Balloon sinus dilation is a procedure similar to Balloon Sinuplastyâ„¢. It helps relieve the symptoms of chronic sinusitis and chronic rhinosinusitis, without cutting or removing any bone or tissue from the sinus area.
Balloon Sinus Dilation
Balloon sinus dilation (also called balloon sinuplasty) technology gives our physicians additional tools for endoscopic surgery. Balloon sinus dilation uses a catheter-based device designed to clear blocked sinuses, restore normal sinus drainage and function, and preserve normal anatomy and mucosal tissue.
We use advanced diagnostic tools to determine when it is appropriate to use the balloon sinus dilation. The procedure may not require general anesthesia. In many cases, the patient is able to resume normal activities within 24 hours.
Balloon Sinus Dilation Explained
The sinuses are air spaces behind the bones of your upper face, and lie between your eyes, forehead, nose, and cheeks. Your sinuses are lined with a mucus layer and cells that have cilia, which are tiny hairs, on the surface. These cilia help trap and push out pollutants and bacteria.
Your sinuses each have an opening that allows mucus to drain. When your sinuses are healthy, the drainage is working well. However, inflammation can occur in the lining if they aren't working efficiently. This is known as sinusitis. If your sinus openings become swollen shut, mucus cannot drain away. If this happens, it can lead to infection and inflammation of the sinuses.
In many cases, the ideal treatment to alleviate these symptoms at the source is through a minimally invasive procedure called Balloon Sinuplastyâ„¢ or balloon sinus dilation. At Del Rey MD, we conduct the procedure in one day, without tissue removal, bleeding or pain. The outcome is allowing you to breathe clearly again.
At our locations in Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and surrounding Southern California, 100% of our balloon sinus dilation procedures are performed in-office. Our team has conducted the highest number of balloon sinus dilation procedures in the state of California, which enables us to provide exceptional patient outcomes.
Patients can expect quick recovery times and minimal pain as a result of our experience and specialized approach. We are also in network with many insurance plans, which makes it easy for patients to receive the benefit of having the procedure covered by insurance. At Del Rey MD, we do not charge a facility fee, and there is no necessity to see a primary care doctor for a referral.
Why Would You Need Balloon Sinus Dilation?
When a patient comes to see the top-rated balloon sinus dilation team at Del Rey MD, there is an initial evaluation to see if they are a suitable candidate. Patients who benefit from Balloon Sinuplastyâ„¢ or balloon sinus dilation typically experience chronic sinus problems. More than 37 million people are diagnosed with sinus problems in the U.S, including chronic sinus conditions such as rhinitis and sinusitis.
Your sinuses play a vital role in filtering the air that you breathe. When they become blocked, they become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which ultimately can lead to infections.
If you experience recurrent sinus infections, chronic sinusitis, pressure headaches, post-nasal drip, or nasal congestion related to sinus disease, you may benefit from balloon sinus dilation.
Typically at Del Rey MD, we recommend having this procedure if you get sinus infections four to five times a years.
Patients who may benefit from balloon sinus dilation also include those looking to find relief from chronic sinus problems for more than 12 weeks.
If you have a chronic sinus problem, you may be experiencing symptoms including:
- Stuffy nose or runny nose
- Severe congestion
- Facial pressure or pain
- Loss of sense of smell
- Teeth pain
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Foul-smelling breath
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in your forehead.
It's also very common for sinusitis to be accompanied by a fever, sinus pressure, headache, and post-nasal drip. You may also have green or yellow nasal discharge.
Causes of sinusitis include:
- Viral and bacterial infections.
- Allergies.
- Nasal polyps.
- Deviated septum.
- Fungal infections.
- Environmental irritants such as pollution.
What is Rhinitis?
Rhinitis is when a reaction occurs that causes nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Most types of rhinitis are caused by inflammation and are associated with symptoms in the eyes, ears, or throat. If you have nasal discharge, this is usually a strong indication of rhinitis.
When you have balloon sinus dilation, it can release facial pressure, alleviate a stuffy or runny nose, and help eliminate congestion for good. It can also help regain loss of smell from such nasal conditions as well.
Types of Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is often triggered by allergens, such as pet dander, pollen, and dust mites. Non-allergic rhinitis is usually the result of smoke, pungent odors, and rapid temperature fluctuations.
Symptoms of Rhinitis include:
- Stuffy or runny nose.
- Postnasal drip.
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat.
When you have balloon sinus dilation, it can release facial pressure, alleviate a stuffy or runny nose, and help eliminate congestion for good. It can also help regain the loss of smell from such nasal conditions as well.
Balloon Sinus Dilation Procedure
During balloon sinus dilation, we use a nasal spray with an anesthetic agent to numb the nose. Cotton soaked in a topical agent is used to numb the nose and sinuses even further. Our sinus specialist places a tiny balloon in your nasal cavity and it is slowly inflated to restructure the blocked sinuses. Opening the airway with the balloon allows sinus drainage to return to normal during the entirely pain-free procedure. Following this, our specialist deflates and removes the balloon.
The duration of the procedure depends on your specific condition and anatomy. Typically, patients spend 1 1/2 - 2 hours at the practice for the entire treatment process. This allows time for pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment examination.
At Del Rey MD, we don’t use any packing during the procedure, which is usually what causes pain upon removal. Ultimately, this means recovery is faster and progresses much more easily for the patient.
When the balloon sinus dilation has been carried out, it's common for most patients to feel immediate relief. The procedure helps open the sinus cavity to unclog your sinuses. Your nasal cavity is cleaned and drained of any mucus buildup before the balloon is deflated and removed.
Usually, you can leave our office and return to work or school that day or the next.
Post Treatment Care for Balloon Sinus Dilation
As a top-rated balloon sinus dilation specialist, Dr. Sigari or one of his expert team, may recommend you stay away from strenuous activities (like heavy lifting) for a week after undergoing treatment.
After a brief healing period of a week or so, you should notice an improvement in your sinuses, and be able to return to your normal schedule and activities. You will also have freedom from the inconvenience of a dripping or congested nose, and facial pain.
It is essential for patients to keep the nose moist with a nasal salt-water spray. A corticosteroid nasal spray is recommended as it assists with reducing inflammation.
Having an office-based procedure performed under local anesthesia means patients don't have to deal with any adverse effects, costs, or risks usually associated with general anesthesia.
The majority of practices offering balloon sinuplasty insist patients return for a follow-up visit every week for four weeks after the procedure. However, at Del Rey MD we only suggest two follow-up appointments to check that everything has gone smoothly and recovery is progressing as expected.
At Del Rey MD, we have top-rated balloon sinus dilation specialists in Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and surrounding Southern California. Our expert providers regularly attend seminars and research courses to build in-depth knowledge on ear, nose and throat procedures.
What Are The Benefits of Balloon Sinus Dilation?
After your balloon sinus dilation procedure, you can enjoy outdoor activities without having to worry about the debilitating effects of nasal congestion and sinus pain. You may also experience an improvement in sleep quality, which results in more energy overall.
Having balloon sinus dilation can also result in a reduction of sinus headaches, less frequent infections, and you will experience a reduction in pressure in the nose.
Common Questions Associated with Balloon Sinus Dilation
Does a balloon sinus dilation require an incision?
No, there is no incision necessary for balloon sinus dilation. To perform the procedure, a small tube attached to a light is inserted into the sinus cavity and a balloon is gently inserted and inflated to open the airway.
Will I have to be sedated during the procedure?
The procedure is performed under mild sedation to keep you comfortable and relaxed.
Do I need to take any medications after my balloon sinus dilation?
You may be prescribed antibiotics after your procedure to prevent infection.
Is Balloon Sinuplastyâ„¢ covered by insurance?
Many insurance companies now recognize the overall benefit of balloon sinus dilation, and will cover the procedure when it is medically necessary. A member from Del Rey MD can work with you and your insurance provider to ascertain if the procedure is covered.
How long does balloon sinus dilation last?
Every case is different, but on average, balloon sinus dilation can provide relief for up to two years.
Is Balloon Dilatation Painful?
The procedure is usually well-tolerated by most patients. It can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and how extensive the dilatation needs to be.
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
Recovery from balloon sinus dilatation is shorter and faster when compared to traditional sinus surgery. Most patients resume normal activities a couple of days after the procedure. However, be sure to follow your post-op instructions and report any abnormal symptoms that develop. These include swelling, recurrent bleeding, ongoing nasal congestion, and pain.
What Are the Possible Complications of Balloon Sinus Dilatation?
Although the possibility of complications with balloon sinus dilatation is rare, some patients may experience a temporary exacerbation of symptoms, minor bleeding, and infection. That’s why it’s important to have balloon sinus dilatation performed by an experienced ENT.
Is Balloon Sinus Dilatation Right for Everyone?
While balloon sinus dilatation is an effective treatment for chronic or recurrent sinusitis, it may not be right for all patients. Candidacy depends on a variety of factors, including the patient’s anatomy, the severity of the condition, overall health, and personal treatment preferences.
Schedule a Balloon Sinus Dilation Consultation with Del Rey MD, the Top Reviewed ENT Experts in Los Angeles
If you're experiencing chronic sinus problems, you may be a candidate for balloon sinus dilation. Schedule a consultation with our ENT specialists at Del Rey MD to discuss what specific treatment is appropriate for your condition. Del Rey MD has practice locations in Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and surrounding Southern California.