What Is A Balloon Sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is a form of endoscopic nasal surgery performed by a surgeon who specializes in otolaryngology. Most people who need this type of surgery suffer from sinus inflammation (rhinosinusitis) or severe rhinitis. South Florida ENT Associates located in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines specialize in ear, nose, and throat treatments such as balloon sinuplasty—read on to learn more.

Symptoms of Rhinitis and Rhinosinusitis

Rhinitis and rhinosinusitis symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Loss of smell
• Headaches
• Mucus discharge from the nose
• Sore throat
• A cough which worsens at night

When the membranes that line the sinuses become inflamed, they prevent mucus and nasal discharge from draining normally. This eventually causes congestion and can lead to an infection. Balloon sinuplasty involves the insertion of inflatable catheters in the nasal passages to drain fluid from the sinus cavities. This procedure, developed from angioplasty (a type of heart surgery which uses balloon catheters to open blocked arteries), was approved by the FDA in 2005. It is very effective for reducing inflammation and alleviating rhinosinusitis.

Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty

Hollywood and Pembroke Pines patients have the following benefits after balloon sinuplasty:

• Reduced risk of bleeding
• Faster recovery time
• No need to remove sinus tissue
• Lower risk of infection
• Lower risk of scar tissue

What to Expect From a Balloon Sinuplasty 

A balloon sinuplasty may be performed under local or general anesthetic. During the procedure, the surgeon will dilate one or more of the main nasal sinus openings. This will enable any blockages to be easily drained without causing any discomfort. The doctor will use a mild saline solution to flush out any remaining congestion. You should avoid blowing your nose for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

Side effects, if they occur, are usually minor and may include:

• Drainage of a slightly bloody fluid which can last for 2-3 days
• Tenderness around the forehead, nasal area, or cheeks
• Mild congestion

If you’re looking for an ear, nose, and throat specialist in South Florida, you can call our Hollywood practice at (954) 966-7000 or our Pembroke Pines practice at (954) 438-1015.