Between the cooler winter air and the common cold and flu, most people expect some sinus issues this time of year. While medication and rest may work for some people, if you’re suffering from chronic sinus infections or swelling, you may need a different approach for sinus relief.
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure during which a small balloon is inserted into your nasal passage to open the airway. During the procedure, your ear, nose, and throat doctor will also be able to flush out any bacteria or mucus with a quick saline rinse.
Keep reading to find out if the balloon sinuplasty is right for you and how your Edinburg ENT can help you breathe better!
What Does a Balloon Sinuplasty Treat?
Sinus problems don’t just affect the nose; sometimes, they can cause facial pain, pressure, headaches, congestion, and discharge. A balloon sinuplasty could be the answer to clearing up these annoying sinus issues.
ENTs generally recommend a balloon sinuplasty treatment after people with chronic sinus infections have tried medication and gotten no relief. Doctors also use it to treat sinusitis, a swelling or inflammation of the sinuses.
Who Should Get a Balloon Sinuplasty?
Not everyone will be a good candidate for a balloon sinuplasty. If you have an ethmoid disease, nasal polyps, nasal tumors, or anatomical issues like a deviated septum, balloon sinuplasty isn’t right for you.
However, if you’re an adult who has suffered for more than 12 weeks with sinusitis, or it keeps coming back, you may be a good candidate for a balloon sinuplasty, depending on your symptoms.
- Frequent or chronic headaches
- Frequent or chronic congestion
- Frequent sore throat
- Yellow or green nasal drainage
- Facial pain and pressure
Keep in mind that doctors will try medication to resolve the issues first before attempting a balloon sinuplasty.
What Should I Expect After a Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure?
Your care team will place you under general or local anesthesia for the procedure. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a couple of days. You may not be able to blow your nose for 24 hours and have to avoid strenuous activity for one week after the procedure.
Since a balloon sinuplasty is less invasive than an open sinus surgery, you shouldn’t have any bruising or scars on your face. You may experience discolored nasal drainage or small amounts of blood in your nasal drainage, congestion, and discomfort for a few days during recovery.
Why Choose to Have a Balloon Sinuplasty at the Glatz Group?
A balloon sinuplasty is not only effective in relieving symptoms, but it also requires minimal downtime! Without the need to cut or remove tissues, the risk of infections, complications, bruising, or swelling is much lower than with an open sinus procedure.
At the Glatz Group, Dr. Glatz and his trusted team are here to make sure you stay comfortable throughout the procedure and recovery process. While a balloon sinuplasty isn’t the right fit for everyone, it may be for you! Reach out to our Edinburg office to find out if balloon sinuplasty is the answer you need to breathe better!