Balloon Sinuplasty FAQs

Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open blocked sinus passages and improve airflow. Using a small, flexible balloon catheter, your doctor gently inflates the balloon to widen the sinus openings, allowing for better drainage and long-term symptom relief. Unlike traditional sinus surgery, there’s no cutting or removal of bone or tissue, leading to a faster recovery and minimal discomfort.

If you suffer from chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, facial pressure, post-nasal drip, or difficulty breathing through your nose—especially if medications and other treatments haven’t worked—you might be a good candidate. A consultation with our specialists at Easley ENT can determine if this procedure is right for you.

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, you might experience mild congestion or drainage, but this usually resolves within a few days.

Balloon Sinuplasty is an in-office procedure that typically takes about 60 minutes or less. Because it’s minimally invasive, there’s little downtime, and most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two.

Recovery is quick and easy for most patients. You may experience mild congestion, drainage, or a feeling of fullness in your sinuses for a short period. Many people resume normal activities within 24-48 hours, though full healing may take a few weeks.

Many insurance plans and Medicare provide coverage for Balloon Sinuplasty when it is medically necessary. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your benefits, and our team can assist with verifying your coverage.

The cost varies based on insurance coverage, provider fees, and location. Many insurance plans and Medicare cover the procedure if medically necessary. Contact your insurance provider or our office for a personalized estimate.

The relief from Balloon Sinuplasty is typically long-lasting, with many patients experiencing years of improved sinus function. Unlike temporary treatments, this procedure addresses the root cause of chronic sinus issues by expanding the sinus openings.

Balloon Sinuplasty is considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. Some patients experience temporary side effects such as mild swelling, nasal congestion, or minor bleeding. Severe complications are rare, and the procedure has been FDA-cleared since 2005.

Unlike traditional sinus surgery, which involves cutting or removing tissue, Balloon Sinuplasty is a tissue-sparing approach. It offers similar long-term relief with a faster recovery time, less discomfort, and lower risk of complications.

Yes! Depending on your specific condition, Balloon Sinuplasty may be performed alongside other sinus procedures or treatments, such as turbinate reduction or medication therapy, to further enhance your breathing and sinus health.

While Balloon Sinuplasty is primarily used to treat chronic sinus problems, many patients notice an improvement in their sleep and snoring after the procedure. By opening the nasal passages, Balloon Sinuplasty can improve airflow, making it easier to breathe at night. However, it is not a direct treatment for sleep apnea, so those with severe sleep issues should consult a specialist.

No, Balloon Sinuplasty does not alter the external shape of your nose. The procedure works inside the sinus passages to improve drainage and airflow without affecting your nasal structure. If you have concerns about nasal appearance or function, we can discuss additional treatment options during your consultation.

Most patients can resume normal activities quickly. However, we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and nasal irritants (like smoke or strong chemicals) for a few days to allow proper healing.