Balloon sinuplasty, also known as balloon catheter dilation surgery, is a common and safe medical procedure used to clear blocked sinuses. It is typically performed in a hospital or in a specially equipped clinic by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
 
During this procedure, your doctor will insert a very thin and flexible balloon catheter into your sinus passage. Once positioned, the balloon will then be slowly inflated to expand the opening of the sinus. This allows the practitioner to flush out any mucus blockages with a saline solution, which will immediately decrease the pressure you feel in your sinuses. The balloon also gently restructures the bones in your sinuses, helping to prevent future inflammation and infection.
 
Once this process is complete and the sinuses have been successfully cleared, your doctor will gently remove the balloon. The end result is sinus passages that are wider, less prone to nasal blockages, and clear of sinus pressure.

Balloon sinuplasty is commonly used to treat patients suffering from chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and/or sinus infections. It is usually recommended for those that haven’t responded to other forms of medical treatment, including antibiotics, and who have symptoms that have lasted longer than 12 weeks.
 
You may be eligible for balloon sinuplasty if you experience the following symptoms consistently and persistently:
 
• Stuffy nose
• Congestion
• Facial pressure
• Runny nose
• Green or yellow emissions from the nose.
• Redness and swelling around the sinuses.
• Loss of sense of smell
 
However, not everyone is a candidate for a balloon sinuplasty. This includes people who only have mild and periodic symptoms, have nasal polyps or tumors, can’t tolerate local or general anesthesia, or have certain medical issues that affect the sinus area.

Balloon sinuplasty offers many benefits for those that are eligible to receive it. The following are some advantages that you can expect from your treatment:
 
• It can provide long-term relief for those that have consistent and persistent sinus issues, severely diminishing the number of infections and blockages they get.
• It’s a safe and effective treatment option for those looking to relieve symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis.
• It’s minimally invasive, utilizing technology that is soft, flexible, and can easily be inserted into the nostril.
• There is minimal bleeding due to the technology and process that is used, in addition to no tissue or bone needing to be removed.
• There is minimal recovery time, with many patients returning to their day-to-day activities within 24 hours following their treatment.
• It can be used in combination with other medical therapies and sinus surgeries, allowing for more comprehensive treatment. In addition, it does not limit future treatment options if you’re suffering from a more progressive disease.
 
It’s important to always consult with your primary care physician or an ENT specialist before committing to balloon sinuplasty. They will be able to outline the benefits, risks, and whether or not it is a good treatment option for your unique medical needs.

After your balloon sinuplasty is complete, you’ll be expected to stay at the hospital or medical clinic until you feel comfortable leaving. As anesthetics are used during treatment, most healthcare providers recommend that you ask reliable and trusted individuals to drive you home.
 
It’s likely that you’ll need to attend follow-up appointments following your procedure to ensure everything is progressing as it should be. These usually take place at the one-week, three-month, and one-year mark and will likely include a nasal endoscopy.
 
If you’d like more insight into balloon sinuplasty, contact the dedicated team of ENT specialists at Southern ENT Associates. We would love to answer any questions that you have regarding our services or potential treatment options. We serve patients from Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, Youngsville LA, and surrounding areas!