A highly successful treatment for sinus issues, balloon sinuplasty is a popular option for those who are looking for lasting relief. Patients who are considering balloon sinuplasty to address their chronic sinus infections naturally have many questions about the procedure and what it entails. One common question that many individuals have is whether or not the effects of the procedure are permanent.
At South Florida ENT Associates, our expert team is highly experienced in carrying out this life-changing procedure. The following information is provided for prospective balloon sinuplasty patients.
What is Balloon Sinuplasty Designed to Treat?
Balloon sinuplasty is a revolutionary new approach to sinusitis treatment, helping patients who have failed to see improvement from other interventions (such as nasal sprays). Individuals who suffer from chronic inflammation usually respond well to balloon sinuplasty, as it manually opens blocked passageways of the nose and sinuses to facilitate improved airflow and breathing.
When our sinuses become blocked due to chronic inflammation, air and mucus are no longer able to pass through. Eventually, this leads to a buildup of pressure and fluid, which can cause infections. Balloon sinuplasty works by opening up the blocked areas and flushing out this buildup.
What Does a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure Entail?
Balloon sinuplasty can be carried out either as an outpatient procedure in a doctor’s office or under general anesthesia. When carried out in an office setting, the practitioner applies a local anesthetic to the nose to ensure that patients are free from any discomfort or pressure throughout the duration of the procedure. A small catheter with a lighted camera is inserted into the sinus cavity, guiding in a small balloon that will be inflated. As the balloon inflates, the blocked passageways start to open, allowing for built-up mucus and bacteria to be fully flushed out. Once this process is complete, the balloon is released and guided back out of the nasal cavity.
What is the Recovery Period Like?
As this treatment involves no incisions, the recovery from a balloon sinuplasty is typically quick and easy. Patients will be able to get back home right away, allowing them to resume their normal activities within a week. Patients may experience some side effects, such as tenderness and grogginess, but these are normal during the first few days of recovery and will pass eventually. Patients should make sure to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities such as exercising or blowing their noses for the first few days following the treatment. Nasal drainage is common during this phase, and patients will have to use a saline spray to irrigate and rinse the sinuses until they have fully healed.
What is the Takeaway?
While it is different for everyone, many patients find that the results of balloon sinuplasty are permanent. Studies show that approximately 90% of patients who have undergone balloon sinuplasty still enjoy the benefits two years after the procedure is completed. This alone exemplifies the incredible efficacy of this procedure.
At SFENTA, our ENT specialists are well-versed in carrying out balloon sinuplasty treatments. We employ expert techniques to ensure that the procedure is successful and produces results that endure in the long term.
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with us and learn more about your treatment options with balloon sinuplasty.
