When is balloon sinuplasty appropriate?
As a board-certified otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon), I often see patients who have struggled for months or even years with chronic sinus pressure, facial pain, and congestion. When medications no longer bring relief, a simple, minimally invasive procedure called balloon sinuplasty can often help.
What Is Balloon Sinuplasty?
Balloon sinuplasty is a safe, gentle procedure that opens blocked sinus passages and restores normal drainage — without removing bone or tissue. Using a thin, flexible balloon catheter, I carefully guide the device into the natural sinus openings and gently inflate it to widen the passageway. This allows air and mucus to flow freely again, relieving pressure and congestion.
Key Benefits
Minimally invasive
Tissue-sparing (no cutting or removal of bone)
Quick recovery (learn more about recovery here)
Significant, lasting symptom relief
Where and How the Procedure Is Performed
Balloon sinuplasty can often be performed right in the office, without the need for general anesthesia. Most patients are comfortable with local anesthesia and light sedation, and the entire procedure typically takes less than one hour.
After the procedure, most people return to normal activities within a day or two — much faster than traditional sinus surgery.
When Balloon Sinuplasty May be Appropriate
You may be a good candidate for balloon sinuplasty if you experience:
Chronic sinusitis lasting 12 weeks or longer
Recurrent sinus infections (three or more per year)
Facial pressure or pain due to sinusitis that doesn’t resolve with medication
Sinus infections that don’t improve with medical treatment
Sinus-related headaches or fatigue
This procedure is ideal for patients whose symptoms persist despite antibiotics, nasal sprays, and allergy treatments. It can also be performed alongside other procedures, such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction, for a more complete solution.
When Balloon Sinuplasty Is Not Appropriate
While balloon sinuplasty is an excellent option for many people, it’s not suitable for every case.
It may not be appropriate if you have:
Severe sinus disease with extensive polyps or infection
Sinus tumors or cysts
Structural abnormalities requiring traditional sinus surgery
Active infection that has not yet been treated with appropriate medications
In those cases, other medical or surgical approaches may be more effective.
What to Expect After Balloon Sinuplasty
Most patients notice improvement within just a few days. Theye experience easier breathing, less facial pressure, and fewer sinus infections. Because there’s no cutting or removal of tissue, recovery is usually quick and comfortable, and the results are long-lasting. Click here to learn more.
I am currently accepting new patients and would be glad to help determine whether balloon sinuplasty is the right option for you. In my practice, I offer thoughtful, evidence-based care and minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve sinus symptoms and help you breathe better every day.
Do you need to schedule an appointment to discuss whether balloon sinuplasty is right for you? Contact my office, located in Scottsdale, AZ.
Call my office: (480) 273-8448
Schedule an appointment: Click here