty post-procedure recovery is generally quick. Most patients are able to return to normal activities 24 hours after the procedure. Minimal swelling, bleeding, and pain in the area can also be expected but nothing to be concerned about.

Your care provider will give you detailed post-treatment care instructions so make sure you follow them carefully. You will be advised to rest at home for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. During this time, you should avoid blowing your nose. You can use a nasal spray to clean your nasal passages instead. This may vary depending on what your doctor advises but you may need to avoid strenuous activities for about one week after the procedure.

Trust Gulf Coast Breathe Free to Alleviate Your Sinus Symptoms

Balloon sinus dilation is an effective way to achieve long-lasting relief from sinus problems. Though it’s a fairly simple procedure, make sure you choose an experienced team. At Gulf Coast Breathe Free, we are committed to providing our patients with the best solutions and the highest quality of care for their sinus problems. Schedule an appointment with us today and breathe better.

‍Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.