Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, can cause a stuffy nose, headaches, and even teeth pain. If you’ve tried other options to relieve sinus pressure without success, visit ENT Specialists of Austin in Austin and Cedar Park, Texas.
Under the care of our team of Physicians, balloon sinuplasty is a safe and effective way to nonsurgically adjust the sinus cavities so you can breathe easy and end irritating symptoms. Call the office for a personalized consultation or schedule online using the one-click booking system.
Balloon Sinuplasty Q & A
What is a Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a catheter-based sinus procedure that dilates your natural sinus openings to relieve pressure and pain. The lining of your sinuses is preserved while inflatable balloons gently remodel the natural drainage pathways.
After the procedure, your sinus openings are larger, which allows the sinuses to keep functioning even in the presence of nasal swelling due to allergies or other triggers.
Am I a Candidate for Balloon Sinuplasty?
The balloon sinuplasty procedure is best for patients with chronic sinusitis. You may be a good candidate if you have had symptoms for longer than two months or you’ve had multiple episodes of acute sinus infections.
How Does a Balloon Sinuplasty Work?
The balloon sinuplasty procedure has a few key steps. First, your physician fully anesthetizes your nasal tissues and guides a catheter toward the sinus opening.
Then, they pass a wire through the catheter into your sinus opening and attach a balloon over the wire and into the sinus opening. Your physician gently inflates the balloon, which stretches the sinuses open and allows the bones to heal in this position.
Finally, your physician washes out the sinus cavity and suctions away any debris so you can breathe easy.
What are the Benefits of a Balloon Sinuplasty?
In most instances, this type of procedure is performable in the office. Advantages include a faster recovery, less bleeding, and less scarring than traditional sinus surgery. Most patients return to their normal daily routine within 1-2 days.
This procedure can deliver the same results as more invasive sinus surgery. Additionally, instead of removing the tissue around the natural sinus opening, the balloon procedure gently remodels the sinuses to have a larger opening without the need for tissue removal.
What Can I Expect After a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure?
Research shows that a balloon sinuplasty procedure can offer results that last up to two years. Many patients may experience relief for an extended period, while others may need to have the procedure repeated to maintain results.
After a balloon sinuplasty, it’s important to take care of your sinus health and avoid allergens or irritants that might affect the health of your ear, nose, and throat.
To learn more about balloon sinuplasty at ENT Specialists of Austin, book an appointment online or call the office today.