Chronic sinus problems can have a negative impact on all areas of life, which is why it is important to work with an experienced ENT to evaluate treatment options.
Patients with ongoing sinus inflammation or severe rhinosinusitis often have blockages in the nose that need to be cleared. Balloon sinuplasty can be completed in our office to open the sinus cavities so they can drain.
Balloon Sinuplasty: FDA Approved Treatment
This treatment was approved by the FDA in 2005 and is widely known as one of the most effective treatment options for reducing the symptoms of rhinosinusitis. One of the main benefits of balloon sinuplasty is that it is minimally-invasive.
The procedure involves no loss of nasal tissue or bone, and no cutting is required. As such, the recovery time is short compared to other surgical treatments.
How Balloon Sinuplasty Works
This procedure can be done in our office, using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. A flexible, slim balloon catheter is inserted into the sinus passage. Then, this balloon is inflated slowly and expands the space within the sinus.
Next, the ENT flushes the sinus cavity to remove mucus and infection that has built-up because of the blockage. The balloon can also be used to gently realign the bones surrounding the sinuses.
Finally, the balloon is deflated and removed. The result is that the sinus passage is opened so it can drain as needed, and you will feel immediate relief from the built-up pressure caused by the blockage.
Recovery After Treatment for Balloon Sinuplasty
Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two after the treatment. Be careful not to blow your nose within the first 24 hours after the surgery.
You might notice discharge or bloody drainage during the healing time, which is a normal side-effect that lasts for about a week. Other possible side effects can include congestion, swelling, and fatigue. During the first week of recovery, it is important to avoid strenuous activity that can increase the heart rate. Additionally, sleeping with the head elevated can reduce drainage discomfort.
Benefits of In-Office Balloon Sinuplasty
Is an in-office balloon sinuplasty the right treatment for your sinuses? If you are looking for solutions to address the symptoms of chronic sinus issues, then this procedure might be a good option to consider. Some of the benefits of balloon sinuplasty include:
- Local Anesthesia: There is no need to visit the hospital for general anesthesia. Local anesthesia reduces the potential side effects that can come from hospitalization.
- Speedy Recovery: Most people feel great within two days after the treatment. Recovery time varies depending on the overall health of each patient, but the recovery tends to be faster than other invasive sinus surgeries.
- Cost Savings: Since the treatment can be completed in our office, there is no need to pay additional costs for general anesthesia, hospital fees, and other unnecessary bills. In most cases, the out-of-pocket expenses are lower for an in-office treatment compared to treatments offered in a hospital setting.
- Proven Results: Many patients have experienced great success from balloon sinuplasty. The patient satisfaction is so high that people often recommend this treatment to friends and family.
- Comfort: We offer a clean, relaxing environment for our patients. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable before, during, and after the treatment.
Talk to a Local ENT about Balloon Sinuplasty and Chronic Sinusitis
If you have severe or chronic sinusitis that doesn’t respond to other medical treatments (such as antibiotics, nasal decongestants, nasal rinses, and corticosteroids), then it might be time to discuss balloon sinusitis with a local ENT.
At Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat, we offer quality ENT services for families in Dallas and Collin County. Schedule an exam at one of our nearby offices, located in Frisco or Plano, TX: (972) 596-4005