What is Balloon Sinuplasty?

Are you still dealing with facial pain, congestion, and other painful symptoms of chronic sinusitis? Your medication drawer is overflowing with failed attempts to reduce symptoms and you just don’t have time for surgery. If this sounds familiar, you may be a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty.

The board-certified ENTs at CT ENT Sinus Center can have you back to feeling normal in one afternoon sitting. Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe and highly effective in-office procedure that alleviates the cause of unrelenting chronic sinusitis symptoms.

Balloon Sinuplasty is a simple, minimally invasive procedure done in the comfort of your doctor’s office. A small catheter with a balloon on the end is placed inside your sinuses.  When the inflamed areas are located, the balloon is gently inflated to dilate the sinus passageways. The balloon is then deflated and removed, restoring normal drainage to your sinuses.

What is Balloon Sinuplasty Recovery Like?

Balloon Sinuplasty does not require the removal of bone or tissue; therefore, the recovery time is fast and with little downtime. Patients can return home shortly after the procedure is completed and typically resume normal activities within 48 hours. Here are some basic guidelines to help the healing process:

∙ Over-the-counter pain medication - Minor pain and discomfort can occur during and after a balloon sinuplasty procedure. Over-the-counter medication, like Advil or Tylenol, should suffice to subside the pain.

∙ Saline nasal rinses - Saline nasal rinses can be helpful with flushing any residual mucus or other fluids out of your sinuses. They can also help to prevent future infections when used properly. Always read the provided directions thoroughly before using a saline nasal rinse.

∙ Plenty of water - Patients may experience bleeding or drainage for about 24 hours after a Balloon Sinuplasty procedure. Staying hydrated helps thin the mucus and promotes the draining process.

What Should I Avoid After Balloon Sinuplasty?

∙ Driving - Do not drive for at least six hours after your Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure. Someone should drive you to your appointment and bring you back home.

∙ Eating and drinking - Local anesthesia is used during a Balloon Sinuplasty procedure. This may cause the throat to be numb for about 2 hours post-procedure. It is recommended to avoid eating or drinking until sensation has returned to your throat.

As with all medical procedures, complications are possible but rare with Balloon Sinuplasty. The ENTs at CT ENT will review the benefits and risks of Balloon Sinuplasty with you during an appointment.