What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic sinus problems. It opens blocked sinus passages to restore normal drainage and improve breathing.
Unlike traditional sinus surgery, this procedure does not remove tissue or bone. Instead, it gently widens the natural sinus openings.
Why Is It Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend balloon sinuplasty if you have persistent symptoms such as:
- Chronic sinus infections
- Facial pressure or pain
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Post-nasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell
This procedure is typically considered when medications (such as nasal sprays or antibiotics) have not provided sufficient relief.
What Does “Awake, In-Office” Mean?
This procedure is performed in the office rather than the operating room, and you remain awake. Local anesthesia (numbing medication) is applied inside the nose, and you may receive medication to help you relax. You may feel pressure, and some minimal pain
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- A small, flexible instrument is placed into the nose
- A balloon catheter is guided into the blocked sinus opening
- The balloon is gently inflated to widen the sinus pathway
- The balloon is then removed, leaving the sinus open
- No cutting or tissue removal is required.
- Procedure time: approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of sinuses treated.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- You will be seated or lying comfortably
- You may feel pressure or a brief “full” sensation in the face
- Some patients may hear or feel mild pressure during sinus dilation
- Most patients tolerate the procedure very well
What to Expect After the Procedure
- You will go home the same day
- Mild congestion, drainage, or slight bleeding is common
- Symptoms typically improve over 1–2 weeks
- Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days
Benefits of Balloon Sinuplasty
Many patients experience:
- Improved nasal breathing
- Reduced sinus pressure and infections
- Faster recovery compared to traditional sinus surgery
- Minimal downtime
Risks
Balloon sinuplasty is very safe. Possible risks include:
- Mild bleeding
- Infection (rare)
- Temporary discomfort or pressure
- Need for additional treatment if symptoms persist
Pre-Procedure Instructions
- Wear comfortable clothing
- You must have a driver to and from your procedure if you take any oral sedation medication
- Your driver must remain in the office during your appointment
Medication Instructions
- If prescribed Valium, take it only as directed by your physician or nurse
- Do not take Valium prior to signing consent forms unless instructed
Day of Procedure
The first 20 minutes will be spent decongesting and numbing your nose. You may experience temporary throat numbness, which can create a sensation of difficulty swallowing or breathing (this is expected) Once adequately numbed, you will be taken to the procedure room.
During the Procedure
- You will remain awake but comfortable
- The physician will guide you through the steps
- Lights may be dimmed and music offered for comfort
- You may feel pressure and hear minor sounds during balloon inflation
Post-Procedure Care
Pain Management
- Take ibuprofen 400 mg starting 4 hours after the procedure
- Repeat every 6 hours as needed, or as directed by your physician
Common Symptoms
You may experience:
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Mild bleeding
- Sinus pressure
These symptoms are normal and may last up to 1–2 weeks.
Nasal Care
Begin saline rinses 2 hours after the procedure. You will be provided with a NeilMed rinse bottle but will need to get extra saline packets and distilled water from your grocery store or pharmacy. Perform 2–3 rinses the first day, then continue rinsing 4–5 times daily until follow-up. Do not blow your nose unless instructed
Remember, you will be provided initial supplies but will need to purchase additional saline.
Diet
- Do not eat or drink for 2 hours after the procedure (due to throat numbness)
- Start with a bland diet, then resume normal diet the next day
Medications
- Resume oral allergy medications immediately
- Resume nasal sprays on post-procedure day 2
Bleeding Instructions
- Light bleeding or blood-tinged drainage is normal for 3–6 days
- Change gauze as needed
If bleeding increases:
- Perform a saline rinse
- Clear clots from the nose by blowing the nose
- Use Afrin (oxymetazoline) – 4 sprays per nostril
- Apply firm pressure by pinching the nose for 20 minutes
Call the office if:
- Bleeding that comes out like a steady stream and does not stop after 15 minutes of pressure
Follow-Up
You should be seen in the office 1–2 weeks after the procedure, At this visit, your physician will:
- Examine your nasal passages
- Ensure proper healing
- Remove any residual debris if needed
- If you are unsure about your appointment, contact the surgery coordinator.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding not controlled with the steps above
- Double or blurred vision
- Eye pain or difficulty moving/closing your eyes
- Fever over 102°F not responding to Tylenol or Motrin
Emergency Room Guidance
Patients 16 and older: Centennial Medical Center Frisco
Patients under 16: Children’s Medical Center Plano
