Before, During & After the Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
If you are tired of the long-lasting pain, pressure, and congestion caused by sinus problems, balloon sinus dilation may help. Balloon sinus dilation, also known as the balloon sinuplasty procedure, is a safe, revolutionary office procedure that brings long-lasting relief after a very short recovery time.i
Choosing balloon sinuplasty is an important decision. That's why we want to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed choice. Learn everything you need to know about getting sinus relief from this simple procedure, including:
What Can I Expect From Balloon Sinuplasty?
The balloon sinuplasty procedure is fast, comfortable, and convenient. It’s done in the sinus doctor’s office and effectively opens your sinus pathway for long-term relief. You’ll notice clearer breathing, improved sleep, fewer sinus infections, and a better quality of life — without medication.i
Here’s how balloon sinuplasty works:
Before the Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
Your sinus doctor will help you prepare for the balloon sinuplasty procedure to achieve the very best outcome. You’ll have a complete exam to be sure there are no conditions that would keep you from having the treatment. You’ll also likely have a CT Scan (similar to an X-ray) taken, as well as learn how you should prepare for your procedure in the weeks and days before. Those instructions will include:
How to Prepare for a Balloon Sinusplasty Procedure
Your doctor will give you specific directions about preparing for your procedure, but here are some general guidlines to follow:
Temporarily stop some medications, vitamins, herbs, and alcohol.
Your doctor may suggest you stop using certain medications, herbs, supplements, and alcohol, which can cause bleeding during and after the procedure. Two weeks before the procedure, stop taking the following:
If you are taking prescription blood thinners, discuss this with your physician.
Start antibiotic medication.
If your sinus doctor prescribes you an antibiotic, start taking that medication the day before the procedure or as directed.
During Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty is a comfortable and simple in-office procedure that takes about one hour. Once you arrive for the procedure:
Your Questions Answered About Balloon Sinuplasty
Local anesthetic is used, so you will be awake during the procedure and comfortable. You will feel some pressure when the balloon is gently inflated in your sinus passage and you may hear a crackling sound.
Many people report little discomfort during the procedure and after.ii
Local anesthetic is used, so you will be awake during the procedure and comfortable.
Balloon sinuplasty typically takes about one hour.
After applying the anesthetic and waiting for about 20 minutes, the doctor will:
Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure Video
Learn more about what happens during a balloon sinuplasty procedure. Our short video explains how the procedure works and how it helps relieve symptoms of sinus pain, pressure, and infection.
After Balloon Sinuplasty
Within 10 to 15 minutes after the procedure is complete, you can leave the office. You may have some gauze under your nose to collect drainage. You may change this gauze as often as you feel necessary. The drainage will lessen over 24 to 48 hours.
You will receive instructions about what to do and what not to do following the procedure, which will include:
Do this:
Don't do this:
Recovery From the Balloon Sinuplasty Procedure
Not only is balloon sinuplasty quick and effective, but recovery time is also very short. Most patients return to normal activity within one to two days of the procedure. i
Many people report little discomfort after the procedure. If you do have discomfort after the anesthetic wears off, your doctor may suggest an over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol® or Extra Strength Tylenol® should work well.
The procedure will initially cause swelling and some tenderness in the sinus area. There will be some bloody discharge and congestion, which will lessen over several days. Here’s how to have a speedy recovery and increase comfort after the procedure:
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty gently opens your sinus to restore normal drainage. Because it is a gentle procedure, recovery is quick, with most patients resuming normal activities the next day.i Questions that are often asked about recovery from balloon sinuplasty include:
How long will it take to get back to work?
Most people return to their normal activities, including work, the day after the procedure. i There is typically no packing or stiches needed after the procedure, so there is no special wound care that must take place.
How long will it take to feel normal again?
Many people who have balloon sinuplasty report great improvement in symptoms only a few weeks after the procedure, including clear nasal passages and easier breathing. Over time, people find that they no longer have to fight sinus infections or experience pressure that causes headaches and face pain. i
Hear From People Who Have Had Balloon Sinuplasty
Freedom from sinus pain, pressure, and infections. Clearer breathing. Improved sleep. These are some of the improvements people who have had balloon sinuplasty report. Hear from them about why they recommend the procedure – and wish they had done it sooner!
Father's Perspective
Chronic sinusitis can cause a toll across a family, especially when the sufferer is your child. A father shares the story of his five year old daughter, and how balloon sinus dilation changed their lives.
Patient Perspective
A teenage boy and his father reflect on the son's experience with sinusitis and balloon sinus dilation, and the impact it had on the boy's quality of life.
People everywhere are finding sinusitis relief. You can too. Enter your ZIP code and preferred distance to find a sinus doctor near you who specializes in balloon sinuplasty.
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