Sinus problems can occur year-round and strike when you least expect. If you suffer from chronic sinus issues and their many bothersome symptoms, from headaches to trouble breathing, balloon sinuplasty may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
At Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center, Wade Han, MD, FACS, has helped countless patients banish ongoing sinus problems and breath easy with balloon sinuplasty.
Here’s what you need to know about this procedure and how to tell if it might be a good option for you.
Balloon sinuplasty is an outpatient medical procedure that helps open up your nasal passages to reduce sinus congestion and pressure and make it easier to breathe. Since the FDA approved it in 2005, it’s become an increasingly popular option for treating many chronic sinus problems.
During a balloon sinuplasty procedure, a balloon is inserted into your sinus using a special flexible catheter. Once the balloon is in place, it’s gently inflated. The pressure from the balloon material widens the sinus passages so they function better. That means they can drain fluid more effectively so you won’t experience facial pressure and headaches caused by built-up sinus fluids, and you’ll also be able to breathe easier.
Because sinus pressure often increases when you lie down, many people find a balloon sinuplasty procedure also helps them sleep better. It may even help reduce snoring.
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that even though the instrument used to perform the procedure goes inside your sinuses, there are no incisions. Your nasal tissues, bones, and cartilage aren’t cut, so there are no scars to think about, and there’s no downtime following your procedure. Most sinuplasty procedures can be performed using a local anesthetic, sometimes with a little sedation to help you relax. Sinuplasty is approved for patients of all ages, including kids.
Sinuplasty can be a really good treatment option for people with chronic sinusitis, including chronic allergy sufferers. It’s also typically a good choice for people with sinus problems affecting the front portion of their sinuses.
Balloon sinuplasty recommended for patients who:
Some sinus issues aren’t corrected with balloon sinuplasty, such as those caused by nasal polyps. Similarly, it may not be a fit for patients with deviated septums.
To determine whether you are a candidate for balloon sinuplasty, Dr. Han performs a thorough evaluation, including a review of your symptoms, your medical history and any medications you’ve taken to help relieve your symptoms. Diagnostic imaging may also be performed, and the doctor will probably use a special lighted scope to look inside your sinuses during your evaluation.
Don’t put up with chronic sinus problems; get help. Contact Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center to set up an appointment. Call the office that’s most conveniently located to you.
