Balloon Sinuplasty
In-office balloon sinuplasty is a safe and effective way to alleviate chronic sinus problems for patients.
Unlike traditional sinus surgeries which often remove bone and tissue to restructure the sinuses, balloon sinuplasty is less invasive and helps sinuses drain better by simply expanding the passageways with a balloon, very similar to the technique used to dilate arteries in angioplasties.
Performed in the comfort of an office setting under local anesthesia, most find that in-office balloon sinuplasty is not only effective but convenient and less costly than sinus procedures done in the hospital. In-office balloon sinuplasty typically takes an hour or so depending on the number of sinuses to be treated.
Am I a Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?
You may be a candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty if you have:
- Chronic sinus pressure and pain
- Frequent headaches
- Frequent sinus infections
- Decreased sense of smell
- Recurrent Sinus Infections
Recovery is speedy compared to other sinus procedures and most are back to daily activities within a day or two. Nasal sprays are used to provide local anesthesia so the nasal and sinus passageways are numb when the procedure is done. A light anti-anxiety medication can also be given if needed.
Once you are comfortable and the area is numb, a small flexible guidewire is inserted into the nasal passageways up into the sinus. The not yet inflated balloon is inserted over the guidewire and once in place, is gently expanded to widen the blocked sinus passageway. Widening the passage that leads out of the sinus allows the sinus to drain more effectively, thus relieving a multitude of sinus complaints sometimes immediately following the procedure. After expansion, the balloon is deflated and slowly removed leaving a restructured and properly functioning sinus. Most clients report little to no discomfort during in-office balloon sinuplasty.
While some may experience immediate relief from balloon sinuplasty, it is not uncommon to experience some post-procedure swelling and congestion. The full benefits of the procedure are generally felt after three to four weeks. Aftercare is minimal but often requires saline nasal sprays to keep the passageways moist along with intranasal corticosteroids to decrease any inflammation and swelling. Post-procedure instructions often include things like no forceful blowing of the nose and avoidance of other activities that could cause trauma to the nose.
In-office balloon sinuplasty is revolutionizing the treatment of chronic sinus ailments and patient satisfaction is extremely high. It is safe, convenient, effective, and minimally invasive. For those who are candidates, it provides a significantly less expensive option to traditional sinus surgery.
Contact Us Today!
At Boulder Valley Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, we provide the highest quality patient care in a friendly, professional atmosphere. We emphasize personalized customer service, availability, efficiency, honesty and integrity, and attention to detail. We strive to do things the right way at every level, all the time.
To find out if Balloon Sinuplasty is right for you, schedule a consultation today!