What is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Are you one of the almost 31 million Americans who suffer from chronic sinusitis? Swollen, inflamed, and irritated sinus passages can lead to stuffiness, congestion, headaches, sore throats, and more.
The fall season is especially difficult for some sufferers who find the changing weather, and falling leaves trigger sinus issues. Germs are more prevalent, too, as we all retreat indoors and the kids go back to school. Sinus problems can quickly progress into a full-blown infection.
So before that nagging sniffle or cough takes you down with a sinus infection this year, make plans to be proactive about the sinusitis that plagues you. If you’ve tried medications—including steroids, antibiotics, decongestants, or saline sprays—but they haven’t made a difference, it’s time to consider undergoing a balloon sinuplasty.
Balloon Sinuplasty Relieves Chronic Sinusitis
Balloon sinuplasty is a quick, simple endoscopic procedure that opens and reshapes sinus passages without removing tissue or bone.
It’s similar to cardiologists’ use of balloons to dilate blocked arteries. Sinuplasty, also known as balloon dilation, enlarges sinus passages to open the drainage pathways. The balloon is filled with saline and fitted onto a tiny catheter. This catheter is inserted into the nose and then into the opening of the problem sinus.
Once the balloon is inside, it is dilated for about 5-10 seconds. This enlarges the sinus opening up to six times its normal size, allowing it to drain and ventilate freely.
We perform this procedure in our office under local anesthesia, which means there’s quicker recovery than traditional sinus surgery and less downtime. Most patients return to work the next day.
Traditional sinus surgery involves the removal of tissue and bone to enlarge the nasal passages. This procedure can be painful, and recovery can take up to 4 weeks. Because balloon sinuplasty dilates tissue rather than removes it, the amount of trauma is greatly reduced. No packing is needed after this surgery, and bleeding is minimal.
Is It Time to Get a Balloon Sinuplasty?
Don’t face another winter of painful, always-present sinusitis. A balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive, low-pain, low-risk procedure that can bring you almost immediate relief from your sinus issues.
We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about your options, including a balloon sinuplasty. Contact us or give us a call at 931-451-8401 to schedule a consultation today.
