Balloon Sinuplasty: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Sinus Relief

Anyone who has ever had a sinus infection knows how miserable it can be. The pressure behind your eyes, constant congestion, and headaches make even the simplest daily tasks unbearable. And if you’re someone who deals with chronic sinusitis or recurring sinus infections, that misery is an unending cycle.

Many people with chronic sinusitis try everything from over-the-counter decongestants to prescription medications, but these only provide temporary relief. When sinus infections keep recurring or never entirely go away, a balloon sinuplasty may be what you need. 

Unlike traditional sinus surgery, a balloon sinuplasty clears blocked sinus passages without cutting or removing tissue. It’s quick, effective, and has a short recovery time, making it a popular option for people tired of struggling with chronic sinus issues. 

However, like any medical procedure, choosing the right specialist is critical. Mani Zadeh, MD, our renowned ear, nose, and throat specialist, has years of experience and a deep understanding of sinus health, which allows him to provide his patients with top-tier care.

In this blog, he explains how a balloon sinuplasty works and what to expect from the procedure.

What is a balloon sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is a modern, FDA-approved procedure that gently expands blocked sinus passages. Instead of making surgical incisions, a small, flexible balloon catheter is inserted into your sinus and inflated to open the airway. Once the passage is widened, the balloon is deflated and removed, allowing for better drainage and airflow.

The procedure is fast and comfortable, often taking less than an hour. Recovery is much easier than traditional sinus surgery because there’s no cutting or removing bone or tissue. Many patients experience relief within days and can return to normal activities almost immediately.

Why choose balloon sinuplasty over traditional surgery?

Traditional sinus surgery requires removing bone or tissue to clear your sinus passages. While effective, it has a longer recovery time, is more uncomfortable, and has a greater risk of complications. Balloon sinuplasty, on the other hand, is equally effective for many patients without these downsides. 

Patients prefer balloon sinuplasty because it’s minimally invasive and requires little downtime. The procedure occurs in-office using local anesthesia, meaning a hospital stay is unnecessary. Unlike traditional surgery, which can take weeks to recover fully, most patients resume their normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.

Who is a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty?

Not everyone with sinus problems needs surgery, but for those with chronic or recurring issues, balloon sinuplasty can be life-changing.

You might be a good candidate if:

• You have had four or more sinus infections in a year
• You experience constant nasal congestion or sinus pressure that doesn’t respond to medication.
• You suffer from sinus headaches, postnasal drip, or difficulty breathing through your nose
• You are looking for a long-term solution that avoids the risks and downtime of traditional surgery

However, some patients with severe sinus conditions, nasal polyps, or structural issues like a deviated septum may require additional treatments. A consultation with Dr. Zadeh can help determine if balloon sinuplasty is your best option.

Chronic sinus problems can be exhausting to deal with, and a balloon sinuplasty can change that. The procedure is safe, effective, and minimally invasive, providing long-term relief from recurring sinus infections. If you’re tired of relying on medications that only provide temporary relief, schedule a consultation with Mani Zadeh, MD, today.