Balloon Sinuplasty: A Minimally Invasive Fix for Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is a condition that causes your sinuses to remain inflamed and blocked for months, often despite medication. People living with chronic sinusitis may deal with constant facial pressure, congestion, thick nasal drainage, headaches, postnasal drip, and a reduced sense of smell. Breathing through the nose can also feel challenging.

Understandably, anyone living with chronic sinusitis would want a long-term fix. Medications may help temporarily, but for many people, symptoms keep recurring. 

Surgery is recommended at this stage, and that word alone can feel intimidating. However, advances in technology have enabled minimally invasive treatments for chronic sinusitis, such as balloon sinuplasty.

Balloon sinuplasty can be especially effective for certain cases of chronic sinusitis, but it isn’t right for everyone. Determining whether it’s the right solution starts with an accurate diagnosis and a careful evaluation by an experienced ENT specialist such as Mani Zadeh, MD. 

In this blog, he explains what balloon sinuplasty is, how it works, and when it may be a good option for treating chronic sinusitis.

What is chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is diagnosed when sinus inflammation lasts for at least 12 weeks, even with treatment. Unlike a short-term sinus infection, the inflammation doesn’t clear completely. The sinus openings stay narrowed or blocked, making it hard for mucus to drain properly.

When drainage is poor, pressure builds, bacteria can grow, and symptoms can linger. This persistent cycle is what makes chronic sinusitis so frustrating and difficult to manage.

Why medications don’t work long-term

Many people with chronic sinusitis try nasal sprays, antibiotics, antihistamines, or steroids. These treatments can reduce inflammation and help manage flare-ups, but they don’t always address the underlying blockage in your sinus pathways. If the sinus openings remain narrow, symptoms often return once you stop your medication. 

What is balloon sinuplasty?

Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked sinus passages. Instead of cutting or removing tissue, a small balloon is guided into your sinus opening and gently inflated. This process widens the passage, allowing mucus to drain more easily and helping reduce pressure and inflammation.

Once the balloon is removed, the sinus remains open, and the natural structure of your sinus is preserved.

Why balloon sinuplasty is considered minimally invasive

Traditional sinus surgery often involves removing tissue or bone. Balloon sinuplasty works differently. It reshapes and opens the sinus passages without cutting. Because of this, the procedure typically involves less discomfort, minimal bleeding, and a quicker recovery. Many people have the procedure done in the office and go home the same day.

What the procedure and recovery are typically like

Balloon sinuplasty is usually quick. Most people tolerate it well and can return home the same day. Some pressure or congestion afterward is normal, but recovery is generally straightforward. As your sinuses heal and drainage improves, many people notice fewer infections, less pressure, and better nasal breathing.

Who may benefit from balloon sinuplasty

Balloon sinuplasty is often a good option for people with chronic sinusitis caused by blocked or narrowed sinus openings. It’s particularly useful when inflammation and poor drainage are the main issues. 

However, this procedure is not effective for all cases of chronic sinusitis. Some people may have nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or other structural issues that require different treatment, which is why proper evaluation is essential.

Chronic sinusitis can affect your comfort, sleep, and overall well-being. Minimally invasive options like balloon sinuplasty have changed how this condition can be treated, but the right treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis.

Balloon sinuplasty offers a minimally invasive option for treating certain cases of chronic sinusitis, with less downtime and a quicker recovery than traditional surgery. For the right person, it can provide significant relief.

If you’re struggling with chronic sinusitis, book a consultation with Dr. Zadeh today for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.