Millions of Americans suffer from sinusitis problems every year. These problems may range from a slightly runny nose to intense sinus ear pressure, difficulty breathing, and much more. 

Often a result of infections or allergies, many people use medications to alleviate their sinus issues. However, this form of treatment doesn’t work for every individual.

When over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief, some will find that they benefit from a procedure known as a balloon sinuplasty. This minimally invasive procedure is safe, and our McAllen ENT and sinus doctor would like to provide you with a bit of information about balloon sinuplasty

What Is Balloon Sinuplasty? 

A balloon sinuplasty can be used to treat a wide list of sinus issues, and is often used when patients have already exhausted other forms of treatment. The procedure starts with your McAllen ENT spraying your nose with a numbing agent and decongestants. 

Next, you’ll wait approximately 20 minutes or so for the anesthesia to take effect, or you may even have a local anesthetic applied directly to completely numb your nose. Your doctor will then examine your nose with an endoscope, place a catheter into your sinus, and may have to make a tiny puncture into your sinus right under your lip. 

Finally, the doctor will inflate a small balloon specially designed for the procedure for about ten seconds before removing it. It’s possible that you may hear a cracking sound, but this is normal, and for most patients, the process isn’t painful. 

The purpose of the procedure is to unblock your sinuses to help improve your breathing and alleviate other sinus issues. 

How’s the Recovery Process? 

The recovery process will vary depending on the patient. For the initial visit, patients can expect their appointment to last under two hours. While the procedure will almost never involve an overnight visit, and most patients feel good enough to leave the office after a short stay, it’s recommended to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the office. 

Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid any intense physical activities for at least a week and to sleep or rest in a position that promotes an elevated neck and head to help with sinus drainage. Also, it’s a good idea to avoid blowing your nose for a couple of days and to use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to help mitigate any discomfort. 

Following the initial procedure, there are typically follow-up appointments involving a nasal endoscopy after one week, three months, and a year. 

Possible side effects that may occur as a result of a balloon sinuplasty include:

  • Your nose might bleed more than expected
  • You might develop bacterial sinusitis and may need antibiotics to help combat it
  • Similar symptoms as before may return, which may call for an additional balloon sinuplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery

Overall Benefits

There are many benefits to getting a balloon sinuplasty, including:

  • Lower risk of bleeding when compared to other invasive treatments
  • Fewer appointments needed following the procedure
  • Minimally invasive with very little discomfort (if any)
  • Minimized risk of damage to sinus tissues and surrounding structures
  • Less of a need for postoperative pain medications

Visit the Glatz Group Doctors To Learn More About Balloon Sinuplasty

Having sinus problems like pressure in the head and ears can be extremely frustrating and painful, especially for patients that have tried various treatments. That’s why exploring the option of balloon sinuplasty can be a great choice. Not only has the procedure proved to benefit many patients, but it’s also minimally invasive and has a fast recovery time. 

Our sinus doctor at Glatz Group can help determine if balloon sinuplasty is a good choice for you. Our ENT doctor has years of experience and can perform the procedure effectively. Contact Glatz You Did! today to find out more. 

Book an appointment and talk to one of our sinus doctors today! Regain your comfort when you see The Glatz Group of Valley ENT!

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