Everyone has unfortunately experienced a stuffy nose at some point in their lives and the discomfort it causes. Most nasal congestion can be relieved with over-the-counter medications and resolves itself in a couple of days. Some needs to be treated with balloon sinuplasty. Chronic nasal congestion, however, is often a sign of sinusitis (chronic sinus congestion), and is accompanied by thick, discolored mucus; tenderness and swelling around eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead; headaches around the eyes; and diminished sense of taste and smell. Chronic sinusitis can be caused by an infection, growths or polyps in the sinuses, or chronic swelling of the lining of the sinuses, can last weeks, and often does not get better on its own.
Patients with chronic sinusitis are generally referred to a doctor known as an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat). Our experts at Virginia ENT may recommend an in-office procedure known as balloon sinuplasty.
What is balloon sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is an in-office procedure in which a wire catheter with a small balloon is passed through the nostril to the blocked sinus passageway. The balloon is inflated at the blockage, which opens and widens the sinus passageway, then withdrawn. Patients experience a return to normal sinus drainage and breathing function.
This minimally invasive technique is a safe and effective alternative to traditional sinus surgery, particularly for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis who haven’t responded well to medication. Since it doesn’t require any cutting of nasal bone or tissue, recovery time is generally much quicker, with many patients returning to normal activities within a day or two. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and discomfort during or after the treatment is usually minimal. Balloon sinuplasty has helped thousands of patients achieve long-lasting relief from sinus pressure, congestion, headaches, and facial pain—restoring not just their breathing, but their overall quality of life.
How to determine if I am a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty?
We will examine you and collect general medical history. If the sinusitis is chronic (recurs frequently), has not responded to medication, and there are no underlying nasal conditions (such as polyps or a deviated septum) causing the sinus blockage, then balloon sinuplasty is often recommended. During your consultation, we will also evaluate your symptoms, perform imaging if necessary, and discuss your treatment goals to determine if this procedure is the most appropriate option for you.
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive approach that can provide significant, lasting relief without the need for more extensive surgery. It’s especially beneficial for patients looking for a quick recovery and less downtime. Many individuals report improved breathing, reduced facial pressure, and fewer sinus infections following treatment. Our goal is to ensure you receive the safest and most effective care tailored specifically to your needs.
Benefits
- procedure is safe and effective
- less expensive than traditional surgery
- performed in-office
- no hospital stay is required
- minimally invasive
- only local anesthesia is needed
- minimal bleeding; no nasal packing is needed after the procedure
- no tissues or bones are damaged or broken during the procedure
- quicker recovery time than traditional surgery
If you have experienced recurring sinus blockages or infections which have not responded to medication, make an appointment with Virginia ENT to find out if balloon sinuplasty is an option for you. Our team has decades of combined experience to help you breathe better and live better! We take pride in offering compassionate, personalized care and the latest treatment techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Don’t let chronic sinus issues affect your daily life. Please call us as relief may be closer than you think.
